The sun is setting, casting a golden glow over the grill as I toss on plump, marinated shrimp, filling the air with a comforting, smoky scent. This Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce is the perfect dish to capture that easygoing vibe of warm evenings. In just 30 minutes, you’ll create a satisfying meal that’s not only a feast for the eyes but also a well-rounded dinner ideal for busy weeknights or relaxed gatherings with friends. With its zesty corn salsa and creamy garlic sauce, this recipe brings a delightful mix of flavors and textures, making it a versatile favorite for everyone at the table. Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with this fresh and delicious bowl?
Why Is This Shrimp Bowl So Irresistible?
Freshness at its finest: This Grilled Shrimp Bowl combines tender, flavorful shrimp with creamy avocado and zesty corn salsa for an explosion of taste. Quick and easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. Versatile delight: Swap shrimp for grilled chicken or even tofu for a tasty vegetarian option. Crowd-pleaser appeal: The bright colors and stunning presentation are sure to impress your family and friends. Plus, check out my Garlic Parmesan Chicken recipe for more flavorful options to try!
Grilled Shrimp Bowl Ingredients
For the Shrimp
- Large Shrimp – Use peeled and deveined shrimp for ease and quick cooking.
- Olive Oil – Helps seasonings adhere and adds moisture for grilling.
- Paprika – Adds vibrant color and flavor; substitute with chili powder for heat.
- Garlic Powder – Provides depth of flavor; fresh minced garlic can be used instead.
- Salt & Black Pepper – Essential seasonings to elevate the overall taste.
- Cayenne Pepper (optional) – Spice it up as per your preference for added heat.
For the Corn Salsa
- Frozen Corn (thawed) – The sweet base for your salsa; fresh corn works wonderfully too.
- Red Onion – Adds a crunchy texture and sharp flavor; green onions can be a good substitute.
- Cilantro – Delivers a burst of freshness; feel free to omit if you’re not a fan.
- Jalapeño (optional) – Choose the quantity based on your spice comfort level.
- Lime Juice – Brightens the salsa with acidity; a key ingredient for zesty flavor.
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce
- Mayonnaise – The creamy base of the sauce; Greek yogurt can lighten it up if desired.
- Sour Cream – Enhances creaminess; substitute with more mayonnaise or yogurt if needed.
- Lemon Juice – Adds a refreshing zing to the creamy sauce.
- Clove of Garlic – Freshly minced for maximum flavor; garlic powder is an alternative.
For Assembly
- Avocado – Brings creaminess and healthy fats to the bowl; slice or mash as preferred.
- Sesame Seeds & Green Onions – Garnish for added flavor and beautiful presentation.
This Grilled Shrimp Bowl not only satisfies cravings but fills your dinner table with colors and textures that celebrate fresh ingredients. Enjoy crafting this easy dinner that’s perfect for any occasion!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce
Step 1: Prep Shrimp
In a mixing bowl, combine the peeled and deveined large shrimp with olive oil. Sprinkle in paprika, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if using). Toss until all the shrimp are evenly coated. Let them marinate for about 10 minutes to lock in flavor while you gather other ingredients.
Step 2: Make Corn Salsa
In another bowl, mix together the thawed frozen corn, diced red onion, chopped jalapeño (if using), cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Stir gently until thoroughly combined. Set this vibrant corn salsa aside to let the flavors meld while you move on to grilling the shrimp.
Step 3: Grill Shrimp
Preheat your grill to medium heat, approximately 375°F (190°C). Once heated, place the marinated shrimp on the grill. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, signaling they are perfectly done. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking!
Step 4: Prepare Creamy Garlic Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. This sauce will add a delicious richness to your Grilled Shrimp Bowl, so make sure all ingredients are well blended. Set it aside for assembling your bowl.
Step 5: Assemble Bowl
Take your serving bowls and begin layering the components. Start with a scoop of the zesty corn salsa, then add the beautifully grilled shrimp on top. Finally, slice or mash the avocado and place it alongside the shrimp. This colorful combination creates a feast for the eyes as well!
Step 6: Finish with Sauce
Generously drizzle your creamy garlic sauce over the assembled shrimp bowl. For an extra touch, sprinkle sesame seeds and sliced green onions on top for garnish. This final flourish not only enhances the presentation but adds wonderful flavor to your Grilled Shrimp Bowl.
Step 7: Serve Immediately
Your Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce is now ready to enjoy! Serve it right away while everything is fresh and vibrant. Gather your loved ones and savor this delightful meal together for an unforgettable dining experience.
What to Serve with Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce
Elevate your dinner experience with perfect pairings that enhance the vibrant flavors of this delightful bowl.
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Cilantro Lime Rice: The fragrant citrus notes complement the shrimp while adding a light and fluffy texture alongside the dish.
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Garlic Bread: Crunchy, buttery slices bring a hearty contrast to the meal, perfect for sopping up any remaining creamy sauce.
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Roasted Asparagus: Earthy, tender asparagus spears add a touch of elegance, their slight char balancing the sweetness of corn salsa.
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Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad packed with greens, cucumber, and a tangy vinaigrette brightens the overall meal and keeps it light.
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Mango Salsa: Sweet and spicy, this adds another layer of flavor to your bowl, perfectly complementing the shrimp and avocado.
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Chardonnay: A chilled glass of this wine, with its crisp acidity, enhances the coastal vibe of your dinner and pairs wonderfully with seafood.
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Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a silky chocolate mousse rounds off your meal with sweetness, balancing the zesty and savory flavors nicely.
Grilled Shrimp Bowl Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own with these delicious tweaks that will surely entice your taste buds!
