This Easy Grilled Shrimp Bowl is packed with juicy shrimp, vibrant asparagus, and a tasty garlic sauce that brings everything together. It’s light, fresh, and makes dinner feel special!
I love how quick and simple this meal is—all it takes is a little grilling magic. Perfect for when you want something delicious without spending all day in the kitchen! 🍤🥦
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are ideal for this dish as they grill quickly and stay juicy. If you can’t find fresh shrimp, frozen shrimp work well too. Just make sure to thaw and pat them dry before seasoning.
Asparagus: Asparagus adds a nice crunch and is easy to grill. You can substitute it with green beans or zucchini if you’re in the mood for something different or if asparagus isn’t available.
Smoked Paprika: This adds a lovely smoky flavor. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika will do, but you can also try a bit of cayenne for a kick!
Garlic Sauce: Mayonnaise serves as the creamy base here, but Greek yogurt or sour cream can be great alternatives if you want something lighter. You can adjust the garlic for milder or stronger flavor.
How Do You Grill Perfectly Tender Shrimp?
Grilling shrimp might seem tricky, but it’s quick and easy. The key is to preheat your grill so it’s nice and hot, allowing the shrimp to cook quickly without becoming rubbery. Here’s a helpful breakdown:
- Marinate shrimp for at least 15 minutes to absorb flavor.
- Skewer them on metal or soaked wooden skewers for easier handling.
- Grill on medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side until they’re pink and opaque.
- Avoid overcooking—remove them from the grill as soon as they turn pink.
With a little attention, you’ll have perfectly grilled shrimp every time!
Easy Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Asparagus and Garlic Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp and Asparagus:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Garlic Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and approximately 10 minutes to cook, adding up to a total of around 20 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or when entertaining guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
In a medium bowl, toss the shrimp with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until every piece is evenly coated. This helps to infuse flavor into the shrimp. Once mixed, set it aside while you prepare the asparagus.
2. Prepare the Asparagus:
In another bowl, toss the asparagus pieces with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Lightly season the asparagus with salt and pepper to enhance its natural flavor. Set aside while you move to the next step.
3. Make the Garlic Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s smooth and creamy. Set this aside; you’ll be using it as a delicious drizzle on your bowl.
4. Preheat the Grill:
Turn on your grill or preheat a grill pan to medium-high heat. A hot grill will give the shrimp and asparagus nice char marks and enhance their flavors.
5. Grill the Asparagus:
Once the grill is hot, place the asparagus on it. Grill for about 3-4 minutes per side until they are tender and have lovely grill marks. Once done, remove them from the grill and set them aside.
6. Grill the Shrimp:
Now, it’s time to grill the shrimp! Place them on the grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side. They’re ready when they turn pink, opaque, and have beautiful char marks. Keep an eye on them; shrimp cooks quickly!
7. Assemble the Bowl:
In a serving bowl, start by arranging the grilled asparagus as the base. Then, top it generously with the grilled shrimp, creating a colorful display.
8. Add the Garlic Sauce:
Drizzle the creamy garlic sauce over the shrimp and asparagus. The sauce adds creaminess and boosts the flavor of the dish.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Finish by sprinkling some freshly chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor. Serve your beautiful grilled shrimp bowl immediately and enjoy!
Enjoy this quick and flavorful shrimp bowl that’s perfect for a healthy and satisfying meal! 🍽️
FAQ for Easy 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 cooking. You can thaw them overnight in the fridge or quickly by placing them in a sealed bag and submerging it in cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Pat them dry to avoid excess moisture on the grill.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise in the Garlic Sauce?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt or sour cream are great substitutes for mayonnaise. They will give you a creamy texture with a tangy flavor that pairs nicely with the shrimp and asparagus.
How Can I Store Leftover Shrimp Bowl?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm the shrimp and asparagus in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, being careful not to overcook the shrimp again.
Can I Make This Recipe Without a Grill?
Definitely! You can use a grill pan on the stovetop or even broil the shrimp and asparagus in the oven. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as the cooking process may vary slightly. Either method will yield tasty results!
