This Healthy Grilled Shrimp Bowl is a colorful and fresh dish that packs a punch! Juicy grilled shrimp, crisp veggies, and a creamy garlic sauce come together for a tasty treat.
If you think healthy meals can’t be delicious, think again! I love how quick this bowl is to make—perfect for busy nights when I want something yummy without the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are ideal for grilling, but feel free to use smaller varieties if that’s what you have. You can also swap shrimp for chicken or firm tofu for a different protein option.
Asparagus: Besides asparagus, broccoli or bell peppers would work well. If seasonal veggies are nearby, use those for extra freshness!
Greek Yogurt: Plain Greek yogurt gives a nice creaminess to the sauce. If you prefer a dairy-free option, use plain coconut yogurt or even mashed avocado for a creamy texture.
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds great flavor and helps the shrimp grill nicely. You can substitute it with avocado oil if you want a higher smoke point.
How Do I Grill Shrimp Perfectly?
Grilling shrimp can be tricky; they cook quickly and can become rubbery. Here’s how to get them just right:
- Make sure your grill or grill pan is hot before adding shrimp.
- Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side. When they turn pink and opaque, they’re done.
- A good tip is to soak wooden skewers in water before threading shrimp on them. This prevents burning and makes flipping easier!
Grilling is all about timing, so watch closely for that beautiful pink color. Enjoy your healthy bowl with confidence!
Healthy Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp and Asparagus:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for asparagus)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious bowl takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 10 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’ll need around 20 minutes to whip up this healthy meal. Perfect for a quick dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Grill:
First, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. It’s important that it’s really hot so you can get those lovely grill marks!
2. Seasoning the Shrimp:
In a mixing bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure all the shrimp are well coated with the spices.
3. Preparing the Asparagus:
Take your trimmed asparagus and toss it with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Season with a little salt and pepper, ensuring each piece is evenly seasoned.
4. Grilling the Asparagus:
Once your grill is hot, place the asparagus on it. Grill the asparagus for about 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally until they are tender and have nice grill marks. Then, remove them from the grill and set aside.
5. Grilling the Shrimp:
Now it’s time for the shrimp! Place them on the grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side. You’ll know they’re done when they turn pink and opaque. Remove the grilled shrimp from the grill.
6. Making the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until it’s nice and creamy.
7. Assembling the Bowl:
To build your bowl, start with a base of grilled asparagus. Then, layer the grilled shrimp on top.
8. Adding the Sauce:
Drizzle the creamy garlic sauce generously over the shrimp and asparagus. Don’t be shy with the sauce—it adds so much flavor!
9. Finishing Touch:
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Enjoy this flavorful, healthy bowl packed with protein and greens, all elevated by a rich, garlicky sauce!
FAQ for Healthy Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the shrimp before seasoning and grilling them. To thaw, place them in the fridge overnight or run them under cold water in a sealed bag for quicker results.
What Can I Substitute for the Greek Yogurt in the Sauce?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can use plain coconut yogurt or mashed avocado instead of Greek yogurt for a creamy texture. Both will give the sauce a unique twist!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the shrimp and prepare the sauce in advance. Just grill the shrimp and asparagus right before serving to ensure they stay fresh and vibrant.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm the shrimp and asparagus on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until heated through, but avoid overcooking to keep the shrimp tender.