- Chicken Swap: Replace large shrimp with grilled chicken for a hearty alternative that complements the bowl’s flavors beautifully.
- Tofu Option: For a vegetarian twist, substitute shrimp with firm tofu; marinate it similarly for a satisfying plant-based option.
- Spice it Up: Increase the heat by adding diced chili peppers or a dash of hot sauce to the corn salsa. Ignite your senses with a little fiery kick!
- Herb Boost: Swap cilantro for fresh basil or parsley to give your corn salsa a fresh, aromatic flair that’s uniquely delightful.
- Extra Crunch: Mix in diced bell peppers or cucumbers with the corn salsa for a refreshing texture that enhances the overall experience.
- Creamy Swap: Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a tangy, lighter creamy garlic sauce that still retains richness and flavor.
- Vegan Dresser: Opt for avocado or cashew cream in place of sour cream to keep the sauce vegan while still creamy and delicious.
- Citrus Twist: Experiment with different citrus juices like orange or grapefruit for your salsa to add a bright, fruity layer that surprises the palate.
And if you’re looking for more delicious inspirations, don’t miss out on my delightful Street Corn Bowl or the mouthwatering Garlic Butter Beef that can easily be customized to suit your dinner desires!
Storage Tips for Grilled Shrimp Bowl
Fridge: Store leftover components such as corn salsa and creamy garlic sauce in airtight containers for up to 3 days; this keeps them fresh and flavorful.
Freezer: If you have extra grilled shrimp, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: When ready to eat, reheat shrimp gently in a skillet over low heat, just until warmed through to retain their tenderness and flavor.
Serving Suggestions: Assemble the bowl fresh each time you serve, as a mix of components can lead to sogginess; keep elements separate until mealtime.
Expert Tips for Grilled Shrimp Bowl
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Pat Dry Shrimp: Ensure shrimp are patted dry before seasoning. This helps achieve a beautiful sear on the grilled shrimp bowl.
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Mind the Grill Temp: Preheat your grill to medium heat; if it’s too hot, shrimp may overcook. Look for a pink, opaque finish only.
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Swap Proteins: Experiment with different proteins! Grilled chicken is a tasty alternative to shrimp in this grilled shrimp bowl for a new flavor twist.
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Chill Ingredients: If you prefer cold salsa, prepare it ahead and chill. It enhances the flavors and adds a refreshing touch to your bowl.
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Store Separately: To keep leftovers fresh, store the corn salsa and creamy garlic sauce separately. Combining them can lead to sogginess.
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Add Crunch: For extra texture, toss in diced bell peppers or cucumber into the corn salsa. It’ll enhance your grilled shrimp bowl’s crunch factor!
Make Ahead Options
These Grilled Shrimp Bowls with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce are perfect for meal prep! 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. Simply mix the thawed corn, diced red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, and salt for the salsa, and whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, minced garlic, and lemon juice for the sauce. When you’re ready to serve, grill the shrimp (which can also be marinated up to 24 hours ahead) and assemble the bowls right before eating. This way, you’ll save time and still enjoy a vibrant, flavorful meal just as delicious as if made fresh!
Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting shrimp, look for large, firm, and translucent specimens. If buying fresh, they should smell briny but not fishy, and the shells should be intact. For frozen shrimp, ensure they’re peeled and deveined for quicker prep. Thaw them overnight in the fridge or under cold running water for about 15 minutes for ease.
How should I store leftovers?
Very! Store leftover corn salsa and creamy garlic sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you have leftover grilled shrimp, they can be stored in a container as well but should be consumed or reheated within that timeframe to keep them safe and fresh.
Can I freeze the grilled shrimp?
Absolutely! For freezing, lay the grilled shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, about 1 to 2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can last for up to 2 months. To reheat, sauté them gently in a pan over low heat until warmed through, avoiding overcooking for the best texture.
What if my shrimp are overcooked?
Oh no! If your shrimp are overcooked and a bit tough, you can try to salvage them by tossing them in a flavorful sauce, such as extra creamy garlic sauce or a dollop of avocado spread, which might help enhance moisture and flavor. When grilling, aim for a pink, opaque finish—only about 2-3 minutes on each side should do.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Very much! This recipe can easily be adapted for various dietary needs. If you’re avoiding dairy, you can substitute the mayonnaise and sour cream in the creamy garlic sauce with avocado or a plant-based yogurt. Additionally, make sure to check for any allergies to shrimp or other ingredients, and feel free to replace them with chicken or firm tofu for a vegetarian option.
What should I serve with the grilled shrimp bowl?
Great question! For a more filling meal, try serving the Grilled Shrimp Bowl alongside rice or quinoa. These options not only bulk up the dish but also complement the vibrant flavors of the shrimp and corn salsa wonderfully!
Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce: A Fresh Twist
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine the peeled and deveined large shrimp with olive oil. Sprinkle in paprika, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if using). Toss until all the shrimp are evenly coated. Let them marinate for about 10 minutes.
- In another bowl, mix together the thawed frozen corn, diced red onion, chopped jalapeño (if using), cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Stir gently until thoroughly combined.
- Preheat your grill to medium heat, approximately 375°F (190°C). Place the marinated shrimp on the grill. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
- Take your serving bowls and begin layering the components. Start with a scoop of the corn salsa, then add the grilled shrimp on top. Finally, slice or mash the avocado.
- Generously drizzle your creamy garlic sauce over the assembled bowl. Sprinkle sesame seeds and sliced green onions on top for garnish.
- Serve immediately while everything is fresh and vibrant.
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