This Healthy Grilled Shrimp Bowl is packed with tasty flavors and fresh ingredients! Juicy grilled shrimp are served over a bed of rice and topped with a creamy garlic sauce that makes each bite extra special.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Use large shrimp for the best texture. If you’re allergic or don’t like shrimp, try grilled chicken or tofu instead; they both work well with this dish.
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus adds a lovely crunch and flavor. If you can’t find it, zucchini or bell peppers are great alternatives. Just slice them up and grill them similarly.
Olive oil: I love using olive oil for its taste and health benefits. You can swap it with avocado oil if you prefer a different flavor or for a higher smoke point.
Greek yogurt: This gives the sauce its creaminess and tang. If you’re dairy-free, use coconut yogurt or a nut-based yogurt instead for a similar consistency.
How Do You Grill Shrimp Perfectly?
Grilling shrimp can be tricky, but here’s how to get it just right. Shrimp cook quickly, and overcooking can make them rubbery, so timing is key!
- Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. A hot grill will give you nice char marks.
- Toss shrimp with olive oil and spices; this helps flavor and prevents sticking.
- Place shrimp on the grill and cook for only 2-3 minutes on each side. Look for them to turn pink and opaque—this is your sign they’re done!
Keep an eye on them while grilling, as they can cook fast! Enjoy your perfectly grilled shrimp in your delicious bowl!
How to Make a Healthy Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp Bowl:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
- 1 cup cooked brown rice or cauliflower rice (optional base)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (or sour cream for richer flavor)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This complete meal will take about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients, and grilling will take about 15 to 20 minutes. Allow for a few moments to mix the sauce and assemble the bowl. Quick, delicious, and healthy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. A properly heated grill ensures that your shrimp and asparagus get those lovely char marks!
2. Season the Shrimp:
In a medium bowl, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Make sure every shrimp is well-coated with the seasoning; this will give them tons of flavor.
3. Prepare the Asparagus:
Next, take your asparagus and toss it with a splash of olive oil along with a sprinkle of salt and pepper. This will ensure they grill nicely. Set aside while the grill heats up.
4. Grill the Shrimp:
Place the shrimp on the grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re ready when they turn pink and are slightly charred. Once cooked, remove them from the grill and let them rest.
5. Grill the Asparagus:
Now, put the asparagus on the grill. Cook for approximately 4-5 minutes, turning them occasionally until they’re tender and have beautiful grill marks. Remove them once done!
6. Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well until smooth. This sauce adds a creamy tangy flavor to the bowl!
7. Assemble Your Bowl:
To create your shrimp bowl, start with a layer of cooked brown rice or cauliflower rice at the bottom. Arrange the grilled asparagus on top, then add the grilled shrimp.
8. Drizzle with Sauce:
Generously drizzle your creamy garlic sauce over the shrimp and asparagus. Don’t be shy—it makes everything taste even better!
9. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top for a lovely color contrast and a fresh taste. Now your bowl is ready to enjoy!
Serve immediately and relish in this colorful and healthy shrimp bowl. Perfect for any meal of the day!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before using. You can thaw them in the fridge overnight or quickly under cold running water. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture before seasoning.
Can I Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the creamy garlic sauce a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before serving to ensure it’s smooth and creamy again!
What Can I Substitute for Asparagus?
If asparagus isn’t your thing or isn’t in season, you can substitute it with zucchini, bell peppers, or broccoli. Simply cut them into even pieces and grill as instructed for a delicious alternative!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm the shrimp and veggies in the microwave or on the stove over low heat. Add a splash of water to prevent drying out!
