Name: Delicious Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado & Creamy Garlic Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Large shrimp (Peeled and deveined); 1 tbsp Olive oil (Consider avocado oil for a twist); 1 tsp Paprika (Smoked paprika intensifies flavor); 1/2 tsp Garlic powder (Fresh minced garlic can be used); 1/4 tsp Salt (Adjust to taste); 1/4 tsp Black pepper (Adjust to taste); 1/4 tsp Cayenne pepper (Optional for heat); 1 cup Frozen corn (Thawed); 1/2 cup Red onion (Diced); 1/4 cup Cilantro (Chopped); 1 Jalapeño (Optional); 1 Lime (Juiced); 1/2 cup Mayonnaise (Can substitute Greek yogurt); 1/4 cup Sour cream (Can substitute Greek yogurt); 1 tbsp Lemon juice (Can substitute lime juice); 1 clove Garlic (Minced); 1 Avocado (Sliced or mashed); Sesame seeds (For garnish); Green onions (For garnish)

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The sizzling sound of shrimp hitting the grill instantly transports me to sun-soaked beaches and coastal breezes. With summer vibes in full swing, I’ve been craving something light yet satisfying, which led me to create this delightful Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce. This easy dinner recipe is perfect for those evenings when you want a fresh, homemade meal in under 30 minutes. Picture tender, spicy shrimp paired with creamy avocado and a zesty corn salsa, making it a crowd-pleaser for both family gatherings and casual weeknight dinners. Plus, it’s customizable with your favorite ingredients, offering a fun twist every time. Ready to serve up a taste of the coast? Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Grilled Shrimp Bowl?

Bold flavors come together in this Grilled Shrimp Bowl, making it a standout dish that satisfies every craving. Quick prep time means you can whip this up in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights. Customizable ingredients allow you to adapt the recipe to your tastes, whether you’re feeling like adding extra veggies or trying a different protein. Sumptuous textures offer a delightful contrast, with tender shrimp, silky avocado, and crunchy corn salsa. Finally, crowd-pleasing appeal ensures this dish is perfect for sharing with family and friends at gatherings or casual dinners, reminiscent of summer days. Pair it with a side of Garlic Parmesan Pasta for a complete meal experience!

Grilled Shrimp Bowl Ingredients

For the Shrimp

Large shrimp (1 lb) – Fresh shrimp are the star of this dish; ensure they are peeled and deveined for smooth cooking.
Olive oil (1 tbsp) – This oil enhances flavor while sautéing; consider avocado oil for a different twist.
Paprika (1 tsp) – This spice brings smoky undertones; smoked paprika intensifies the flavor!
Garlic powder (½ tsp) – A quick way to impart garlic flavor; switch to fresh minced garlic for a bolder taste.
Salt (¼ tsp) and Black pepper (¼ tsp) – Essential for amplifying flavors; adjust to suit your palate.
Cayenne pepper (¼ tsp, optional) – For an added kick of heat; omit if you prefer milder flavors.

For the Corn Salsa

Frozen corn (1 cup, thawed) – The sweetness and texture come from corn, with fresh corn also being a fantastic choice in season.
Red onion (½ cup, diced) – Adds crunch and bite to the salsa; green onions can replace red for a milder taste.
Cilantro (¼ cup, chopped) – Fresh herb that brightens everything up; parsley is a good substitute if you’re not a fan.
Jalapeño (optional) – Spice up your salsa with this ingredient; just leave it out if you’d like a non-spicy version.
Lime (1, juiced) – This citrus balances the flavors; lemon juice works as an alternative.

For the Creamy Garlic Sauce

Mayonnaise (½ cup) – A rich base for the sauce, offering creaminess; Greek yogurt is a lighter option.
Sour cream (¼ cup) – This ingredient adds tang; feel free to use Greek yogurt for a similar texture.
Lemon juice (1 tbsp) – Brightens the sauce; can be swapped for lime juice for a different zing.
Garlic (1 clove, minced) – Fresh garlic enhances the overall flavor of the sauce; you can add more or less to taste.

For Assembly

Avocado (1, sliced or mashed) – Offers a creamy texture that elevates the entire bowl; guacamole can work in a pinch.
Sesame seeds and Green onions (for garnish) – These add a lovely finishing touch; simply skip if you don’t have them on hand.

