Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce

If you’re looking for a meal that’s both vibrant and satisfying, you’ve come to the right place! This Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce has quickly become a favorite in my kitchen. It’s not just the smoky, grilled shrimp or the creamy avocado that makes this dish special; it’s the way all these fresh ingredients come together to create a colorful feast. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a gathering with friends, this bowl offers a taste of sunshine and joy.

The best part? It’s super quick to whip up! With just a few simple steps, you can have this deliciousness on the table in no time. Plus, it’s packed with protein and nutrients—perfect for keeping everyone happy and healthy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With only 30 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy this delightful bowl any night of the week.
• Flavor-Packed: Each bite is bursting with fresh flavors that will keep you coming back for more.
• Healthy Ingredients: Filled with wholesome ingredients like shrimp and avocado, it’s a guilt-free treat!
• Customizable: You can easily adapt it to your taste preferences or what’s in season.
• Family-Friendly: Even the pickiest eaters will love digging into this colorful bowl!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients for our Grilled Shrimp Bowl. You’ll find everything is easy to source and perfect for creating those vibrant layers of flavor!

For the Shrimp

• 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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can easily mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try chicken or tofu instead of shrimp for a different twist.
• Change up the grains: Serve it over brown rice, quinoa, or even mixed greens for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some diced tomatoes or jalapeños for extra freshness and heat.
• Make it spicy: Increase the hot sauce in the creamy dressing for an extra 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 and let them sit for about 15–20 minutes. This step is crucial as it infuses your shrimp with all those delicious spices before grilling.

Step 2: Prepare the Corn Salsa

While your shrimp is marinating, grab another bowl. Combine corn, diced red bell pepper, chopped green onions, cilantro, lime juice, and salt. Give it a good mix and let it chill in the fridge while you prep everything else. Chilling helps meld those bright flavors together!

Step 3: Mash the Avocado

Scoop out two ripe avocados into a bowl. Add lime juice along with salt and pepper. Mash until creamy but slightly chunky—you want some texture here! This avocado mash adds creaminess that perfectly balances the other ingredients.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In another bowl, whisk together mayo (or Greek yogurt), lime juice, hot sauce if using, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cilantro, and salt. If needed, adjust thickness by adding a splash of water until you reach your desired consistency. This creamy sauce is going to be your secret weapon—deliciously drizzled over everything!

Step 5: Grill the Shrimp

Heat up your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add shrimp and cook them for about 2–3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and lightly charred. Grilling adds such wonderful flavor—you’ll love that smoky touch!

Step 6: Assemble the Bowl

Now comes the fun part! Start with a base of cooked rice or quinoa in each bowl. Top generously with corn salsa followed by creamy avocado mash and those beautifully grilled shrimp. Drizzle your homemade creamy sauce on top and finish off with fresh cilantro as garnish. Enjoy every colorful bite!

And there you have it—a delightful Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce that’s sure to impress anyone who gets to dig into it! Enjoy your meal!

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

Creating this delicious Grilled Shrimp Bowl is easy, but a few pro tips can take your dish from good to great!

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh shrimp and ripe avocados will enhance the flavor and texture of your bowl. Fresh ingredients make all the difference in a dish that’s meant to shine!

• Marinate Longer for More Flavor: If time allows, marinate the shrimp for up to an hour instead of just 15-20 minutes. This extra time allows the spices to infuse deeper into the shrimp, boosting their smoky flavor.

• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Keep an eye on your shrimp while grilling! They cook quickly (just 2-3 minutes per side) and become rubbery if overcooked. Perfectly grilled shrimp should be pink and firm.

• Customize Your Corn Salsa: Feel free to add in other ingredients like diced jalapeños or chopped tomatoes to personalize your corn salsa. This flexibility means you can adjust the heat and flavors according to your preference.

• Prep Ahead for Easy Meals: Make the corn salsa and avocado mash ahead of time and store them in the fridge. This makes assembling your bowls a breeze on busy nights!

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

Serving this vibrant dish is all about presentation! A colorful bowl not only looks appealing but also makes each bite a delightful experience.

Garnishes

• Lime Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lime juice adds brightness and enhances all the flavors in the bowl.
• Extra Cilantro: Sprinkling additional chopped cilantro on top provides a pop of color and freshness.
• Sliced Jalapeños: For those who enjoy a kick of spice, adding sliced jalapeños can elevate your dish with extra heat.

Side Dishes

• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and a lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the shrimp bowl perfectly.
• Chips and Guacamole: Crispy tortilla chips paired with guacamole make for a fun side to munch on while enjoying your meal.
• Grilled Vegetables: Tossed zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus on the grill bring out their natural sweetness, which pairs beautifully with shrimp.
• Black Bean Salad: A refreshing black bean salad made with corn, diced tomatoes, onions, and lime dressing adds protein and fiber while enhancing the overall flavor profile of your meal.

Now you’re ready to create a stunning Grilled Shrimp Bowl that not only tastes amazing but also looks incredible on your dining table! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce is perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare various components ahead of time to enjoy a fresh, delicious meal throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the grilled shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Keep corn salsa in a separate container to maintain its freshness and crunch, also good for up to 2 days.
• Avocado mash can be tricky as it browns quickly; store it in a tightly sealed container with plastic wrap pressed against the surface to minimize air exposure.

Freezing

• Freeze cooked shrimp by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Corn salsa can be frozen as well, but keep in mind that the texture may change after thawing; use within 2-3 months.
• It’s best not to freeze avocado mash as it doesn’t thaw well.

Reheating

• For shrimp, reheat gently in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, avoiding overcooking.
• Thaw corn salsa overnight in the fridge before serving.
• The avocado mash is best served fresh, but if needed, you can add a little lime juice and stir before serving.

FAQs

If you’re wondering more about this tasty dish, here are some common questions!

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

Absolutely! You can substitute shrimp with grilled chicken or tofu for a similar flavor profile.

What should I serve with the Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce?

This bowl pairs wonderfully with a side of tortilla chips or a light salad for added crunch and freshness.

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

Feel free to add your favorite veggies like cherry tomatoes or cucumber. You can also swap out the creamy sauce for a yogurt-based dressing if you prefer!

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

Yes! Just ensure they are fully thawed and pat them dry before marinating and grilling.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating this vibrant Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce! It’s not just a recipe; it’s an invitation to gather around the table and share great food. Enjoy making this dish as much as you will enjoy eating it—happy cooking!