This Easy Grilled Shrimp Bowl is a fun and tasty dish featuring juicy shrimp and crisp asparagus, all drizzled with a yummy garlic sauce. Perfect for a quick dinner!
If you’re like me, you’ll love how quick it is to whip this up. Just grill the shrimp and asparagus, mix the sauce, and you have a tasty meal ready in no time. Enjoy it with rice or noodles!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are the star here! If you can’t find them, medium shrimp work too. For a budget-friendly choice, frozen shrimp are always a good option; just remember to thaw them properly before grilling.
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus is crunchy and delicious. If it’s not in season, feel free to use green beans or zucchini for a similar texture and taste. Both are great when grilled!
Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for its flavor. If you’re looking for alternatives, avocado oil or melted butter can also work well while grilling the shrimp and asparagus.
Mayonnaise: The creamy base for the garlic sauce. You can swap it for Greek yogurt for a lighter option or even a vegan mayo if you’re looking for plant-based alternatives.
How Do I Grill Shrimp Perfectly Every Time?
Grilling shrimp can be tricky—they cook quickly! Here are some tips to get them just right:
- Start with prepped shrimp (peeled and deveined) to save time.
- Marinate them with olive oil, salt, pepper, and spices for extra flavor. Let sit for about 15-20 minutes before grilling.
- Use a medium-high heat on the grill to avoid burning. Cook them for 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re pink and opaque.
- Don’t overcrowd the grill; give each shrimp some space for even cooking.
With these tips, you’ll have perfectly grilled shrimp that are succulent and packed with flavor! Enjoy your meal!
Easy Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Asparagus and Garlic Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp and Asparagus Bowl:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 bunch fresh asparagus, trimmed
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
For the Garlic Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Salt to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: cooked rice or quinoa, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Grilled Shrimp Bowl will take you about 15 minutes to prep and another 10-12 minutes to cook. Just a little over 25 minutes total, and you’ll have a delicious, healthy meal on the table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. This will help give your shrimp and asparagus some nice grill marks and a delicious charred flavor.
2. Prepare the Asparagus:
Toss the asparagus in a bowl with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, adding some salt and pepper to taste. Make sure they’re well coated to enhance their flavor while grilling. Set them aside for now.
3. Season the Shrimp:
In another bowl, combine the shrimp with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, some salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Toss everything together until the shrimp are well coated with the seasoning.
4. Grill the Asparagus:
Place the asparagus on the grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side until they’re tender and slightly charred. Once done, remove them from the grill and set them aside.
5. Grill the Shrimp:
Next, grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. You’re looking for nice grill marks on them! Once cooked, take them off the grill and set aside.
6. Make the Garlic Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of black pepper until smooth. This creamy garlic sauce is what elevates the dish!
7. Assemble Your Bowl:
To put it all together, place the grilled asparagus in a serving bowl (you can also add some cooked rice or quinoa if you like). Then, arrange the grilled shrimp on top of the asparagus.
8. Drizzle with Sauce:
Generously drizzle the garlic sauce over the shrimp and asparagus. It adds flavor and creaminess to every bite!
9. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, garnish your dish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve immediately and enjoy your flavorful Easy Grilled Shrimp Bowl!
This dish is fresh, easy to prepare, and absolutely delicious. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want something special without too much fuss!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to fully thaw the shrimp before cooking. You can do this by placing them in the refrigerator overnight or quickly thawing them in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water for about 20-30 minutes.
What If I Don’t Have Mayonnaise? Can I Substitute It?
Yes, you can! Greek yogurt makes a great substitute for mayonnaise, providing a lighter alternative with a similar creaminess. You can also use sour cream or a vegan mayo if you prefer a plant-based option.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the shrimp and asparagus in a pan over low heat or in the microwave. Drizzle extra garlic sauce before serving to freshen it up!
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you’re looking for a little kick, try adding some crushed red pepper flakes to the garlic sauce, or sprinkle some cayenne pepper on the shrimp while seasoning. Adjust to your heat preference!
