This Healthy Grilled Shrimp Bowl is a colorful delight filled with juicy shrimp, fresh veggies, and a tasty creamy garlic sauce. It’s light yet satisfying!
Pairing the shrimp with crisp veggies makes each bite a treat. I like to serve it on a cozy night with music playing, feeling proud of my healthy dinner choice! 🎶
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are the star here, providing that juicy pop in every bite. If you’re looking for substitutions, you could use chicken or tofu if seafood isn’t your thing. Just adjust cooking times accordingly!
Olive Oil: This adds a nice richness to the shrimp. If you’re out of olive oil, feel free to use avocado oil or even coconut oil for a different flavor. Both have high smoke points, which is great for grilling.
Corn: Fresh corn brings sweetness and crunch, but frozen corn works just as well! If you can’t find corn, diced bell peppers or even chopped zucchinis can add great texture.
Greek Yogurt: It gives the sauce a creamy texture with a tang. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using coconut yogurt or a cashew-based yogurt for a similar creaminess.
How Can I Grill the Shrimp Perfectly?
Grilling shrimp can be tricky if you don’t keep an eye on the timing. They cook quickly, so here are some tips to get them just right:
- Marinate the shrimp for at least 15 minutes — it adds flavor and stops them from drying out.
- Use medium-high heat and ensure your grill is well-preheated to get those lovely char marks.
- Watch them closely! Grill for about 2-3 minutes per side; they’re done when they turn opaque. Overcooking can make them rubbery.
With these tips, your shrimp will be deliciously tender and flavorful! Enjoy your grilling experience!
Healthy Grilled Shrimp Bowl With Creamy Garlic Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Juice of 1 lime
For the Corn Salsa:
- 1 cup fresh or frozen corn kernels
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1 small tomato, finely diced
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional, for heat)
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1/2 lime
- Salt, to taste
For the Guacamole:
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 cloves garlic, minced or pressed
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp fresh herbs (parsley or cilantro), finely chopped
- 1 tsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes, including prep and cooking time. You’ll spend about 15 minutes marinating the shrimp, 10 minutes preparing the salsas and sauces, and 5 minutes grilling the shrimp. Quick and easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
In a bowl, combine the olive oil, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Add the shrimp and toss them to coat well. Let them marinate for about 15 minutes to absorb all those delicious flavors.
2. Make the Corn Salsa:
While the shrimp is marinating, prepare the corn salsa. In a medium bowl, mix the corn, red onion, diced tomato, jalapeño (if using), cilantro, lime juice, and salt. Set it aside for the flavors to combine.
3. Prepare the Guacamole:
In a small bowl, mash the avocado with lime juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until it’s smooth but still slightly chunky. This adds a nice texture to your bowl!
4. Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
In another small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, chopped herbs, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Make sure to taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
5. Grill the Shrimp:
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. You can thread the shrimp onto skewers or place them directly on the grill. Grill the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes per side, until they turn opaque and have nice char marks.
6. Assemble the Bowl:
Start building your bowl! In serving bowls, add a scoop of guacamole, a generous portion of corn salsa, and top it off with the grilled shrimp.
7. Drizzle with the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
Now, take that creamy garlic sauce and spoon it over the shrimp for a tasty finish!
8. Serve Immediately:
Grab a fork, dig in, and enjoy your fresh, healthy grilled shrimp bowl! It’s a colorful and nutritious meal that’s sure to impress!
This dish combines smoky, spiced shrimp with fresh, vibrant vegetables and a tangy creamy sauce — perfect for a nourishing and tasty meal.
FAQ for Healthy Grilled Shrimp Bowl With Creamy Garlic Sauce
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes! If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them completely before marinating. You can thaw them overnight in the fridge or place them in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for a quicker option. Pat them dry before marinating to ensure they absorb the flavors well.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To keep the ingredients fresh, it’s best to store the shrimp, salsa, guacamole, and sauce separately. Reheat the shrimp gently on the stove or in the microwave, but avoid overheating the guacamole to keep it from browning.
Can I Prepare This Bowl in Advance?
Yes, you can prep the components in advance! Marinate the shrimp and make the corn salsa, guacamole, and creamy garlic sauce ahead of time. Just keep them covered in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, grill the shrimp and assemble the bowl for a quick meal.
What Can I Substitute for Greek Yogurt in the Sauce?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option or don’t have Greek yogurt on hand, you can substitute with coconut yogurt or silken tofu blended until smooth. Both options will keep the sauce creamy while providing different flavor profiles!
