Grilled Shrimp and Vegetable Bowl

Grilled Shrimp and Vegetable Bowl is a delightful dish that combines the freshness of grilled shrimp, corn, peppers, and zucchini, all topped with creamy avocado and zesty lime juice. This light salad is perfect for warm summer days and can be served as a main course or a side dish. Its vibrant colors and bold flavors make it a standout choice for barbecues, picnics, or simply a healthy weeknight dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This recipe takes only 20 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Ingredients: Combining spices like smoked paprika and fresh lime juice gives the bowl a deliciously unique flavor.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein from shrimp and nutrients from vegetables, this meal is both satisfying and nutritious.
• Versatile Dish: You can easily swap in other vegetables or proteins based on what you have on hand or prefer.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make extra to enjoy leftovers throughout the week; it holds up well in the refrigerator.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Grilled Shrimp and Vegetable Bowl, you’ll need some essential tools for grilling and prepping your ingredients.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Skewers (wood or metal)
• Medium bowl
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: A grill adds that smoky flavor that enhances the taste of your shrimp and veggies.
• Skewers: Using skewers makes it easy to handle shrimp on the grill while ensuring even cooking.
• Cutting board: A solid cutting board provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables efficiently.

Ingredients

Grilled shrimp, corn, peppers and zucchini topped with fresh avocado and lime juice – an easy light salad you’ll want to make all summer long.

For the Shrimp

• 32 large peeled and deveined shrimp (12 oz)
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt (divided)
• Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
• Pinch cayenne pepper (or more, to taste)

For the Vegetables

• Olive oil spray
• 1 7 oz zucchini, quartered lengthwise
• 1 medium red bell pepper (halved, seeds and membrane removed)
• 4 small corn cobs (husks removed)

For Topping

• 4 ounces Hass avocado (1 small, diced)
• Juice from ½ a lime

How to Make Grilled Shrimp and Vegetable Bowl

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Gently pat shrimp dry with a paper towel and place them in a medium bowl. Add the olive oil and toss to evenly coat. Add the onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, brown sugar, ½ teaspoon salt, pepper, and cayenne. Toss again until evenly combined. Carefully skewer shrimp onto pre-soaked wood or metal skewers. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

Lightly spray the bell pepper, zucchini, and corn with olive oil spray. Use your hands to ensure they are evenly coated. Season with ¼ teaspoon salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Step 3: Grill Everything

Over medium-high heat, grill the corn cobs, bell pepper halves, and zucchini for about 4 minutes. Using long metal tongs, carefully turn them over. After turning them, place the skewered shrimp on the grill. Cook for an additional 4 minutes while flipping the shrimp after 2 minutes. Remove everything from the grill at once when cooked through.

Step 4: Assemble Your Bowl

Place corn cobs on a cutting board. Carefully cut off kernels from each cob into a medium bowl. Dice the grilled peppers and zucchini into bite-sized pieces. Add corn kernels along with diced peppers, zucchini, avocado, lime juice, remaining ¼ teaspoon salt, and pepper to taste in the bowl. Toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly. Divide shrimp among plates along with vegetable salad mixture before serving.

Enjoy your Grilled Shrimp and Vegetable Bowl fresh off the grill!

How to Serve Grilled Shrimp and Vegetable Bowl

Serving your grilled shrimp and vegetable bowl can elevate the dining experience. Here are some ideas to make your meal even more delightful.

Fresh Herbs and Greens

• Cilantro: Sprinkle fresh cilantro on top for a burst of flavor that complements the shrimp.
• Mint: Add some chopped mint for a refreshing twist that pairs well with lime.

Dipping Sauces

• Garlic Aioli: A creamy garlic aioli can enhance the flavors of the grilled shrimp beautifully.
• Chili Sauce: For those who enjoy a spicy kick, serve with chili sauce on the side.

Serving on a Bed of Greens

• Mixed Greens: Serve the grilled shrimp and vegetables over a bed of mixed greens for added texture and nutrition.
• Quinoa or Rice: For a heartier meal, place the bowl on a base of quinoa or brown rice.

Topping Variations

• Feta Cheese: Crumble feta cheese over the top for a salty contrast to the sweetness of the corn.
• Sliced Jalapeños: Add sliced jalapeños for those who love heat in their dishes.

How to Perfect Grilled Shrimp and Vegetable Bowl

To ensure your grilled shrimp and vegetable bowl turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Marinate Longer: For deeper flavor, marinate the shrimp for at least 30 minutes before grilling.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh veggies and shrimp will enhance the dish’s overall taste and texture.
• Preheat Your Grill: Ensure the grill is hot before placing shrimp and vegetables on it to achieve perfect grill marks.
• Turn Carefully: Use long tongs to turn items on the grill gently to avoid breaking them apart.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Shrimp and Vegetable Bowl

Pairing your grilled shrimp and vegetable bowl with complementary side dishes can round out your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover juices from your bowl.
2. Caesar Salad: A light Caesar salad adds crunch and creaminess that balances well with grilled flavors.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a crisp contrast to the warm shrimp and vegetables.
4. Mango Salsa: Sweet mango salsa adds a tropical flare that enhances the dish’s freshness.
5. Roasted Potatoes: Herbed roasted potatoes offer a hearty side that pairs well with seafood.
6. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus is a healthy option that complements the flavors beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Grilled Shrimp and Vegetable Bowl, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here’s how to steer clear of them.

• Skipping the marination – Marinating shrimp enhances their flavor. Always allow time for the shrimp to soak in the seasoning.
• Not preheating the grill – A properly preheated grill ensures even cooking. Make sure your grill reaches medium-high heat before adding ingredients.
• Overcrowding the grill – If you place too much food on the grill at once, it won’t cook evenly. Grill in batches if necessary.
• Ignoring the doneness of shrimp – Shrimp cooks quickly! Keep an eye on them; they should turn opaque and firm, which usually takes only a few minutes.
• Forgetting about presentation – A beautiful dish is appetizing. Take time to arrange your shrimp and vegetables attractively on the plate.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Ensure the dish is completely cooled before sealing.

Freezing Grilled Shrimp and Vegetable Bowl

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Portioning out servings makes it easier to thaw only what you need.

Reheating Grilled Shrimp and Vegetable Bowl

• Oven – Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil, reheating for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe dish and cover. Heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop – Heat over medium-low in a skillet, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Grilled Shrimp and Vegetable Bowl:

Can I use frozen shrimp for the Grilled Shrimp and Vegetable Bowl?

Yes! Just ensure they are thawed completely before marinating and grilling.

What vegetables can I add to my Grilled Shrimp and Vegetable Bowl?

Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies like asparagus, cherry tomatoes, or broccoli.

How can I make the Grilled Shrimp and Vegetable Bowl spicier?

Add more cayenne pepper or incorporate jalapeños into your vegetable mix for extra heat.

What can I serve with my Grilled Shrimp and Vegetable Bowl?

Serve with quinoa or rice for a more filling meal, or enjoy it solo as a light salad.

Final Thoughts

The Grilled Shrimp and Vegetable Bowl is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite seasonal vegetables or choose different marinades. This refreshing dish is perfect for warm summer days, so give it a try!