If you are craving a vibrant, delicious, and fresh meal that feels both indulgent and healthy, then this Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe is just what you need. The combination of perfectly grilled shrimp, creamy avocado, sweet and tangy corn salsa, and a luscious garlic sauce creates a harmony of flavors and textures that will make your taste buds dance with joy. This bowl is colorful, packed with nutrients, and comes together in a flash, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual weekend gatherings. Let me walk you through this fantastic recipe that might just become your new favorite!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses simple, straightforward ingredients that are easy to find but incredibly effective when combined. Each contributes to a balance of flavors—whether it’s the juicy shrimp for protein, the sweet corn for brightness, or the creamy avocado for richness.
- 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined): The star of the dish, providing tender, smoky bites packed with flavor.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps to coat the shrimp and keep them juicy on the grill.
- 1 cup frozen corn (thawed): Adds natural sweetness and a satisfying crunch to the salsa.
- 1/2 cup red onion (diced): Brings sharpness and a bit of crunch that brightens the salsa.
- 1 lime (juiced): Essential for tang and freshness in both the salsa and the creamy sauce.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise: Gives the sauce a rich, velvety texture.
- 1/4 cup sour cream: Adds a cool creaminess balanced with a slight tang in the sauce.
- 1 avocado (sliced): This creamy, buttery fruit rounds off the bowl perfectly and makes every bite luscious.
- Spices (paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper): Build layers of flavor with a touch of warmth and savoriness.
- Optional extras (jalapeño, cilantro, minced garlic): Bring a kick of heat, freshness, and depth.
How to Make Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp
First things first, toss those beautiful shrimp with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and a pinch of cayenne if you like a little heat. This simple marinade brings out a smoky, savory base that will make your grilled shrimp irresistibly tasty. Give them a good mix so every shrimp is evenly coated – that’s where all the magic starts.
Step 2: Prepare the Corn Salsa
In a separate bowl, mix together thawed corn, diced red onion, some jalapeño if you want it spicy, freshly chopped cilantro, a generous squeeze of lime juice, and a pinch of salt. This salsa bursts with color and freshness that perfectly offsets the rich shrimp and creamy parts in the bowl. Let it rest while you get the shrimp going to let the flavors meld beautifully.
Step 3: Grill the Shrimp
Heat up your grill or grill pan to medium and place the shrimp down. Grill them 2 to 3 minutes per side until pink and nicely charred on the edges. The grilling process seals in the marinade flavors and gives the shrimp that wonderful smoky depth which makes this bowl truly special.
Step 4: Whisk the Creamy Garlic Sauce
While the shrimp grill, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, cilantro, lime juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. This creamy garlic sauce is the silky, tangy hug your bowl needs and the perfect finishing touch that elevates all the textures and tastes.
Step 5: Assemble Your Bowl
Layer your bowls starting with a bed of that fresh corn salsa, followed by the hot grilled shrimp arranged on top, and delicate slices of ripe avocado placed just so. Finish generously by drizzling that creamy garlic sauce over everything, adding a few cilantro leaves or lime wedges if you like. This step is where all the vibrant flavors come together into a stunning, irresistible meal.
How to Serve Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of fresh chopped cilantro or a few lime wedges on the side not only makes the dish pop visually but also adds bursts of freshness right when you need them. A light dusting of smoked paprika over the top can add a lovely visual and flavor boost, making each bite exciting.
Side Dishes
This bowl is a complete meal on its own but pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or some warm, buttery tortilla chips. For something heartier, a side of cilantro-lime rice or quinoa makes a fantastic base that can turn this into a filling family feast.
Creative Ways to Present
Get playful by serving the components in separate bowls for a build-your-own style dinner. Or stack the ingredients in a mason jar for an on-the-go lunch that’s just as tasty. You can also swap out the corn salsa for a mango salsa for a tropical twist that’s sure to impress guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, keep the shrimp, corn salsa, and creamy garlic sauce stored separately in airtight containers in the fridge. This keeps the textures fresh and prevents the creamy sauce from making the salsa soggy.
Freezing
While grilled shrimp don’t freeze perfectly once mixed in the bowl, you can freeze the raw shrimp before cooking for future use. Just thaw and follow the recipe when ready to enjoy this Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe anytime you want a flavorful treat.
Reheating
Reheat the shrimp gently in a skillet over medium heat, just until warmed through to keep them tender. Avoid overheating to preserve their texture. Serve immediately with fresh avocado slices and the corn salsa chilled for the ultimate balance.
FAQs
Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh corn adds a wonderful sweetness and crunch, especially if it’s in season. Just cook or grill it lightly before using in the salsa to enhance its flavor.
What can I substitute for mayonnaise in the garlic sauce?
If you prefer a lighter or dairy-free option, Greek yogurt makes a fantastic substitute that still gives creaminess while adding a pleasant tang.
Is it necessary to grill the shrimp, or can I cook them another way?
You can sauté or broil the shrimp if you don’t have access to a grill. Just cook them quickly on medium-high heat until they turn pink and opaque for the best taste and texture.
Can I make this dish vegan or vegetarian?
For a plant-based version, swap shrimp for grilled tofu or tempeh and substitute mayonnaise and sour cream with vegan alternatives. The corn salsa and avocado will remain deliciously fresh and satisfying.
How spicy is this recipe, and can I adjust it?
The recipe has a mild warmth from the paprika and cayenne pepper; you can easily adjust the heat by reducing or omitting the cayenne and jalapeños to suit your preference.
Final Thoughts
This Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe is truly a celebration of fresh, vibrant, and bold flavors that come together effortlessly in one bowl. Whether you’re entertaining friends or craving a satisfying weeknight meal, this dish delivers every time. So go ahead, give it a try, and watch it quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection!
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Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Description
A vibrant and healthy Grilled Shrimp Bowl featuring juicy shrimp grilled to perfection, served with a fresh corn salsa, creamy garlic sauce, and ripe avocado slices. This quick and easy dish is perfect for a flavorful weeknight dinner or a light lunch.
Ingredients
Shrimp Marinade
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Corn Salsa
- 1 cup frozen corn, thawed
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and diced (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Creamy Garlic Sauce
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Additional
- 1 avocado, sliced
Instructions
- Marinate Shrimp: In a bowl, combine shrimp, olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if using. Toss thoroughly to coat the shrimp evenly with the seasoning.
- Prepare Corn Salsa: In a separate bowl, mix together thawed corn, diced red onion, jalapeño if using, chopped cilantro, lime juice, and salt. Set this salsa aside to allow flavors to meld.
- Grill Shrimp: Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium heat. Place the seasoned shrimp on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until the shrimp are opaque and cooked through.
- Make Creamy Garlic Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, chopped cilantro, lime juice, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until the sauce is smooth and well combined.
- Assemble Bowls: Divide the prepared corn salsa evenly among four bowls. Top each bowl with the grilled shrimp and sliced avocado. Drizzle generously with the creamy garlic sauce, and garnish as desired before serving.
Notes
- For extra heat, include jalapeño in the corn salsa and cayenne pepper in the shrimp marinade.
- Use fresh shrimp for best flavor, but frozen thawed shrimp works well too.
- If a grill is unavailable, use a grill pan or a broiler to cook the shrimp.
- The creamy garlic sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Serve this bowl with rice or quinoa for a more filling meal.
