This Easy Irresistible Grilled Shrimp Bowl is full of flavor and color! Juicy shrimp, fresh veggies, and a tasty sauce come together in one bowl that’s perfect for any meal.
You can’t go wrong with shrimp that’s grilled to perfection. I love adding a squeeze of lemon on top for the extra zing. It makes me feel like a chef—even if I just made it in 30 minutes!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Using large shrimp is best for grilling as they hold their moisture and flavor. If shrimp isn’t available, you can use chicken or tofu as alternatives, simply adjusting the cooking time as needed.
Olive Oil: This is great for grilling because it enhances flavor. If you want, you can substitute it with avocado oil for a slightly different taste and higher smoke point.
Rice: I usually choose brown rice for its nutty flavor and texture, but white rice works well too. Quinoa or cauliflower rice can be a good low-carb option if you’re watching carbs.
Greek Yogurt: This adds creaminess to the dish. If you’re looking for dairy-free options, try coconut yogurt or cashew cream instead.
How Can I Make Sure My Shrimp is Perfectly Grilled?
The secret to juicy shrimp is to not overcook them! Follow these steps:
- Make sure your grill is hot before adding shrimp. This promotes even cooking.
- Only grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side. Look for that opaque pink color—when they’re done, they should easily curl but not be too curled.
- Remove shrimp immediately to prevent residual heat from overcooking them further.
Keeping it simple in timing and temperature really makes a difference!
Easy Irresistible Grilled Shrimp Bowl
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup cooked white or brown rice
- 1 cup chopped lettuce or mixed greens
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
For the Sauce:
- 1/3 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tsp honey
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious shrimp bowl takes about 15 minutes to prep and 10 minutes to cook, so you can have a flavorful meal on the table in around 25-30 minutes. Perfect for a busy weeknight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Shrimp:
In a medium bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss them until they are evenly coated. Let the shrimp marinate for 10-15 minutes to soak up all those tasty flavors!
2. Grill the Shrimp:
While the shrimp is marinating, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the shrimp and grill them for about 2-3 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re done when they turn opaque and have nice grill marks. Once cooked, remove them from the grill.
3. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt (or sour cream), lime juice, honey, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s smooth and creamy. This sauce is what brings the whole bowl together!
4. Assemble the Bowls:
Divide the cooked rice into four bowls. Top each bowl with a generous amount of chopped lettuce or mixed greens. Add the halved cherry tomatoes, corn kernels, sliced avocado, and thinly sliced red onion.
5. Add the Shrimp and Sauce:
Place the grilled shrimp on top of each salad bowl. Drizzle your delicious sauce over the shrimp and garnish everything with fresh cilantro leaves.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your vibrant shrimp bowls with lime wedges on the side for a burst of fresh flavor. Enjoy this easy, healthy, and irresistible dish!
Enjoy your flavorful and easy grilled shrimp bowl!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp?
Absolutely! Just make sure to fully thaw the shrimp before marinating. The best way to thaw them is by placing them in the fridge overnight or submerging them in a sealed plastic bag in cold water for about 30 minutes.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer a milder dish, you can reduce the amount of chili powder or omit it altogether. For those who like it spicy, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some sliced jalapeños for an extra kick!
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a stir before serving, as it may thicken a bit when chilled.
What Are the Best Ways to Store Leftovers?
Leftover grilled shrimp bowls can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. It’s best to keep the shrimp and sauce separate from the veggies and rice to maintain their freshness. To reheat, gently warm the shrimp in a skillet over low heat and refresh the bowl with fresh veggies.
