Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce

If you’re looking for a meal that’s as vibrant and delicious as it is healthy, then you’re in for a treat with this Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce! This dish has become one of my favorites because it brings together fresh flavors and wholesome ingredients all in one bowl. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or hosting friends for dinner, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy everyone at the table.

What I love most about this grilled shrimp bowl is how quick and easy it is to prepare. Plus, the combination of juicy shrimp, creamy avocado, and zesty corn salsa creates a delightful burst of flavor with every bite. It’s a heart-smart option that feels indulgent without any guilt—perfect for lunch or dinner!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: In just 25 minutes, you can have a flavorful meal on the table.
• Fresh Ingredients: Each bite is packed with wholesome goodness from fresh vegetables and herbs.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the bright flavors in this dish.
• Versatile: Perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep; it’s great for any occasion!
• Make Ahead: Prep the components ahead of time for an even quicker assembly.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients to create this delightful bowl! You’ll find everything you need right here, most of which are probably already in your pantry.

For the Shrimp

• 1 lb. large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

For the Corn Salsa

• 1 cup frozen corn (thawed)
• 1/2 cup red onion (diced)
• 1/4 cup cilantro (chopped)
• 1 jalapeño (seeded and minced; optional)
• 1 lime (juiced)
• Salt to taste

For the Creamy Garlic Sauce

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1 tablespoon cilantro (chopped)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 clove garlic (minced)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For Assembly

• 1 avocado (sliced or mashed)
• Sesame seeds (for garnish)
• Green onions (chopped, for garnish)

Variations

This Grilled Shrimp Bowl is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Use chicken or tofu instead of shrimp for a different flavor profile.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some diced bell peppers or zucchini for extra crunch and nutrition.
• Spice it up: If you love heat, try adding more jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce in the creamy garlic sauce.
• Change the sauce: Swap out the creamy garlic sauce with a zesty vinaigrette for a lighter option.

How to Make Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce

Step 1: Prep the Shrimp

In a bowl, combine your shrimp with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if you’re feeling adventurous. Toss to coat. This marinade not only adds flavor but also helps keep your shrimp juicy while grilling.

Step 2: Make the Corn Salsa

In another bowl, mix together thawed corn, diced red onion, minced jalapeño (if using), chopped cilantro, lime juice, and salt. Gently combine everything. This salsa adds a refreshing crunch that perfectly complements the grilled shrimp.

Step 3: Grill the Shrimp

Fire up your grill! Place your seasoned shrimp over medium heat and grill them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them; they cook quickly!

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, chopped cilantro, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until smooth. This creamy garlic sauce ties everything together with its rich flavor.

Step 5: Assemble the Bowls

To assemble, divide the corn salsa between bowls. Top with grilled shrimp and slices or mash of avocado. Drizzle generously with creamy garlic sauce. Finish off by garnishing with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for an extra touch!

And there you have it—a beautiful Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce that’s sure to delight! Enjoy every colorful bite!

Pro Tips for Making Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce

Creating the perfect Grilled Shrimp Bowl is a breeze with these handy tips to enhance flavors and presentation!

• Choose Fresh Shrimp: Opt for fresh shrimp whenever possible for better flavor and texture. Fresh shrimp will give your dish a delightful taste that frozen options may lack.

• Marinate Longer: If time allows, marinate the shrimp for at least 30 minutes to an hour. This extra time lets the spices infuse deeply into the shrimp, resulting in a more flavorful bite.

• Adjust Heat Levels: Tailor the spice level by adjusting or omitting the cayenne pepper based on your preference. This way, you can ensure everyone enjoys the meal without any overwhelming heat.

• Use Ripe Avocado: Make sure your avocado is perfectly ripe—this adds a creamy texture that complements the vibrant corn salsa beautifully. A ripe avocado will mash easily and spread deliciously over your bowl.

• Experiment with Toppings: Don’t hesitate to add your favorite toppings like diced tomatoes or sliced radishes for added freshness. These bright colors and flavors will enhance both presentation and taste!

How to Serve Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce

Presenting your Grilled Shrimp Bowl can be just as enjoyable as eating it! Here are some creative ways to serve this delightful dish that will impress family and friends alike.

Garnishes

• Lime Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lime juice right before digging in brightens up all the flavors in your bowl.
• Chopped Cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a burst of color and enhances the herbaceous notes of your dish.
• Sliced Jalapeños: For those who love a kick, adding some sliced jalapeños on top can elevate the spiciness level while providing an appealing look.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a lemon vinaigrette pairs nicely with your bowl. It adds an additional layer of nutrition and flavor.

• Grilled Vegetables: Sliced zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus drizzled with olive oil and grilled until tender make a colorful and healthy side that complements the shrimp beautifully.

• Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob seasoned with lime and chili powder offers a fun twist that ties in nicely with the corn salsa already in your bowl.

• Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice infused with lime juice and chopped cilantro provides a perfect base for scooping up all those tasty ingredients from your shrimp bowl!

Whether you’re serving it for lunch or dinner, this Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce is sure to be a hit. Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce is fantastic for meal prep! You can easily prepare components in advance, making it a quick and convenient option for lunch or dinner throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover shrimp, corn salsa, and creamy garlic sauce separately in airtight containers.
• Keep the avocado slices separate to prevent browning; consider using lemon juice to keep them fresh.
• Refrigerate everything for up to 2 days.

Freezing

• While the shrimp is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the corn salsa without any adverse effects.
• Portion the corn salsa into freezer-safe bags or containers. It will last for about 2-3 months in the freezer.
• Avoid freezing the creamy garlic sauce as it may separate upon thawing.

Reheating

• To reheat shrimp, place them on a microwave-safe plate and heat in short intervals until warmed through.
• The corn salsa can be served chilled or warmed slightly on the stove over low heat.
• Always add freshly sliced avocado just before serving to maintain its texture and flavor.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe:

Can I use frozen shrimp for the Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce?

Yes! Frozen shrimp work perfectly fine. Just make sure to thaw them completely before marinating and grilling.

What’s the best way to store leftovers of my Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce?

Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Remember to keep avocado slices separate to prevent browning!

Can I make the corn salsa ahead of time?

Absolutely! The corn salsa can be made a day ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before serving.

How spicy is the Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce?

The spiciness depends on your choice of jalapeño and optional cayenne pepper. You can adjust these ingredients according to your heat preference.

Is there a substitute for mayonnaise in the creamy sauce?

Yes! You can use Greek yogurt or an egg-free mayo alternative if you’re looking for a lighter option without compromising flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce as much as I do! It’s not only bursting with flavors but also packed with nutrients. This recipe is perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying solo on a busy weekday. Dive into this vibrant bowl of goodness and let your taste buds dance! Happy cooking!