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

If you’re looking for a meal that feels fresh, vibrant, and oh-so-satisfying, you’ve come to the right place! The Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce is one of my all-time favorites. It’s bursting with flavor and packed with wholesome ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxing family gathering. Every bite takes me back to sunny days and warm evenings—who doesn’t love a dish that brings a little sunshine to the table?

The beauty of this bowl lies not only in its taste but also in how easy it is to prepare. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a beautiful meal that’s as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 25 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for those nights when you need something delicious in a hurry.
• Packed with Flavor: The combination of grilled shrimp, zesty corn salsa, and creamy garlic sauce creates an explosion of flavors that will keep you coming back for more.
• Healthy Ingredients: With fresh veggies and lean protein, this bowl is not only tasty but also heart-smart.
• Customizable: Feel free to mix things up with different toppings or proteins; it’s versatile enough for everyone!
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make extra servings and enjoy leftovers for lunch or dinner throughout the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients! Each one adds its own unique flair to this delightful dish. 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 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 is! Here are some fun variations to make it your own:

• Swap the protein: If shrimp isn’t your thing, try grilled chicken or tofu for a delicious twist.
• Add more veggies: Toss in diced bell peppers or cherry tomatoes for added color and nutrition.
• Make it spicy: Amp up the heat by adding more jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce in your creamy sauce.
• Try different sauces: Experiment with different dressings like tahini or a yogurt-based sauce for new flavors.

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 everything together until each shrimp is well coated. This marinating step adds incredible flavor and ensures that every bite packs a punch!

Step 2: Make the Corn Salsa

In another bowl, mix together corn, diced red onion, jalapeño (if using), chopped cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. This salsa is so fresh and bright; it complements the grilled shrimp beautifully. Set this aside while you grill the shrimp.

Step 3: Grill the Shrimp

Preheat your grill over medium heat. Add your seasoned shrimp and grill them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. This quick grilling brings out their natural sweetness while giving them that irresistible charred flavor.

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 adds richness to your bowl while balancing out all those vibrant flavors.

Step 5: Assemble the Bowls

Now comes the fun part! Divide your corn salsa between two bowls, then top each with grilled shrimp and slices of avocado. Drizzle generously with that creamy garlic sauce you just made. Don’t forget to sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions on top for extra flair!

And there you have it—a delightful Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce ready to impress! Enjoy this hearty yet healthy meal any day of the week!

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

Making this Grilled Shrimp Bowl is a breeze, and with these pro tips, you’ll be sure to impress your family and friends!

• Use fresh shrimp: Fresh shrimp will give you the best flavor and texture. If you can’t find fresh, make sure to thaw frozen shrimp properly by placing them in the refrigerator overnight or running them under cold water for about 15 minutes.

• Customize the spice level: Adjust the cayenne pepper to your taste! If you prefer a milder flavor, feel free to skip it entirely or use just a pinch. You can always add more heat later if desired.

• Mix up the salsa ingredients: Don’t hesitate to experiment with other veggies like diced bell peppers or cherry tomatoes in your corn salsa. This adds variety and freshness to each bite.

• Let the sauce chill: For an even creamier taste, allow the creamy garlic sauce to sit in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

• Serve immediately for best taste: This dish is best enjoyed fresh! Try to assemble and serve it right after preparation for optimal taste and presentation.

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

Presentation is key when serving up this vibrant bowl! Here are some ideas to elevate your dining experience.

Garnishes

• Chopped cilantro: Sprinkling some extra chopped cilantro on top not only adds color but also enhances that fresh flavor.
• Lime wedges: Placing lime wedges on the side gives everyone the option to add a spritz of citrus, brightening up every bite.
• Sliced radishes: Adding a few thinly sliced radishes provides a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the creamy sauce and avocado.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with cucumber, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the shrimp bowl perfectly while adding extra protein and fiber.
• Grilled Vegetables: Tossing seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus on the grill makes for a smoky side that pairs wonderfully with this dish.
• Spanish Rice: Fluffy Spanish rice flavored with spices can bring an additional layer of taste to your meal while being an excellent base for all those delicious toppings.
• Black Bean Tacos: These simple tacos filled with black beans and topped with avocado will provide a hearty yet healthy addition to your meal spread.

Enjoy crafting this delightful Grilled Shrimp Bowl! It’s perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a satisfying solo meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make components in advance, making it a quick and healthy option for busy days.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Keep the corn salsa separate to maintain freshness and flavor.
• Avocado can brown quickly; if you have leftovers, consider storing it in a separate container with lime juice to slow down oxidation.

Freezing

• It’s best to freeze the cooked shrimp separately from other components.
• Place the shrimp in a freezer-safe bag or container, ensuring as much air as possible is removed. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Corn salsa can also be frozen, but it’s recommended to consume it fresh for the best taste.

Reheating

• Thaw shrimp overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• To reheat, place shrimp on a skillet over medium heat for about 3-5 minutes until warmed through.
• Corn salsa can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature but should not be reheated as it may lose its fresh crunch.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful dish!

How do I make Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just ensure that all the ingredients, especially sauces and condiments, are labeled gluten-free.

Can I substitute the shrimp in the Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce?

Absolutely! You can use chicken breast or tofu as alternatives. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure they’re fully cooked.

What can I use instead of mayonnaise in the creamy sauce?

You can use Greek yogurt or a dairy-free substitute like cashew cream for a lighter version of the sauce while still keeping it creamy.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! The Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce is excellent for meal prep. You can prepare each component ahead of time and assemble them when ready to eat.

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

The total time needed is about 25 minutes, making it a quick and easy option for lunch or dinner!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited about this Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce as I am! This recipe doesn’t just taste amazing; it’s nutritious and versatile too. Whether you enjoy it as a quick lunch or an impressive dinner for friends and family, it’s sure to be a hit. Enjoy making this delightful bowl full of flavors, and don’t hesitate to share your experience with me!