Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce

If you’re looking for a meal that bursts with flavor and is oh-so-simple to prepare, let me introduce you to my go-to favorite: the Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce. This dish is a celebration of fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors that come together in a delightful bowl. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual family gathering, this recipe is sure to impress everyone at the table.

What I love most about this bowl is how it manages to be both healthy and indulgent at the same time. The smoky grilled shrimp pairs perfectly with creamy avocado and sweet corn salsa, creating a dish that feels special without being complicated. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll quickly become part of your dinner rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick preparation: It takes just 30 minutes from start to finish—perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Flavor explosion: The combination of grilled shrimp, zesty corn salsa, and creamy sauce will make your taste buds dance.
• Versatile meal: Great for lunch or dinner; enjoy it as a hearty bowl or as part of a larger spread.
• Make-ahead friendly: Prepare the components in advance for easy assembly when you’re ready to eat.
• Family-approved: Everyone loves digging into their own colorful bowl; it’s fun and customizable!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is key to making this Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce shine. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious dish:

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)
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp chopped cilantro
• Salt to taste

Base for the Bowl

• Cooked rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with your own twists. Here are some ideas:

• Swap the protein: Try using grilled chicken or tofu instead of shrimp for a different flavor profile.
• Add more veggies: Toss in diced tomatoes or shredded carrots into your corn salsa for extra crunch.
• Make it spicy: Add jalapeños or switch out the hot sauce for something spicier if you like heat!
• Change up the base: Use brown rice or even lettuce wraps instead of quinoa for a lighter option.

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 your shrimp into this flavorful marinade and let them sit for about 15–20 minutes. This step infuses the shrimp with all those delicious spices!

Step 2: Prepare the Corn Salsa

While your shrimp is marinating, grab another bowl and combine corn, diced bell pepper, chopped green onions, cilantro, lime juice, and salt. Give it a good mix! Allow it to chill while you prepare everything else—this helps develop those wonderful flavors.

Step 3: Mash the Avocado

Next up is making that creamy avocado mash! Scoop out your ripe avocados into a bowl. Add lime juice along with salt and pepper; mash until creamy but still slightly chunky. This adds rich creaminess to your bowl that complements everything so nicely.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

Now let’s whip up that creamy sauce! In another bowl, whisk together mayo (or Greek yogurt), lime juice, hot sauce (if using), garlic powder, smoked paprika, chopped cilantro, and salt. If you want it thinner for drizzling over your bowl later on, just add a splash of water until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 5: Grill the Shrimp

Heat up your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add in those marinated shrimp. Grill them for about 2–3 minutes per side until they turn pink and have lovely grill marks—this adds great flavor!

Step 6: Assemble the Bowl

It’s time for assembly! Start by adding cooked rice or quinoa as your base in each bowl. Then layer on that vibrant corn salsa followed by generous spoonfuls of avocado mash. Top off each bowl with grilled shrimp and drizzle on that creamy sauce. Don’t forget a sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top!

And there you have it—a beautiful Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce that’s as tasty as it is colorful! Enjoy every bite!

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

To ensure your Grilled Shrimp Bowl is bursting with flavor and texture, keep these handy tips in mind!

• Choose the Right Shrimp: Opt for large, fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture. Frozen shrimp can work too—just make sure to thaw them properly before marinating.

• Don’t Skip the Marinade Time: Allowing the shrimp to marinate for at least 15-20 minutes lets the spices penetrate, resulting in a more flavorful dish.

• Get Creative with the Sauce: Feel free to adjust the creaminess and spice level of your sauce by experimenting with different types of yogurt or adding more hot sauce if you enjoy a kick.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: When possible, use fresh corn and ripe avocados. Fresh ingredients not only enhance flavor but also add vibrant colors to your bowl.

• Grill to Perfection: Keep an eye on your shrimp as they grill; overcooking can make them rubbery. Aim for a quick cook time until they’re just pink and charred.

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

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

Garnishes

• Lime Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lime brightens up the flavors and adds a refreshing zest.
• Chopped Fresh Cilantro: This herb not only complements but also gives a burst of color on top of your bowl.
• Sliced Jalapeños: For those who enjoy heat, add sliced jalapeños for an extra spicy kick.

Side Dishes

• Crispy Tortilla Chips: Perfect for scooping up any leftover salsa or avocado mash, these chips add crunch and fun!
• Black Bean Salad: A simple mix of black beans, corn, tomatoes, and lime juice offers a hearty side filled with protein and fiber.
• Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini or bell peppers grilled alongside shrimp provide additional nutrition and flavor.
• Cilantro Lime Rice: Lightly seasoned rice with cilantro and lime complements the bowl beautifully while adding a fluffy base.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce will not only taste incredible but also look stunning on your table. Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce is perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip up the components ahead of time, making it a breeze to enjoy on busier days.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover shrimp, corn salsa, and avocado mash separately in airtight containers.
• Keep the creamy sauce in a separate container to maintain its freshness.
• Consume leftovers within 3 days for optimal taste and quality.

Freezing

• While it’s best to enjoy this dish fresh, you can freeze the shrimp and corn salsa.
• Place them in freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible.
• Use within 1 month for the best flavor. Note that the avocado mash does not freeze well.

Reheating

• Thaw shrimp and corn salsa in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
• Reheat shrimp on a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, about 2-3 minutes.
• Avoid reheating avocado mash; instead, prepare fresh if needed.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delicious recipe!

Can I make the Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce spicy?

Absolutely! Adjust the heat by adding more hot sauce to your creamy sauce or incorporating diced jalapeños into your corn salsa.

What can I substitute for shrimp in the Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce?

You can use grilled chicken or chickpeas for a flavorful alternative. Both options pair beautifully with the corn salsa and creamy sauce.

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

The total time is approximately 30 minutes—20 minutes for prep and 10 minutes for cooking. A speedy option for busy weeknights!

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

Yes! Just make sure to properly thaw frozen shrimp before marinating and grilling them for best results.

Final Thoughts

This Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce is a delightful dish that combines vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients. It’s not only quick to prepare but also brings a festive touch to your dining table. I hope you enjoy making this flavorful bowl as much as I do! Don’t hesitate to share your experience or any variations you try—I’d love to hear how it turns out!