Grilled Shrimp Bowl Bliss (Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce)

If you’re craving a meal that sings with vibrant flavors and feels like a fiesta in a bowl, look no further than this Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce! Imagine succulent, perfectly grilled shrimp cradled on a bed of jewel-like corn salsa, fresh creamy avocado, and a dreamy garlic sauce that ties it all together. This dish is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s a heart-smart meal that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. Ready to dive into the flavors of summer? Let’s go!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Get ready to whisk your taste buds away on a delightful journey with this amazing bowl of goodness!

– Big, Bold Flavors: The smoky grilled shrimp and zesty corn salsa are a match made in heaven.
– Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, everyone will be coming back for seconds!
– Flexible & Fast: Whip this up in just 25 minutes, making it a go-to for busy weeknights.
– Healthy & Wholesome: Packed with fresh ingredients and healthy fats, it’s a guilt-free indulgence.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we embark on our culinary adventure, let’s gather the stars of our show! These ingredients come together to create a heavenly bowl of delight. The *fresh avocado* and *smoky paprika* are absolute game-changers, elevating this dish to a whole new level of deliciousness.

– 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)
– 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
– 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
– 1 avocado (sliced or mashed)
– Sesame seeds (for garnish)
– Green onions (chopped, for garnish)

*Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.*

Variations

The beauty of the Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce is its versatility! Here are some fun twists you can try:

– Go Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, so enjoy without worries!
– Add Extra Protein: Toss in some black beans or grilled chicken for a protein boost.
– Make it Spicier: Love the heat? Add more cayenne pepper or a splash of your favorite hot sauce!
– Swap the Dressing: Try a tangy vinaigrette or yogurt-based sauce for a unique flavor profile.
– Colorful Additions: Toss in diced bell peppers or cherry tomatoes for extra color and crunch.

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

Let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your delicious shrimp bowl.

Step 1: Prep the Shrimp

In a mixing bowl, combine the shrimp with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if you’re feeling adventurous). Toss everything together until the shrimp is beautifully coated in those vibrant spices.

Step 2: Make the Corn Salsa

In another bowl, combine the thawed corn, diced red onion, minced jalapeño (if using), chopped cilantro, lime juice, and a sprinkle of salt. Mix gently and let it sit while those flavors mingle and dance together.

Step 3: Grill the Shrimp

Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium heat. Grill the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Keep an eye on them—nobody likes rubbery shrimp!

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, chopped cilantro, lime juice, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy. This sauce will add the perfect velvety finish to your bowl!

Step 5: Assemble the Bowls

Grab your favorite bowls and start layering! Divide the corn salsa among them, followed by the grilled shrimp and creamy avocado (sliced, cubed, or mashed). Drizzle generously with the creamy garlic sauce, and don’t forget to sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions on top for that extra flair!

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

– Marinate for Extra Flavor: If you have time, let the shrimp marinate for 30 minutes before grilling to deepen the flavors.
– Use Fresh Ingredients: The fresher the ingredients, the more vibrant your dish will taste!
– Avoid Overcooking: Shrimp cooks quickly; watch closely so they remain juicy and tender.
– Customization Galore: Feel free to add or swap ingredients based on your preferences or what’s in your pantry!

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

Garnishes

Elevate your dish further with beautiful and flavorful garnishes! Try fresh lime wedges, a sprinkle of feta cheese, or a handful of microgreens for that gourmet touch.

Side Dishes

Pair your shrimp bowl with a refreshing side salad, hearty tortilla chips, or a light soup for a complete meal that will leave everyone satisfied!

Creative Ways to Present

Consider serving individual portions in mason jars for a fun picnic-style meal, or arrange everything on a large platter for a beautiful centerpiece at your next gathering. Lunchboxes filled with leftovers will be a hit too!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just be sure to store the sauce separately to maintain its creamy texture.

Freezing

While the shrimp bowl is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the shrimp (uncooked) if needed. Just remember, once cooked, shrimp doesn’t freeze well due to texture changes.

Reheating

Reheat the shrimp gently in the microwave or enjoy cold! The corn salsa and creamy sauce are delightful even when chilled.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them thoroughly before marinating and grilling.

Is this recipe spicy?
It can be! The heat level is adjustable based on your preference for cayenne pepper and jalapeños.

How do I make this gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free as written, so dig in without any concerns!

Can I prepare this in advance?
You can prep the corn salsa and shrimp marinade in advance, but it’s best to grill the shrimp and assemble the bowls just before serving for optimal freshness.

Final Thoughts

There you have it—a scrumptious Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce that’s sure to dazzle your taste buds and impress your friends and family. Whether for a quick weeknight dinner or a vibrant gathering, this vibrant bowl is a celebration of flavors and colors. So what are you waiting for? Grab your apron and whip up this delightful dish today! Your taste buds will thank you!