Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce

If you’re looking for a quick and vibrant meal that feels both fresh and indulgent, then this Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce might just be your new favorite! This recipe combines smoky grilled shrimp with creamy avocado and sweet corn salsa, all drizzled with a zesty sauce. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s ideal for family gatherings or even meal-prepping for the week ahead. Trust me, once you try this bowl, you’ll be coming back to it time and time again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: You can whip this up in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for those hectic evenings.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of smoky shrimp, creamy avocado, and zesty corn salsa creates a deliciously satisfying meal.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste or what you have on hand.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and fresh veggies, it’s a wholesome option for any meal.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week—just store components separately!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple and wholesome ingredients is part of the fun! They come together beautifully to create a dish that is as colorful as it is delicious.

For the Grilled Shrimp

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp chili powder
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• Juice of 1 lime
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Corn Salsa

• 1 1/2 cups corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 2 tbsp chopped cilantro
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• Salt to taste

For the Avocado Mash

• 2 ripe avocados
• Juice of 1/2 lime
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Creamy Sauce

• 1/2 cup mayo or Greek yogurt
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 1 tsp hot sauce (optional, to taste)
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp chopped cilantro
• Salt to taste

For Serving

• Cooked rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on your preferences or pantry staples.

• Swap the protein: Try chicken or tofu instead of shrimp for different flavor profiles.
• Add extra veggies: Toss in some diced zucchini or cherry tomatoes for an added crunch.
• Make it spicy: Add diced jalapeños to the corn salsa for an extra kick!
• Switch up the grains: Use farro or barley instead of rice or quinoa for a hearty twist.

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

Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp

Start by mixing together olive oil, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, lime juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl. This marinade adds tons of flavor to your shrimp! Toss them in the marinade and let them sit for about 15–20 minutes. This step helps infuse all those delicious spices into your shrimp.

Step 2: Prepare the Corn Salsa

In another bowl, combine corn, diced red bell pepper, chopped green onions, cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Mix everything well and then chill in the fridge while you grill your shrimp. Chilling allows those flavors to mingle perfectly!

Step 3: Mash the Avocado

Scoop out two ripe avocados into a bowl. Add lime juice along with salt and pepper. Mash until creamy but still slightly chunky. The creaminess of avocado complements the other textures in this bowl beautifully.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together mayo (or Greek yogurt), lime juice, hot sauce (if using), garlic powder, smoked paprika, cilantro, and salt. If you want a thinner consistency for drizzling over your bowl later on, add a splash of water until it’s just right!

Step 5: Grill the Shrimp

Heat up your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Place marinated shrimp on it and cook each side for about 2–3 minutes until they turn pink and slightly charred. This grilling adds that smoky flavor that makes this dish so special!

Step 6: Assemble the Bowl

To serve, start with a base of cooked rice or quinoa in each bowl. Top it off with corn salsa, avocado mash, grilled shrimp, and finish by drizzling that creamy sauce on top. Garnish with fresh cilantro because who doesn’t love that pop of green?

And there you have it—a stunning Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce that’s sure to impress! Enjoy every delicious bite!

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

Ready to take your Grilled Shrimp Bowl to the next level? Here are some pro tips to ensure your dish is bursting with flavor and texture!

• Prep Ahead: Marinating the shrimp in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully. If you can, let them sit for at least an hour in the fridge for maximum taste.
• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh corn when in season, or use frozen corn for convenience. Fresh ingredients enhance the flavors and textures of your bowl.
• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Keep a close eye on your shrimp while grilling. They cook quickly—just 2-3 minutes per side—so remove them from the heat as soon as they turn pink to prevent them from becoming rubbery.
• Customize Your Bowl: Feel free to add other veggies like diced tomatoes, jalapeños, or even black beans for extra protein and fiber, making this dish even more hearty!
• Make It Spicy: If you love heat, consider adding diced jalapeños to your corn salsa or increasing the amount of hot sauce in your creamy dressing.

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

Serving your Grilled Shrimp Bowl can be just as fun as making it! Consider these creative ideas to impress your family or guests.

Garnishes

• Lime Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lime juice right before eating brightens up every bite and enhances the dish’s flavors.
• Chopped Cilantro: Sprinkling a bit more fresh cilantro on top not only adds color but also complements the existing flavors wonderfully.

Side Dishes

• Crispy Tortilla Chips: These are perfect for scooping up that delicious avocado mash or creamy sauce and add a delightful crunch.
• Black Bean Salad: A refreshing mix of black beans, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice brings additional protein and vibrant flavors to your meal.
• Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus tossed with olive oil and grilled alongside the shrimp make a colorful addition.
• Mexican Street Corn (Elote): This sweet yet savory corn dish topped with lime juice, chili powder, and dairy-free cheese will perfectly complement your main bowl.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips up your sleeve, you’re all set to create a stunning Grilled Shrimp Bowl that will wow everyone at your table! Enjoy every flavorful bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce is perfect for meal prep. You can make components ahead of time, making it a breeze to assemble delicious bowls throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the grilled shrimp, corn salsa, avocado mash, and creamy sauce separately in airtight containers.
• The shrimp will stay fresh for up to 2 days in the refrigerator.
• Consume the corn salsa within 3-4 days for the best flavor and texture.
• The avocado mash should ideally be eaten within a day or two to prevent browning, but adding extra lime juice can help prolong freshness.
• The creamy sauce can last up to a week when stored properly.

Freezing

• To freeze shrimp, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container after they have cooled completely. They can be kept for up to 3 months.
• Corn salsa can also be frozen—just remember that the texture may change slightly once thawed.
• Avoid freezing avocado mash as it does not retain its creamy texture well after thawing.
• Creamy sauce can be frozen in small portions; however, it’s best enjoyed fresh.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen shrimp overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• To reheat shrimp, warm them in a skillet over medium heat until heated through (about 2-3 minutes).
• For corn salsa, simply let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving or give it a quick stir on low heat if desired.
• The creamy sauce can be whisked back together if it separates; just add a splash of water if needed.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe:

Can I make the Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce vegan?

Absolutely! You can substitute shrimp with grilled vegetables or tofu. Use plant-based mayo or yogurt for the creamy sauce.

What can I serve with my Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce?

This bowl pairs beautifully with rice or quinoa, but you could also serve it alongside tortilla chips or a fresh green salad.

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

The spiciness mostly depends on how much hot sauce you add to the creamy sauce. You can adjust it to your taste preference!

What type of shrimp should I use for the Grilled Shrimp Bowl?

Opt for large, fresh shrimp if possible; however, frozen shrimp work just as well! Just ensure they’re peeled and deveined before marinating.

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to whip up this Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce! It’s not only bursting with flavor but also brings a sense of joy and color to your dinner table. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a weekend gathering, this dish is sure to impress. Enjoy every bite and don’t forget to share your delicious creations!