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

If you’re looking for a dish that combines vibrant flavors with a healthy twist, then you’ve come to the right place! This Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce is one of my all-time favorites. It’s not just delicious; it brings together fresh ingredients in a way that makes every bite feel like a celebration. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy family gathering, this bowl is perfect for any occasion.

What truly makes this recipe special is the balance of textures and flavors. The grilled shrimp are succulent and flavorful, while the corn salsa adds a delightful crunch and sweetness. And let’s not forget that creamy garlic sauce that ties everything together! Trust me, once you try this dish, it will become a staple in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: In just 25 minutes, you can whip up this wholesome meal—perfect for those hectic evenings!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the combination of juicy shrimp and zesty corn salsa.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the corn salsa and creamy sauce ahead of time for an even easier mealtime.
• Vibrant Flavors: Each element complements the others beautifully, ensuring every bite is filled with flavor.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with healthy fats from avocado and protein from shrimp, this bowl is good for your heart too!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s dive into the simple and wholesome ingredients that make this dish so amazing! These are easy to find and come together beautifully to create our delicious bowl.

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 its flexibility! Feel free to customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: If shrimp isn’t your thing, try grilled chicken or tofu for a plant-based option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in bell peppers or cherry tomatoes for extra color and nutrients.
• Spice it up: If you love heat, add more jalapeños or serve with hot sauce for an extra kick!
• Make it grain-friendly: Serve over quinoa or brown rice for added texture and fiber.

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 step infuses the shrimp with flavor before they hit the grill.

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 salt. Gently stir until combined. This fresh salsa adds a sweet crunch that perfectly complements the grilled shrimp.

Step 3: Grill the Shrimp

Preheat your grill to medium heat. Place the seasoned shrimp on skewers if desired or directly on the grill grates. Grill each side for about 2-3 minutes or until they turn pink and opaque. This quick cooking locks in their natural juices and keeps them tender!

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

In a small mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, chopped cilantro, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth. This creamy garlic sauce brings richness to each bite and balances out all those vibrant flavors.

Step 5: Assemble the Bowls

To assemble your bowls, start by dividing the corn salsa between two serving bowls. Top each with grilled shrimp and sliced or mashed avocado. Drizzle generously with creamy garlic sauce and sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions on top for that finishing touch!

Enjoy your delicious Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce! It’s sure to bring smiles around your table.

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

Creating the perfect Grilled Shrimp Bowl is all about balancing flavors and textures, so here are some helpful tips to ensure your dish is a hit!

• Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp not only taste better but also have a firmer texture. If possible, buy shrimp from a local fish market for the best quality.

• Let It Marinate: Allowing the shrimp to marinate for at least 15 minutes before grilling enhances the flavor profile. The spices will penetrate the shrimp more deeply, resulting in a deliciously seasoned bite.

• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Keep an eye on your shrimp while grilling; overcooked shrimp can become tough and rubbery. They should be opaque and slightly firm when done.

• Adjust Spice Levels: If you’re sensitive to heat, feel free to skip the cayenne pepper or jalapeño. On the other hand, if you love spice, add a bit more cayenne or even some chili flakes to amp up the heat!

• Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to get creative with toppings! Additional toppings like diced tomatoes, sliced radishes, or even a sprinkle of cheese can add another layer of flavor.

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

Serving your Grilled Shrimp Bowl can be just as fun as making it! Here are some ideas to present this colorful and flavorful dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped Cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds brightness and complements the flavors in both the corn salsa and creamy sauce.
• Lime Wedges: Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of citrus that enhances every bite.
• Crushed Tortilla Chips: Add some crunch by sprinkling crushed tortilla chips on top of your bowl—this brings a delightful texture contrast!

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad made with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette pairs wonderfully with this bowl, adding a refreshing touch.
• Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal grilled vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus provide a smoky flavor that complements the shrimp perfectly.
• Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf infused with herbs makes for a great base under your grilled shrimp bowl while adding heartiness to the meal.
• Black Bean Salad: A simple black bean salad mixed with corn and avocado offers added protein and fiber alongside vibrant flavors that match the main dish.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in mind, you’re well on your way to creating an unforgettable dining experience! Enjoy every delicious bite of your Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make components ahead of time and enjoy a fresh, satisfying meal throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover grilled shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Keep the corn salsa separate to maintain its freshness; it can last for about 3 days in the fridge.
• The creamy garlic sauce can be stored for up to a week, also in an airtight container.

Freezing

• While it’s best to consume this dish fresh, you can freeze the grilled shrimp for up to a month. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before using.
• Avoid freezing the avocado and corn salsa, as they do not hold up well once thawed.

Reheating

• To reheat the shrimp, place them on a grill or stovetop pan over medium heat until warmed through, usually about 3-5 minutes.
• If you’ve made extra creamy garlic sauce, simply give it a good stir before using it. It doesn’t need reheating!

FAQs

If you have questions about this recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

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

Absolutely! You can use grilled chicken or tofu instead of shrimp if you prefer a different protein source. Just adjust cooking times accordingly based on your choice.

How spicy is the Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce?

The spiciness comes from the optional cayenne pepper and jalapeño. You can omit these ingredients if you prefer a milder flavor.

Can I make the Creamy Garlic Sauce dairy-free?

Yes! You can substitute vegan mayonnaise and dairy-free sour cream to create a delicious and creamy sauce without dairy.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! The components store well separately, making it easy to prepare meals ahead of time while keeping flavors fresh.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce. It’s a delightful combination of flavors that brings a burst of freshness to your table. Whether you’re enjoying it for lunch or dinner, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. Give it a try and savor every bite—happy cooking!

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