Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce

If you’re looking for a meal that’s as vibrant as it is delicious, you’ve come to the right place! This Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce is one of those recipes that I keep coming back to. Not only does it pack a punch of flavor, but it also feels like a celebration in a bowl. With smoky grilled shrimp, creamy avocado, and zesty corn salsa, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or casual family gatherings.

What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can whip it up in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for those nights when you want something quick yet satisfying. Plus, the bright colors and fresh ingredients make dinner feel special—like you’re treating yourself to a little fiesta!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Prep and cook in just 30 minutes—perfect for busy evenings!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves a bowl filled with tasty shrimp and fresh veggies.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and wholesome flavors that nourish your body.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Great for meal prep; just store components separately until ready to serve.
• Flavor Explosion: Each bite combines smoky, creamy, and zesty elements that truly delight your taste buds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Shrimp Marinade:

• 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

One of the best things about this Grilled Shrimp Bowl is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on your tastes or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Try chicken or tofu for a different twist!
• Add more veggies: Incorporate diced tomatoes or shredded carrots into your corn salsa.
• Change the base: Use brown rice or even a salad mix instead of quinoa for a lighter option.
• Make it spicy: Toss in some jalapeños or add extra hot sauce to the creamy dressing for a kick!

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

Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp

In a bowl, mix together olive oil, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Toss the shrimp in this flavorful marinade until they’re well coated. Let them sit for about 15–20 minutes while you prepare other elements. This step is crucial as it infuses the shrimp with all those amazing spices!

Step 2: Prepare the Corn Salsa

In another bowl, combine corn, diced red bell pepper, chopped green onions, cilantro, lime juice, and salt. Give it all a good mix and then pop it in the fridge to chill while everything else cooks. Chilling helps meld those fresh flavors together!

Step 3: Mash the Avocado

Scoop out your ripe avocados into a mixing bowl. Add lime juice along with salt and pepper; mash until creamy but still slightly chunky. This avocado mash not only adds creaminess but also balances out all of those bold flavors.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In a separate bowl, whisk together mayo or Greek yogurt with lime juice, hot sauce (if using), garlic powder, smoked paprika, cilantro, and salt. Adjust thickness by adding a splash of water if needed. This creamy sauce adds richness and ties everything together so beautifully.

Step 5: Grill the Shrimp

Heat up your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook each shrimp for about 2–3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are lightly charred. The grilling brings out their natural sweetness while adding that lovely smoky flavor.

Step 6: Assemble the Bowl

Start by adding your cooked rice or quinoa at the bottom of a bowl. Layer on corn salsa next followed by avocado mash and grilled shrimp. Finally, drizzle generously with that creamy sauce you made earlier! Garnish with fresh cilantro for an extra touch of freshness.

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

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

Get ready to impress with these handy tips that will help you make the most delicious grilled shrimp bowl!

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh shrimp and ripe avocados makes a significant difference in flavor and texture. The fresher the ingredients, the more vibrant and delicious your bowl will be.

• Let the Shrimp Marinate: Allowing the shrimp to sit in the marinade for at least 15-20 minutes enhances their flavor. This step infuses the shrimp with spices and helps achieve that irresistible smoky taste when grilled.

• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Cook shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque, usually about 2-3 minutes per side. Overcooking can lead to a rubbery texture, so keep an eye on them!

• Customize Your Salsa: Feel free to add other veggies like diced tomatoes or jalapeños to your corn salsa for an extra kick! This customization allows you to tailor the flavors to your liking while adding color and crunch.

• Make Extra Sauce: If you love sauces as much as I do, consider doubling the creamy sauce recipe. It’s perfect for drizzling over leftovers or using as a dip for veggies!

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

Serving this colorful grilled shrimp bowl is all about presentation and pairing it with delightful sides that enhance its flavors.

Garnishes

• Fresh Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime adds an extra zesty kick, brightening up all the flavors in your bowl.
• Sliced Jalapeños: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, fresh jalapeño slices can provide just the right amount of spice.
• Chopped Green Onions: Sprinkling some chopped green onions on top not only adds a burst of color but also enhances the dish’s freshness.

Side Dishes

• Simple Green Salad: A light salad made with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the bowl while adding freshness.
• Grilled Vegetables: Grilling seasonal vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers alongside your shrimp can create a cohesive meal that’s both colorful and nutritious.
• Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with cilantro and lime juice serves as a flavorful base that pairs perfectly with your shrimp bowl.
• Black Bean Salad: A cold black bean salad mixed with corn, bell peppers, and lime dressing brings an extra layer of protein and fiber to your meal.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in hand, you’re set to create not just a meal but an experience that’s bursting with flavor! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce is perfect for meal prep! Not only is it quick to whip up, but it also stores well, allowing you to savor those delightful flavors throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store individual components (shrimp, corn salsa, avocado mash, and sauce) in airtight containers.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• For best results, add the avocado mash just before serving to maintain its freshness.

Freezing

• The shrimp can be frozen after grilling. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.
• Corn salsa can also be frozen; however, the texture may change slightly after thawing.
• Avoid freezing the avocado mash and creamy sauce as they do not freeze well.

Reheating

• Thaw shrimp and corn salsa in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• For shrimp, use a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until warmed through.
• Corn salsa can be served cold or heated briefly on the stove.
• Enjoy fresh avocado mash and creamy sauce directly from the fridge.

FAQs

Have questions? Here are some common queries about our delicious recipe!

Can I make this Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce without grilling?

Absolutely! You can sauté the shrimp in a pan over medium-high heat for a similar flavor. Just follow the same marinade and cooking time.

How can I customize my Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce?

Feel free to add your favorite veggies such as diced tomatoes or black beans. You can also swap shrimp for chicken or tofu if you prefer!

What other grains can I use with this recipe?

Instead of rice or quinoa, consider using farro or bulgur wheat for a unique twist. They both add great texture and flavor!

Can I prepare the corn salsa ahead of time?

Yes! The corn salsa tastes even better after a few hours of chilling. You can make it up to one day in advance for maximum flavor development.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce brings excitement to your dining table! It’s truly a dish that combines vibrant flavors and healthy ingredients into one satisfying bowl. Whether you’re enjoying it on a busy weeknight or sharing it with friends at a casual gathering, I’m sure you’ll love every bite. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your creations!