This Easy Grilled Shrimp Bowl is a treat! Juicy shrimp are paired with crisp asparagus and a tasty garlic sauce to make your taste buds dance. It’s fresh, healthy, and oh-so-delicious!
I love how simple the whole thing is to whip up! Just grill the shrimp and asparagus, toss them in the garlic sauce, and enjoy! Perfect for a quick weeknight meal that feels special.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are perfect for grilling because they cook quickly and have a nice texture. If you’re looking for a substitute, scallops or firm fish like salmon also work great. Just adjust cooking times accordingly!
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus is crunchy and adds a nice green touch. If asparagus isn’t in season, feel free to swap with green beans or zucchini for a delicious alternative.
Mayonnaise and Greek Yogurt: This creamy sauce gets its richness from both mayo and yogurt. You can use all mayo or all yogurt if you prefer. For a lighter option, try low-fat versions or even silken tofu blended until smooth.
Smoked Paprika: This spice adds a nice depth of flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or even some cumin can enhance the dish, just note that the flavor will change a bit.
How Can I Get Perfectly Grilled Shrimp?
Grilling shrimp can be tricky if you want to avoid overcooking! Here’s how to nail it every time:
- Make sure the grill is hot before adding the shrimp. This helps sear them quickly.
- Cook each side for about 2-3 minutes. Watch for the shrimp to turn pink and opaque.
- Using skewers (if wooden, soak them first) makes flipping easy and keeps shrimp together.
- Don’t overcrowd the grill! This ensures even cooking and nice char marks.
With these tips, you’ll enjoy perfectly grilled shrimp every time!
Easy Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Asparagus and Garlic Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bowl:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 bunch fresh asparagus, trimmed
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Garlic Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 8-10 minutes to grill, making the total time approximately 20 minutes. Perfect for a quick and delightful weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. This helps get those beautiful grill marks on your shrimp and asparagus.
2. Prepare the Asparagus:
Toss the trimmed asparagus with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Make sure they are well coated. Set them aside while you prep the shrimp.
3. Season the Shrimp:
In a bowl, gently toss your shrimp with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and sprinkle in salt and pepper. Make sure each shrimp is seasoned well, but don’t go overboard!
4. Make the Garlic Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, minced garlic, smoked paprika, lemon juice, cayenne pepper (if you like a little kick), and a pinch of salt. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Set it aside for later.
5. Grill the Asparagus:
Now it’s time for the asparagus! Grill them for about 3-4 minutes per side. You want them to be tender and slightly charred. Once cooked, remove them from the grill and arrange in serving bowls as the base.
6. Grill the Shrimp:
Next, place the shrimp on the grill. They will cook quickly, about 2-3 minutes per side until they turn opaque and get nice grill marks. Be careful not to overcook them!
7. Assemble the Bowl:
Once the shrimp are done, place them on top of the grilled asparagus in each bowl.
8. Add the Garlic Sauce:
Spoon the garlic sauce generously over the shrimp and asparagus. This adds a delicious flavor that ties everything together!
9. Garnish and Serve:
Finish your dish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy your fresh, flavorful grilled shrimp bowl!
FAQ for Easy Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Asparagus and Garlic Sauce
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. To do this, place the shrimp in a bowl of cold water for about 15-20 minutes, or overnight in the fridge for best results. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture before seasoning.
What If I Don’t Have Greek Yogurt?
No worries! If you don’t have Greek yogurt, you can substitute it with sour cream or even plain regular yogurt. For a lighter version, try using low-fat yogurt or blending silken tofu until smooth. Adjust the seasoning in the sauce as needed.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When reheating, do so gently in the microwave or on the stove to avoid overcooking the shrimp. Add a little splash of water or broth to help retain moisture!
Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Bowl?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative and add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes. Just make sure to adjust the grilling time based on the vegetable; some may need less or more time than asparagus!