This Grilled Shrimp Bowl combines fresh flavors and colorful ingredients, making it the perfect easy dinner choice any night of the week!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce

Step 1: Prepare Shrimp
Begin by placing the peeled and deveined large shrimp in a mixing bowl. Add in the olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if you’re using it. Toss everything together until the shrimp is evenly coated. Let the shrimp marinate for about 10 minutes while you prepare the corn salsa, allowing the spices to infuse into the seafood.

Step 2: Make Corn Salsa
In a separate bowl, combine the thawed corn, diced red onion, chopped cilantro, and the optional jalapeño for heat. Squeeze the juice of one lime over the mixture and sprinkle with a pinch of salt. Stir everything together thoroughly to ensure the flavors meld. Set the corn salsa aside and let it rest for a few minutes so the flavors can develop while you grill the shrimp.

Step 3: Grill Shrimp
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium heat, ensuring it’s hot enough by checking for a few drops of water to sizzle off. Once ready, arrange the marinated shrimp in a single layer on the grill. Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on one side until they turn pink and develop grill marks. Flip the shrimp and grill for another 2-3 minutes until fully cooked, then remove from heat.

Step 4: Prepare Creamy Sauce
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, minced garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This will be the delicious creamy garlic sauce that complements the grilled shrimp bowl beautifully. Set aside while you assemble the dish.

Step 5: Assemble Bowl
To create your beautiful Grilled Shrimp Bowl, start by layering the corn salsa at the bottom of each serving bowl. Next, place the grilled shrimp on top of the salsa, ensuring an even distribution. Add slices or a mash of avocado on the side, enhancing the bowl with its creamy texture and flavor contrast.

Step 6: Top and Serve
Drizzle the creamy garlic sauce generously over the shrimp and avocado layers. For a final touch, sprinkle sesame seeds and sliced green onions over the top for a burst of color and flavor. Serve immediately while everything is fresh and warm, ready to be enjoyed by family or friends!

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Make Ahead Options

These Grilled Shrimp Bowls with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce are perfect for busy home cooks! You can prepare the corn salsa and creamy garlic sauce up to 3 days in advance, storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. For the shrimp, marinate them for up to 24 hours before grilling to allow the flavors to penetrate. When you’re ready to finish the dish, simply grill the shrimp for about 4-6 minutes until they’re perfectly cooked, then assemble the bowls with the prepped ingredients. This approach saves you time and ensures a delicious meal ready in no time, all while keeping the flavors just as vibrant and delightful!

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

Creating an inviting table is easy when you have a vibrant bowl of flavors as the centerpiece. Let’s explore some delightful pairings to elevate your meal experience.

Crispy Garlic Bread: The crunch of toasted garlic bread perfectly complements the creamy sauce while soaking up any leftover flavors.
Seasoned Quinoa: A fluffy bed of quinoa brings a nutty flavor and enhances the protein content of your meal, making it heartier.
Grilled Veggie Skewers: Colorful veggies add a smoky edge and fresh elements that harmonize beautifully with the shrimp’s flavors. Perfect for adding more nutrition!
Zesty Cucumber Salsa: A refreshing cucumber salsa with lime and herbs provides a cool, bright contrast to the hot shrimp bowl, keeping your palate engaged.
Mixed Green Salad: Tossed greens with a light vinaigrette add freshness while balancing the richness of the creamy garlic sauce. Add avocado slices for extra creaminess!
Sparkling Lemonade: A fizzy drink with citrus notes cuts through the richness of the bowl, adding a refreshing twist to every bite.
Tropical Fruit Salad: A bowl of juicy, sweet fruits like pineapple and mango brings a delightful contrast to the savory elements, rounding out the meal perfectly.

Expert Tips for Grilled Shrimp Bowl

Dry the Shrimp: Pat shrimp dry before seasoning to ensure a good sear on the grill, enhancing flavor and texture.
Marinate for Flavor: Allow shrimp to marinate for at least 10 minutes for a burst of flavor in your grilled shrimp bowl.
Grill Properly: Preheat the grill to medium heat; this helps cook the shrimp evenly without drying them out.
Substitute Wisely: Consider using grilled chicken or tofu for your grilled shrimp bowl, offering a delightful variation.
Store Smart: Keep leftover salsa and sauce in separate airtight containers to maintain freshness for up to 3 days.
Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh herbs and in-season produce to elevate the taste of your grilled shrimp bowl.

