Grilled Shrimp Bowl With Asparagus and Creamy Garlic Sauce

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Shrimp: Large shrimp are ideal for grilling. If you can’t find fresh, frozen shrimp works too—just thaw them before marinating. If you’re not a shrimp fan, feel free to substitute with chicken or firm tofu for a delicious alternative.

Asparagus: Fresh asparagus adds a nice crunch. If it’s out of season, use green beans or zucchini instead. Both will grill nicely and complement the dish.

Greek Yogurt: This gives creaminess to the sauce. If you’re watching calories, non-fat Greek yogurt is a great option. You can also use plain dairy-free yogurt if you want a vegan version of the sauce.

Smoked Paprika: It offers a unique flavor, but if you don’t have it, regular paprika or even chili powder can substitute. Just be mindful that chili powder will add heat!

How Do You Grill Shrimp to Perfection?

Grilling shrimp might seem tricky, but it’s easy once you know the basics! The key is to keep an eye on them so they don’t overcook. Here’s how:

• Ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat. This helps sear the shrimp quickly.
• Marinate the shrimp for only 10-15 minutes to lock in flavor without making them mushy.
• Use skewers to keep them together. If using wooden skewers, soak them first to prevent burning.
• Grill for about 2-3 minutes on each side. Shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque.

Remember, shrimp cook fast, so stay close to the grill! Enjoy your perfectly grilled shrimp.

Grilled Shrimp Bowl With Asparagus and Creamy Garlic Sauce

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Shrimp and Asparagus:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Juice of 1/2 lemon

For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:

• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

For Serving:

• 2 cups cooked rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice
• Lemon wedges for garnish
• Fresh chopped parsley or chives (optional)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This delicious grilled shrimp bowl will take about 30 minutes total. You’ll spend around 15 minutes marinating and prepping, and the rest is for grilling and assembling the dish. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat the Grill:

Get your grill or grill pan ready by preheating it to medium-high heat. A hot grill gives the best sear to your shrimp!

2. Marinate the Shrimp:

In a bowl, combine the shrimp with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and lemon juice. Mix it well, then let it sit for about 10-15 minutes to soak up all those tasty flavors.

3. Prepare the Asparagus:

While the shrimp is marinating, toss the asparagus pieces in another bowl with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and a pinch of salt and pepper. Give it a good mix!

4. Skewer the Shrimp:

If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent burning. Then, thread the marinated shrimp onto the skewers for easy grilling.

5. Grill the Asparagus:

Place the asparagus on the grill first. Grill for about 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally until they are tender and have nice char marks. Once done, remove from the grill and set aside.

6. Grill the Shrimp:

Next, grill the shrimp skewers for about 2-3 minutes on each side. They’re ready when they turn pink and opaque. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking!

7. Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce:

In a small bowl, mix together Greek yogurt (or sour cream), mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Taste it and adjust if needed. If you like, toss in some chopped parsley for extra flavor!

8. Assemble the Bowls:

To put everything together, start with a base of cooked rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice in each serving bowl. Top it off with the grilled asparagus and shrimp.

9. Drizzle the Sauce:

Generously drizzle the creamy garlic sauce over the shrimp and asparagus. It’s the perfect finishing touch!

10. Garnish and Serve:

For a little extra flair, garnish with fresh parsley or chives and serve with lemon wedges for a burst of freshness. Enjoy your grilled shrimp bowl right away!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?

Yes, absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before marinating. You can thaw them overnight in the fridge or quickly under cold running water. Pat them dry with paper towels to avoid excess moisture.

What Can I Substitute for Asparagus?

If asparagus isn’t available, you can use green beans, zucchini, or even bell peppers. Each will work well on the grill and add a different yet delicious flavor to the bowl!

How Should I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm the shrimp and asparagus gently in the microwave or on the stovetop. Keep in mind that the sauce should be stored separately and added fresh before serving.

Can I Prep This Bowl Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can marinate the shrimp and prepare the asparagus and sauce ahead of time. Just grill right before serving for the best flavor and texture. You can also cook the rice or quinoa in advance and reheat when ready to put the bowl together.