This Grilled Shrimp Bowl is a tasty mix of fresh shrimp, crunchy asparagus, and a rich creamy garlic sauce. It’s colorful and packed with flavor, making dinner feel special!
I love how quick it comes together. Just grill the shrimp and asparagus, whip up the sauce, and you have a delicious meal ready in no time! Perfect for impressing friends or just treating yourself. 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are perfect for this bowl, but feel free to use medium shrimp or even scallops. If you’re looking for a meatless option, try grilled tofu or scrambled eggs!
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus adds a nice crunch. If it’s out of season, green beans or zucchini are great alternatives. You can even use pre-cooked frozen veggies to save time.
Olive Oil: This is key for grilling. You can swap it with avocado oil or melted butter if you prefer. Butter gives a nice flavor, though it can burn more easily.
Creamy Sauce: Mayonnaise gives a rich texture, but Greek yogurt is a healthier choice. You can also make it vegan by using vegan mayo. Add a little honey or maple syrup for sweetness!
How Do I Grill Shrimp and Asparagus Without Overcooking?
Grilling can be tricky, especially with shrimp and asparagus, which cook quickly. Here’s what you can do:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This helps sear the shrimp and asparagus without drying them out.
- Grill asparagus first as it usually takes a bit longer. Aim for 3-4 minutes on each side until charred but still crisp.
- For shrimp, grill them for about 2-3 minutes on each side. They’ll turn pink and opaque when done—watch closely to avoid overcooking.
- If using a grill pan, toss everything gently with tongs instead of stabbing with a fork, which can cause juices to escape, drying out the food.
Following these tips will help you achieve perfectly grilled shrimp and asparagus every time!
Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Asparagus and Creamy Garlic Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bowl:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 lb (450g) fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 cup cooked rice or quinoa (for serving)
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Grilled Shrimp Bowl will take about 20 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a lazy weekend!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
In a medium bowl, toss the shrimp with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add a pinch of salt, freshly ground black pepper, and smoked paprika if you like a hint of smokiness. Set the seasoned shrimp aside for a moment while you prep the asparagus.
2. Prepare the Asparagus:
In a separate bowl, toss the asparagus pieces with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and add a pinch of salt and pepper. This will season the asparagus well for grilling!
3. Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise or Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and parsley if using. Taste it and add salt and pepper as needed. Keep the sauce in the fridge until you’re ready to use it. This sauce will add a delicious creamy element to your bowl!
4. Grill the Shrimp and Asparagus:
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the asparagus pieces and grill for about 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally. They should be tender and have nice grill marks. Then, add the shrimp to the grill, cooking them for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are fully cooked.
5. Assemble the Bowl:
In serving bowls, start with a base of cooked rice or quinoa. Pile on the grilled asparagus and shrimp. This will create a beautiful and hearty meal!
6. Add the Sauce:
Generously drizzle the creamy garlic sauce over the top of the shrimp and asparagus. You can add as much or as little as you’d like, depending on your preference for richness!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, garnish your dish with extra parsley or lemon wedges if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy your vibrant, flavorful Grilled Shrimp Bowl!
FAQs for Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Asparagus and Creamy Garlic Sauce
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. The best way to thaw shrimp is by placing them in the fridge overnight or quickly in a sealed bag submerged in cold water for about 15-20 minutes.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
Feel free to mix in other vegetables! Bell peppers, zucchini, or snap peas are great options. Just be sure to cut them to a similar size as the asparagus for even cooking.
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 stovetop, but be careful not to overcook the shrimp again.
Can I Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the creamy garlic sauce up to 2 days ahead. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve, and give it a good stir before using it to refresh the flavor.