Grilled Shrimp Bowl Variations

Feel free to explore these enticing variations to elevate your Grilled Shrimp Bowl and make it your own!

Chicken Swap: Substitute the shrimp with grilled chicken for a hearty alternative. Chicken adds a different texture and works well with all the flavors.
Vegetarian Delight: Use firm tofu in place of shrimp for a fantastic vegetarian option. Simply marinate and grill until golden brown for that satisfying bite.
Spicy Upgrade: Add extra cayenne or diced jalapeños for a real kick! Nothing wakes up the palate like a bit of heat, perfect for spicy food lovers.
Flavorful Marinade: Try marinating the shrimp in a mix of lime juice and spices overnight for an extra punch. Let those flavors meld for an unforgettable taste.
Tropical Twist: Mix in diced mango or pineapple to the corn salsa for a refreshing twist. The sweetness pairs perfectly with the creamy avocado and savory shrimp!
Nutty Crunch: Top with toasted slivered almonds or crushed peanuts for added crunch. The texture boost creates a lovely contrast with the creamy elements.
Dress It Up: Swap out the creamy garlic sauce for a zesty lime vinaigrette. A tangy dressing lightens the dish and adds brightness!
Extra Veggies: Incorporate bell peppers, zucchini, or even roasted asparagus into the bowl. These add beautiful color and boost the nutritional value.

As you get creative, don’t forget to pair this with sides like Garlic Butter Chicken or Glazed Salmon Garlic for a delightful dining experience!

How to Store and Freeze Grilled Shrimp Bowl

Fridge: Store leftover components like shrimp, corn salsa, and creamy sauce in separate airtight containers. They can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator while maintaining freshness.

Freezer: You can freeze grilled shrimp for up to 2 months. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a resealable bag.

Reheating: For the best texture, let shrimp thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Warm them gently in a skillet over medium heat to avoid drying out.

Salsa & Sauce: Keep the corn salsa and creamy garlic sauce separately; they’re perfect for fresh flavors and can last in the fridge for 2-3 days, enhancing your Grilled Shrimp Bowl experience!

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

How do I choose the best shrimp for my Grilled Shrimp Bowl?
Absolutely! When selecting shrimp, look for firm, moist, and translucent specimens. The shells should be free from dark spots or cracks, indicating freshness. Opt for wild-caught shrimp if possible, as they tend to have better flavor. If buying frozen shrimp, ensure they are sealed without ice crystals, as that may indicate they were thawed and refrozen.

What’s the best way to store leftovers from the Grilled Shrimp Bowl?
To maintain freshness, store the shrimp, corn salsa, and creamy sauce in separate airtight containers in the fridge. They can last up to 3 days. Make sure to cool the shrimp before sealing them for storage. This way, you can keep enjoying your delicious dinner for a few more days!

Can I freeze grilled shrimp? How?
Very much so! You can freeze grilled shrimp for up to 2 months. To do this, lay the grilled shrimp out in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a resealable bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently to avoid drying them out.

How do I reheat the shrimp without losing their flavor and texture?
Certainly! To reheat shrimp, first thaw them in the fridge overnight if frozen. Then, warm them gently in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes, turning occasionally to heat evenly. Avoid using high heat, as this can cause the shrimp to become tough. If you prefer, you can also reintroduce them to the grill for an added smoky flavor!

Are there any dietary considerations for this Grilled Shrimp Bowl?
Yes! This recipe is seafood-based, so it’s not suitable for those with shellfish allergies. However, it can easily be customized for other diets. For a vegetarian option, substitute shrimp with marinated grilled tofu or chickpeas. Additionally, for those avoiding dairy, use Greek yogurt in place of mayonnaise and sour cream in the creamy garlic sauce.

How do I make my corn salsa spicier?
Very! To add heat, include diced jalapeños or even a splash of hot sauce to your corn salsa. Start with a small amount, taste, and adjust until you reach your desired spice level. Alternatively, spice it up with a pinch of cayenne pepper for an easy kick!