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

If you’re looking for a meal that’s both healthy and bursting with flavor, let me introduce you to my favorite Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce. This dish is perfect for any occasion—from busy weeknights to relaxed family gatherings. It combines succulent grilled shrimp with a vibrant corn salsa and creamy sauce that makes every bite a delight. Trust me, this bowl of goodness will quickly become a staple in your home!

Not only is this recipe delicious, but it’s also easy to whip up in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, this grilled shrimp bowl fits the bill perfectly. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 25 minutes from start to finish, you can have a wholesome meal on the table in no time.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of spices on the shrimp and the freshness of the corn salsa creates an unforgettable taste.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust ingredients based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this colorful and hearty dish.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and fresh veggies, this bowl is as nutritious as it is delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is one of the best parts of making this Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce. Here’s what you’ll need:

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 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 Serving

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

Variations

One of the great things about this recipe is its flexibility! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Swap the protein: If shrimp isn’t your thing, feel free to use chicken or tofu instead!
• Add more crunch: Toss in some diced bell peppers or cucumber for extra texture.
• Make it spicy: For those who love heat, add more jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to your salsa.
• Try different sauces: Replace 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, pepper, and cayenne pepper if you’re feeling adventurous. Toss everything together until the shrimp are well-coated. This step ensures that every bite packs a flavorful punch!

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 some salt. Gently stir until combined and set aside. This vibrant salsa adds freshness and sweetness that perfectly complements the grilled shrimp.

Step 3: Grill the Shrimp

Heat your grill over medium heat. Grill those beautiful shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Cooking them just right keeps them juicy—nobody likes dry shrimp!

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, chopped cilantro, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth. This creamy garlic sauce is rich yet refreshing; it ties all flavors together beautifully.

Step 5: Assemble the Bowls

Now it’s time for assembly! Divide the corn salsa between two bowls. Top with grilled shrimp and slices or mashed avocado. Drizzle generously with your creamy garlic sauce and finish off with sesame seeds and green onions as garnishes.

And there you have it—a delightful Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce that will leave everyone asking for seconds! Enjoy every last bite!

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

Making the perfect grilled shrimp bowl is all about the details! Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out fantastic every time.

• Use fresh shrimp: Fresh shrimp not only tastes better but also has a firmer texture that holds up well on the grill. If using frozen shrimp, be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry to avoid excess moisture.
• Let the shrimp marinate: Allowing the shrimp to marinate for about 15-30 minutes before grilling helps them absorb the flavors of the spices and olive oil, making each bite more delicious.
• Don’t overcook the shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly—just 2-3 minutes per side is usually enough. Overcooking can lead to tough, rubbery shrimp. Watch closely and remove them from heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
• Customize your salsa: Feel free to add other ingredients to your corn salsa, like diced bell peppers or chopped tomatoes, for extra flavor and color. This adds a personal touch and allows you to adjust the flavors based on your preference!
• Make it ahead: You can prepare the corn salsa and creamy garlic sauce in advance. This not only saves time but allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, enhancing the overall taste of your meal.

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

Serving this grilled shrimp bowl is where you can get creative! A beautifully arranged bowl not only looks appealing but also makes for a delightful dining experience.

Garnishes

• Fresh cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a burst of color and enhances the fresh flavors of the dish.
• Lime wedges: Serve lime wedges on the side for an extra squeeze of citrus that brightens up every bite.
• Chili flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, adding a pinch of chili flakes on top provides both flavor and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and lemon dressing pairs perfectly with this dish, providing a refreshing contrast.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables drizzled with olive oil make a hearty side that complements the grilled shrimp beautifully.
• Cilantro Lime Rice: This fragrant rice dish infused with lime juice and cilantro adds a lovely zesty flavor that goes hand-in-hand with your bowl.
• Grilled Asparagus: Lightly grilled asparagus spears add elegance and crunch while keeping things healthy and vibrant.

Now you’re all set to create a stunning plate of Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce. Enjoy this delightful meal with family or friends any day of the week!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce is perfect for meal prep! Not only does it pack well for lunches or quick dinners, but the flavors also meld beautifully when stored. Here’s how to make the most of your leftovers.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover shrimp, corn salsa, and creamy garlic sauce in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator.
• Consume leftovers within 2-3 days for best freshness.
• Keep avocado slices separate to prevent browning; consider using lemon juice on cut avocado to help preserve color.

Freezing

• If you want to freeze portions, cool the grilled shrimp completely before placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• The corn salsa can also be frozen; just ensure it’s stored in an airtight container.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before using.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat shrimp on a skillet over medium heat until warmed through (about 3-5 minutes).
• The corn salsa can be served cold or warmed slightly in the microwave.
• Avoid reheating mayonnaise-based sauces as they may separate; instead, prepare fresh sauce when ready to serve.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe that might help you out!

Can I make the Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the components like the corn salsa and creamy garlic sauce ahead of time. Just grill the shrimp fresh before serving for optimal taste.

What can I substitute if I don’t have all ingredients for the Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce?

Feel free to get creative! You can swap shrimp for chicken or tofu, use different herbs like parsley instead of cilantro, or customize your salsa with other vegetables like bell peppers or tomatoes.

Is this Grilled Shrimp Bowl healthy?

Yes! This bowl is packed with lean protein from shrimp and nutrients from fresh vegetables and healthy fats from avocado. It’s a heart-smart choice that doesn’t compromise on flavor.

How do I ensure my shrimp are perfectly grilled?

To achieve perfectly grilled shrimp, preheat your grill and cook them just until they turn pink and opaque—usually about 2-3 minutes per side. Avoid overcooking to maintain tenderness!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce! It’s not just a meal; it’s a celebration of vibrant flavors and healthy ingredients all wrapped up in one bowl. Enjoy every bite as you savor the fresh ingredients and delightful textures. Happy cooking!