Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Asparagus & Creamy Garlic Sauce is a fantastic dish for many reasons. First, it’s quick and easy to make, requiring just a handful of simple ingredients that come together beautifully on the grill. The shrimp cook in minutes, and the asparagus adds a wonderful crunch and fresh flavor to the bowl. The creamy garlic sauce elevates the whole dish, creating the perfect balance between smoky, savory, and creamy. Whether you’re in the mood for a light lunch or a hearty dinner, this recipe is versatile and can even be paired with rice, quinoa, or a simple side salad for a complete meal. Plus, it's a great option for anyone looking for a low-carb or gluten-free dish.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp: 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
For the Asparagus: 1 pound asparagus, trimmed
1 tablespoon olive oil
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce: ½ cup mayonnaise
¼ cup sour cream
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prep the Shrimp: In a bowl, combine the shrimp with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Toss everything to coat the shrimp evenly with the seasonings.
- Prep the Asparagus: Toss the trimmed asparagus with olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
- Grill the Shrimp and Asparagus: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. At the same time, grill the asparagus for 3-4 minutes, or until it's tender-crisp and has a nice char.
- Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce: While the shrimp and asparagus are grilling, mix together mayonnaise, sour cream, minced garlic, lemon juice, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Stir until well combined.
- Assemble the Bowls: Once the shrimp and asparagus are grilled, arrange them in bowls. Drizzle the creamy garlic sauce over the top, and your dish is ready to serve. Enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe makes about 4 servings.
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Grilling Time: 5-7 minutes
- Total Time: 15-17 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Shrimp: If you prefer your shrimp with a bit more heat, add extra cayenne pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix.
- Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, replace the shrimp with grilled tofu or tempeh, and pair it with additional vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms.
- Make it a Meal: Serve this bowl with a side of rice, quinoa, or a green salad to turn it into a more filling meal.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The creamy garlic sauce should also be stored separately.
- Reheating: Reheat the shrimp and asparagus in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave them, but be careful not to overcook the shrimp.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just be sure to thaw them thoroughly before cooking.
2. Can I make the creamy garlic sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the creamy garlic sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
3. Can I use a grill pan instead of an outdoor grill?
Yes, a grill pan will work perfectly if you don’t have access to an outdoor grill.
4. What can I substitute for sour cream in the creamy garlic sauce?
You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter version or use more mayonnaise for a creamier sauce.
5. Can I use other vegetables besides asparagus?
Absolutely! Zucchini, bell peppers, or broccoli would be great alternatives to asparagus.
6. How do I prevent the shrimp from overcooking?
Be sure to monitor the shrimp closely while grilling. They cook very quickly, so remove them from the heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
7. How long should I grill the asparagus?
Grill the asparagus for 3-4 minutes, just until it's tender-crisp with nice grill marks.
8. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While the shrimp and asparagus are best served fresh, you can prepare the creamy garlic sauce and marinate the shrimp ahead of time.
9. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free mayonnaise and sour cream.
10. Can I add cheese to this recipe?
You can certainly add some grated Parmesan or feta cheese as a garnish to the finished bowl for extra flavor.
Conclusion
This Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Asparagus & Creamy Garlic Sauce is an easy-to-make, healthy, and delicious meal perfect for any occasion. With tender shrimp, flavorful grilled asparagus, and a creamy sauce to tie it all together, it's a satisfying dish that’s both light and fulfilling. Whether you’re looking for a low-carb option or a simple yet elegant dinner, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite!
Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Asparagus & Creamy Garlic Sauce
This Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Asparagus & Creamy Garlic Sauce is a flavorful, healthy, and quick meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Succulent shrimp, grilled asparagus, and a rich garlic sauce come together in just 15 minutes for a light, satisfying dish. Whether you’re looking for a gluten-free or low-carb dinner, this recipe has you covered. Try this easy and delicious shrimp bowl today!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5-7 minutes
- Total Time: 15-17 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish, Seafood
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
For the Asparagus:
- 1 pound asparagus, trimmed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prep the Shrimp: In a bowl, combine shrimp with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (optional). Toss to coat evenly.
- Prep the Asparagus: Toss the trimmed asparagus with olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
- Grill the Shrimp and Asparagus: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side or until pink and opaque. Grill the asparagus for 3-4 minutes, until tender-crisp with grill marks.
- Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, minced garlic, lemon juice, parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir to mix well.
- Assemble the Bowls: Arrange the grilled shrimp and asparagus in bowls, drizzle with creamy garlic sauce, and serve immediately.
Notes
- Feel free to use a grill pan if you don’t have an outdoor grill.
- Substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
- For added flavor, top with Parmesan or feta cheese.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.