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

If you’re looking for a meal that’s not only healthy but also bursting with flavor, then the Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce is just what you need! This dish has become a favorite in my kitchen because it combines the delightful smokiness of grilled shrimp with the freshness of avocado and corn salsa. Whether you’re preparing a quick lunch or hosting a family dinner, this bowl is sure to impress.

What makes this recipe truly special is its versatility. You can whip it up in about 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy wholesome ingredients that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: You can have this delicious meal ready in just 25 minutes!
• Flavorful: The combination of spices and creamy sauce takes each bite to another level.
• Colorful Presentation: It looks as good as it tastes, making it perfect for gatherings.
• Customizable: You can easily swap out ingredients based on your preferences.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with nutrients, it’s a heart-smart option for any meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients for our Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce. These are all easy to find and will help create a delightful bowl that everyone will enjoy.

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

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it can be! Here are some fun variations you might want to try:

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken or tofu instead of shrimp for a different flavor profile.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some diced bell peppers or cherry tomatoes to the corn salsa for extra color and nutrition.
• Make it spicy: If you love heat, add more jalapeño or even some hot sauce to the creamy garlic sauce.
• Go grain-free: Serve everything over a bed of greens instead of rice or quinoa 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, pepper, and cayenne pepper if you like a bit of heat. Toss everything well to coat. This step is crucial as it infuses your shrimp with all those wonderful flavors before grilling!

Step 2: Make the Corn Salsa

In another bowl, mix together your thawed corn, diced red onion, minced jalapeño (if using), chopped cilantro, lime juice, and salt. Gently stir everything until combined and set aside. This salsa adds a refreshing crunch that complements the shrimp beautifully.

Step 3: Grill the Shrimp

Preheat your grill to medium heat and grill the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are pink and cooked through. Be careful not to overcook them; they should be tender and juicy!

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, chopped cilantro, lime juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth. This creamy garlic sauce brings everything together and adds richness to your bowl.

Step 5: Assemble the Bowls

Now comes the fun part! Divide your corn salsa between bowls and top each one with grilled shrimp and sliced or mashed avocado. Drizzle generously with your creamy garlic sauce and finish off with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish. Enjoy every delicious bite!

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

Creating the perfect Grilled Shrimp Bowl is all about attention to detail and a few handy tricks. Here are some pro tips to ensure your dish is bursting with flavor and perfectly cooked.

• Choose Fresh Shrimp: Opt for fresh shrimp whenever possible. Fresh shrimp have a better texture and flavor compared to frozen ones. If frozen is your only option, ensure they are thawed completely before cooking.

• Marinate for Flavor: Letting your shrimp marinate for at least 15 minutes will enhance their flavor. The olive oil, paprika, and spices will penetrate the shrimp, making them taste even more delicious when grilled.

• Preheat Your Grill: A hot grill is key to achieving that perfect char! Make sure to preheat your grill for about 10-15 minutes before cooking the shrimp; this helps them cook evenly and prevents sticking.

• Watch Cooking Time: Shrimp cook quickly – usually in just 2-3 minutes per side. Keep an eye on them and remove them as soon as they turn pink and opaque to avoid overcooking.

• Customization is Key: Feel free to adjust the spice levels in both the shrimp and corn salsa. If you love heat, add more cayenne or jalapeño; if you prefer milder flavors, simply reduce the amounts used!

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

Presenting your Grilled Shrimp Bowl can elevate the dining experience. Here are some delightful ways to serve this vibrant dish that will impress family and friends alike!

Garnishes

• Fresh Cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a bright pop of color and enhances the overall flavor profile of the bowl.
• Lime Wedges: Serve lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the top right before eating; it adds a refreshing zing!
• Avocado Slices: Arrange avocado slices artfully on top or beside the shrimp for a creamy texture that complements the dish beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast while adding extra nutrients.
• Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal grilled veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus can complement the smoky grilled shrimp perfectly.
• Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread makes a fantastic addition to soak up any leftover creamy garlic sauce from your bowl.
• Crispy Tortilla Chips: Serve some tortilla chips on the side for added crunch and a fun way to scoop up that delicious corn salsa!

With these serving suggestions and tips in hand, you’re all set to create a stunning and flavorful Grilled Shrimp Bowl that will leave everyone asking for seconds! Enjoy your healthy meal full of zest and vibrant colors!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce is fantastic for meal prep! You can easily make components ahead of time, ensuring a quick and delicious meal is always within reach.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover shrimp and corn salsa in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator.
• The avocado should be prepared fresh, but if you have leftovers, sprinkle it with lime juice to help prevent browning before storing.
• Consume the leftovers within 2 days for the best taste and quality.

Freezing

• While it’s best to enjoy the shrimp fresh, you can freeze cooked shrimp. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag once frozen.
• The corn salsa can also be frozen, though it’s best enjoyed fresh. If freezing, store in an airtight container; use within 2 months.

Reheating

• To reheat the shrimp, place them in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, about 3-5 minutes.
• The corn salsa can be served cold or at room temperature—no need to reheat unless preferred.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might come to mind as you prepare this delicious dish!

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

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

What can I substitute for mayonnaise in the creamy sauce?

If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt is an excellent alternative to mayonnaise for the creamy garlic sauce!

Is there a way to make the corn salsa spicier?

Certainly! You can add more jalapeño or even some diced serrano peppers to give your corn salsa an extra kick.

How long will it take to prepare the Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce?

This recipe takes about 25 minutes from start to finish—perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunch!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing this Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce—it’s not only vibrant and tasty but also packed with nutrients! This meal is bound to become a favorite for its ease and delightful flavors. Enjoy every bite and feel free to share your experience or variations! Happy cooking!