This Healthy Grilled Shrimp Bowl is a tasty mix of grilled shrimp, fresh veggies, and a smooth garlic sauce that ties everything together. It’s a colorful, feel-good meal!
Honestly, who can resist that creamy garlic goodness? I like to add extra veggies for crunch and enjoy this bowl anytime I need a light and satisfying dish. It’s like a hug in a bowl! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are perfect for grilling. If you’re looking for a substitute, you can use chicken or firm tofu for a vegetarian option. Just remember that cooking times will differ!
Olive Oil: This not only adds flavor but also helps with grilling. If you don’t have olive oil, avocado oil works well too. Both are great for high-heat cooking.
Smoked Paprika: This gives a nice smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or chili powder can work in a pinch — just adjust the amount according to your taste.
Greek Yogurt: The base of the creamy sauce. You can swap it for sour cream or even plant-based yogurt if you’re looking for a dairy-free option!
Asparagus: While this recipe calls for asparagus, you could easily replace it with zucchini, bell peppers, or green beans if you prefer.
How Do I Make Sure My Shrimp Aren’t Overcooked?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky since they cook very quickly! Here are some tips:
- Make sure your grill is hot before adding the shrimp; this helps them cook evenly.
- Keep an eye on their color! Shrimp change from transparent to pink when they’re done, which usually takes just 2-3 minutes per side.
- Remove them from heat once they are opaque. If they’re curling tightly, they might be overcooked.
Taking these steps will help you serve juicy, tender shrimp every time!
Healthy Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Grilled Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
For the Asparagus:
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (plain, unsweetened)
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced or grated
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes from start to finish, including prep and cooking time. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy meal prep option!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
In a medium bowl, toss together your shrimp, olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if you like a little heat), salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Let this marinate for about 10-15 minutes as you work on the asparagus. This really helps the flavors soak in!
2. Prepare the Asparagus:
While the shrimp is marinating, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Toss the trimmed asparagus with a tablespoon of olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill the asparagus for around 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally until they’re tender and have nice grill marks. Once done, set them aside on a plate.
3. Grill the Shrimp:
Now it’s time to grill the shrimp! Place them on the grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn a beautiful pink and opaque color. Keep an eye on them because shrimp cook really fast. You don’t want to overdo it!
4. Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk until it’s creamy and smooth. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed — you want it just right!
5. Assemble the Bowls:
To serve, start by dividing your grilled asparagus among the bowls. Top the asparagus with the grilled shrimp, and then drizzle that delicious creamy garlic sauce generously on top. It’s where the magic happens!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Finish it off with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately, and enjoy every bite of this healthy and vibrant shrimp bowl!
Enjoy this flavorful and healthy shrimp bowl — a delightful balance of smoky, tangy, and creamy flavors!
FAQ for Healthy Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thoroughly thaw the shrimp first. You can do this by placing them in the fridge overnight or quickly thawing them in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water. Pat them dry before marinating to prevent excess moisture.
What Can I Substitute for Asparagus?
If asparagus isn’t your thing, feel free to swap it for other vegetables! Zucchini, bell peppers, or green beans are great alternatives that also grill well and provide delicious flavors.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, you can warm the shrimp in a skillet over low heat or use the microwave. Just be careful not to overheat to keep them tender!
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can definitely make the creamy garlic sauce ahead! Prepare it up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator in a sealed container. Just give it a good stir before using, as it may thicken slightly when chilled.
