This Healthy Grilled Shrimp Bowl is packed with tasty shrimp, fresh asparagus, and a yummy garlic sauce. It’s light yet filling, perfect for lunch or dinner!
Honestly, who can resist juicy shrimp and crisp asparagus? I like to enjoy mine with some brown rice for extra flavor. It’s quick to make, and your taste buds will thank you!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are perfect for this dish since they’re juicy and grill nicely. If you’re allergic or avoiding shrimp, you can substitute with grilled chicken or tofu for a different but equally satisfying flavor.
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus gives a nice crunch and vibrant color. You can swap it for green beans or zucchini if that’s what you have on hand. Both options work well and taste great!
Olive oil: This is used for grilling and in the garlic sauce. If you want a different flavor, you can use avocado oil or melted coconut oil instead. Both are healthy options!
Greek yogurt: I love using Greek yogurt for the sauce because it’s creamy and high in protein. If you’re dairy-free, a coconut yogurt or nut-based yogurt can be a great alternative.
How Do I Grill Shrimp Perfectly?
Grilling shrimp may seem tricky, but it’s actually pretty simple! Here are some tips to avoid overcooking and get that perfect char:
- Make sure the shrimp are dry before seasoning. This helps them sear instead of steam.
- Heat your grill to medium-high. A hot grill is key for getting nice grill marks and flavor.
- Grill shrimp for about 2-3 minutes per side. When they turn pink and opaque, they’re done!
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
And remember, shrimp cook quickly, so keep an eye on them for the best results!
Healthy 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
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Garlic Sauce:
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (or plain low-fat 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 and healthy grilled shrimp bowl takes about 10-15 minutes to prep and another 10 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at around 25-30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
Start by patting the shrimp dry with paper towels. This helps them grill nicely without steaming. Next, toss the shrimp in 1 tablespoon of olive oil and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Set them aside while you prepare the asparagus and sauce.
2. Prepare the Asparagus:
In a bowl, toss the trimmed asparagus with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Make sure the asparagus is evenly coated for the best flavor when grilling.
3. Make the Garlic Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning to your liking. Set this sauce aside for flavoring your bowl later.
4. Grill the Asparagus:
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once it’s ready, place the asparagus on the grill. Grill for about 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally until they are tender and have nice grill marks. Remove them from the grill and set aside in your serving bowls.
5. Grill the Shrimp:
Now, it’s time to grill the shrimp! Place the shrimp on the hot grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are opaque and have beautiful grill marks. Be careful not to overcook them! Once done, remove them from the heat.
6. Assemble Bowls:
Now that everything is grilled and ready, arrange the grilled shrimp over the asparagus in each serving bowl. Drizzle generously with the garlic sauce you made earlier.
7. Garnish:
Finish off by sprinkling chopped fresh parsley over the top for a lovely touch.
8. Serve Immediately:
Your healthy grilled shrimp bowl is ready! Serve it immediately and enjoy this vibrant, flavorful dish. If you want, add a side of brown rice or quinoa for an extra filling meal. Bon appétit!
FAQ for Healthy Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Asparagus and Garlic Sauce
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before using them. You can thaw them overnight in the fridge or place them in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for about 30 minutes. Pat them dry before seasoning and grilling.
What Can I Substitute for Asparagus?
If asparagus isn’t available, feel free to use green beans or zucchini instead. Both options grill nicely and add a great crunch to your bowl. Just adjust the grilling time as needed; green beans may take a minute longer to become tender.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the shrimp and asparagus in the microwave, or in a skillet over medium heat to maintain the textures.
Can I Make the Garlic Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the garlic sauce a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before serving as the ingredients may settle. It can also be used as a dip for veggies or a spread for sandwiches!
