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

If you’re looking for a meal that’s bursting with flavor and nutrition, you’ve come to the right place! This Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce is my go-to recipe for those busy weeknights or when I want to impress friends at a gathering. It’s a delightful mix of grilled shrimp, creamy avocado, and zesty corn salsa—all topped with a dreamy garlic sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Not only is this dish delicious, but it also feels like a special treat without being too heavy. It’s perfect for lunch or dinner, and honestly, it never fails to brighten my day!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: In just 25 minutes, you can have a flavorful meal on the table.
• Family-friendly: Kids love the fun combination of shrimp and creamy sauce; it’s sure to be a hit!
• Make-ahead convenience: The corn salsa can be prepared in advance, making mealtime even easier.
• Fresh ingredients: Enjoy wholesome flavors from fresh veggies and shrimp without any fuss.
• Customizable: This recipe offers plenty of room for variations based on your taste preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients for this bowl of goodness! Most of them are staples you might already have at home. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Shrimp Marinade

• 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

To Assemble

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

Variations

One of the best parts about this recipe is how flexible it is! You can easily adapt it to suit your cravings or whatever ingredients you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: If shrimp isn’t your thing, try using grilled chicken or tofu for a different twist!
• Add more veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or cherry tomatoes into the corn salsa for extra color and crunch.
• Make it spicy: If you love heat, add more jalapeños or sprinkle some chili flakes over the top before serving.
• Try different sauces: Experiment with other sauces like a spicy aioli or mango salsa to keep things exciting.

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

Step 1: Prep the Shrimp

Start by combining your shrimp with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper if you like a little kick. This step is crucial because marinating allows all those wonderful flavors to soak into the shrimp. Give it a good toss until they’re well-coated!

Step 2: Make the Corn Salsa

In another bowl, mix together thawed corn, diced red onion, minced jalapeño (if desired), chopped cilantro, lime juice, and salt. The bright flavors in this corn salsa complement the grilled shrimp perfectly. Set it aside while you grill!

Step 3: Grill the Shrimp

Preheat your grill to medium heat. Place your marinated shrimp on the grill and cook them for about 2-3 minutes per side or until they turn pink and opaque. This grilling process gives them that lovely smoky flavor while keeping them juicy.

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 what ties everything together—rich yet refreshing!

Step 5: Assemble the Bowls

Now comes the fun part! Divide your corn salsa between bowls. Top each with grilled shrimp and slices of avocado—feel free to mash it if you prefer! Drizzle generously with that creamy garlic sauce and finish off with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for an extra layer of flavor.

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

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

Creating a delicious Grilled Shrimp Bowl is easier than you think—just follow these handy tips to elevate your dish!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh shrimp and ripe avocados will enhance the flavor and texture of your bowl, making it more enjoyable. The freshness can truly make a difference in taste!

• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Keep an eye on your shrimp as they grill; overcooked shrimp can become rubbery. Cooking them just until they turn pink and opaque will ensure they remain tender and juicy.

• Make Ahead for Convenience: Prepare the corn salsa and creamy sauce ahead of time. This not only saves you time during meal prep but also allows flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.

• Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to tweak the amount of cayenne pepper or jalapeño according to your spice preference. Personalizing the heat level makes this dish perfect for everyone at your table.

• Experiment with Toppings: Don’t hesitate to add your favorite toppings such as sliced radishes or a sprinkle of cheese alternatives to give an extra pop of flavor and texture.

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

Presenting your Grilled Shrimp Bowl beautifully can make any meal feel special! Here are some ideas to help you serve this delightful dish with flair.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Cilantro: A sprinkle of cilantro adds a burst of freshness that complements the other flavors in the bowl.
• Lime Wedges: Providing lime wedges on the side allows guests to squeeze fresh juice over their bowls, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
• Sliced Radishes: These colorful slices not only add crunch but also bring a lovely pop of color, making your bowl visually appealing.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad tossed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a zesty dressing offers a nutritious complement that pairs well with the shrimp bowl.
• Grilled Veggies: Seasonal grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus add a smoky flavor that beautifully contrasts with the creamy elements of the dish.
• Brown Rice: Serving brown rice as a side provides a hearty base that absorbs all those delicious juices from the shrimp and salsa.
• Tortilla Chips: For a crunchy side option, serve tortilla chips alongside your bowl. They add texture and can be dipped into the creamy garlic sauce for an extra treat!

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re ready to create an unforgettable dining experience with your Grilled Shrimp Bowl! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce is perfect for meal prep! Not only is it delicious, but it also stores well for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover shrimp and corn salsa in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate and consume within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.
• Keep the creamy garlic sauce separate to prevent it from making the other ingredients soggy.

Freezing

• If you’ve made extra shrimp or corn salsa, you can freeze them.
• Store in freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible.
• Use within 1-2 months for the best taste and texture. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

• To reheat, gently warm the shrimp on a skillet over low heat until heated through.
• For corn salsa, you can enjoy it cold or warmed slightly in a microwave.
• Drizzle fresh creamy garlic sauce just before serving for maximum flavor.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about the Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce:

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

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the frozen shrimp completely before marinating and grilling them. It helps to achieve that juicy texture we all love.

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

If you’re out of avocado, try using a dollop of guacamole or even some diced mango for a refreshing twist. Both options will add a nice creaminess to your bowl!

How long does the creamy garlic sauce last in the fridge?

The creamy garlic sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Just give it a good stir before using!

Can I make this dish spicy?

You sure can! Add jalapeños or increase the cayenne pepper amount in your marinade to make your Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce as spicy as you like.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited to try this Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce as I am to share it! This recipe is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of fresh flavors that come together beautifully. Enjoy preparing it for lunch or dinner and delight your loved ones with every colorful bite. Happy cooking!