This Easy Grilled Shrimp Bowl is a tasty blend of juicy shrimp, fresh asparagus, and a zesty garlic sauce. It’s light, healthy, and packed with flavor every bite!
You can’t go wrong with shrimp that’s grilled to perfection! I love how quick this dish comes together—perfect for busy evenings when I still want something yummy. 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are perfect for this recipe as they grill quickly and don’t dry out. If you can’t find fresh, frozen shrimp works too—just thaw them beforehand. You can also swap shrimp for chicken or tofu for a different protein.
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus adds a nice crunch. If you’re in a pinch, green beans or zucchini would work as good alternatives. Always trim the ends to remove the tough parts.
Olive oil: It’s great for grilling, but you can substitute with avocado oil for a higher smoke point. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using cooking spray.
Sour cream/Greek yogurt: Either gives this dish a creaminess. Greek yogurt is a healthier choice, while sour cream offers a tang. For a dairy-free alternative, try cashew cream or coconut yogurt.
Spices: Smoked paprika adds depth. If you don’t have it, a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder can add heat. Adjust based on your preference!
How Do I Grill Shrimp and Asparagus Perfectly?
Grilling shrimp and asparagus might seem tricky, but it’s quite straightforward with these tips! Start with preheating the grill to ensure a good char.
- For the asparagus, cook it first. It takes longer than shrimp. Grill until tender and slightly charred—about 3-4 minutes.
- Grill the shrimp just until they’re pink and opaque. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes per side. Avoid overcooking as they can become rubbery.
- Make sure to keep an eye on them while grilling! It’s easy for shrimp to cook faster than you expect.
Enjoy this quick and healthy meal any night of the week! It’s really simple with just a little practice.
Easy Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Asparagus and Garlic Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp Bowl:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 bunch fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
For the Garlic Sauce:
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Optional: cooked rice or quinoa to serve as a base
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and approximately 8 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’ll need about 18 minutes to create this scrumptious grilled shrimp bowl!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Grill:
Start by preheating your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. This is key to getting those lovely grill marks and a perfect char!
2. Prepare the Shrimp and Asparagus:
In a medium bowl, toss the shrimp and asparagus with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Season them with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if you want to add a bit of a smoky flavor. Mix them well so everything is coated.
3. Grill the Asparagus:
Place the asparagus on the grill first. Grill them for about 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally, until they become tender and have nice grill marks. Once done, remove them from the grill and keep them warm.
4. Grill the Shrimp:
Now, grill the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side. Look for them to turn pink and opaque—this means they’re perfectly cooked! Once they’re ready, take them off the grill.
5. Make the Garlic Sauce:
While the shrimp are grilling, whisk together the sour cream (or Greek yogurt), minced garlic, lemon juice, dried oregano, a pinch of salt, and the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a small bowl. Mix until everything is well combined and smooth.
6. Assemble Your Bowl:
Grab a bowl and start by placing the grilled asparagus at the bottom. Next, add the grilled shrimp on top. Drizzle generously with your homemade garlic sauce.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Finish your bowl with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for color and flavor. Serve immediately over a bed of cooked rice or quinoa if you want a more substantial meal.
Enjoy your fresh, flavorful grilled shrimp bowl with vibrant asparagus and creamy garlic sauce! This dish is sure to impress. 🌟
FAQ for Easy Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Asparagus and Garlic Sauce
Can I Use Different Vegetables?
Absolutely! While asparagus is delicious, you can also use zucchini, bell peppers, or snap peas. Just keep the cooking time in mind, as some veggies may cook faster or slower than asparagus.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Smoked Paprika?
If you don’t have smoked paprika, you can skip it or substitute with regular paprika for a milder flavor. A pinch of cayenne pepper can also add some heat if you like a little spice!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove over low heat to avoid overcooking the shrimp.
Can I Meal Prep This Shrimp Bowl?
Yes, you can prepare the shrimp and asparagus in advance and store them separately in the fridge. Grill them fresh just before serving for the best flavor. The garlic sauce can also be made ahead and stored in the fridge!