Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce

If you’re looking for a vibrant and delicious meal that’s quick to whip up, you’ve come to the right place! This Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce is a family favorite in my home. It packs a punch of flavors and textures, from the smoky grilled shrimp to the creamy avocado and zesty corn salsa. Every bite feels like a celebration, making it perfect for anything from busy weeknights to laid-back family gatherings.

What I love most about this recipe is how fresh and satisfying it is. You can feel good about serving it because it’s loaded with wholesome ingredients. Plus, the colorful presentation always impresses guests! Whether you’re planning a casual dinner or prepping for lunch throughout the week, this bowl brings joy to any table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: In just 30 minutes, you can have a delicious meal ready to enjoy.
• Packed with flavor: The combination of smoky shrimp, creamy avocado, and zesty salsa creates an explosion of taste.
• Healthy ingredients: Made with wholesome components that are nutritious and filling.
• Great for meal prep: Perfect for making ahead of time and enjoying throughout the week.
• Endless customization: Easily adjust ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple, wholesome ingredients will make your cooking experience enjoyable and stress-free. Here’s what you’ll need for your Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce:

For the Shrimp Marinade

• 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 Assembly

• Cooked rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice

Variations

One of the best parts about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it based on what you have at home or your dietary preferences. Here are some fun variations:

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken or tofu if shrimp isn’t your thing!
• Add different veggies: Include diced tomatoes, jalapeños, or black beans in your corn salsa for extra flavor.
• Make it spicy: Add more hot sauce or sprinkle some red pepper flakes into your avocado mash for a kick.
• Try different grains: Use farro or barley instead of rice or quinoa for a unique texture.

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

Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp

In a bowl, combine olive oil, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Toss in your shrimp until they are well-coated. Let them marinate for about 15–20 minutes. This step infuses the shrimp with all those wonderful flavors!

Step 2: Prepare the Corn Salsa

While the shrimp marinates, grab another bowl and mix together corn, diced red bell pepper, chopped green onions, cilantro, lime juice, and salt. Stir everything together until combined and then pop it in the fridge while you finish preparing other components. Chilling helps meld those flavors beautifully!

Step 3: Mash the Avocado

Scoop out your ripe avocados into a bowl. Add lime juice along with salt and pepper. Mash them until creamy but still slightly chunky—this gives your dish great texture! The lime not only adds flavor but also keeps that lovely green color intact.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl whisk together mayo (or Greek yogurt), lime juice, optional hot sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cilantro, and salt. If it’s too thick for your liking, just add a splash of water until it reaches your desired consistency. This creamy sauce ties everything together beautifully!

Step 5: Grill the Shrimp

Heat up your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook each shrimp for about 2–3 minutes per side until they turn pink and get those lovely char marks. Cooking them quickly ensures they stay juicy—no one likes dry shrimp!

Step 6: Assemble the Bowl

Now comes the fun part! Start by adding either rice or quinoa as your base in each bowl. Top it generously with corn salsa, add dollops of avocado mash and perfectly grilled shrimp on top. Finally, drizzle that creamy sauce all over everything and garnish with fresh cilantro for an extra pop of color.

And there you have it—a delightful Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce that’s sure to brighten up any meal! Enjoy every delicious bite!

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

Creating this vibrant dish at home is easier than you think! Here are some tips to ensure your Grilled Shrimp Bowl turns out perfectly every time.

• Marinate the shrimp well: Allowing the shrimp to marinate for 15–20 minutes enhances their flavor and tenderness. The spices and lime juice work their magic, infusing each bite with deliciousness.

• Choose fresh ingredients: Fresh corn and ripe avocados make a big difference in taste and texture. When possible, opt for seasonal produce to elevate the freshness of your bowl.

• Preheat your grill: A hot grill ensures that your shrimp cook quickly and develop those beautiful char marks. This not only adds flavor but also keeps them juicy and succulent.

• Customize the heat level: If you prefer a milder dish, adjust or omit the hot sauce in the creamy sauce. This recipe is versatile, allowing you to tailor it to your heat tolerance.

• Prepare components ahead of time: For busy weeknights, consider prepping the corn salsa and avocado mash earlier in the day or even the night before. This way, all you have to do is grill the shrimp when you’re ready to eat!

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

Presentation can elevate any meal into something truly special! Here are some creative ideas for serving this delightful bowl.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh cilantro: Sprinkling chopped cilantro over the top adds a burst of color and a fragrant touch that complements the flavors beautifully.
• Lime wedges: Adding a couple of lime wedges on the side allows everyone to squeeze extra zesty lime over their bowls for added brightness.
• Sliced jalapeños: For those who enjoy a bit of spice, sliced jalapeños can provide a flavorful kick without overwhelming the dish.

Side Dishes

• Crispy tortilla chips: Perfect for scooping up any leftover corn salsa or creamy sauce. They add a delightful crunch and are always a crowd-pleaser.
• Simple mixed green salad: A light salad dressed with olive oil and vinegar balances out the richness of the bowl while adding freshness.
• Grilled vegetables: Seasonal grilled veggies like zucchini or bell peppers pair wonderfully with this dish, adding more nutrients and a smoky flavor.
• Black beans or refried beans: These provide an extra source of protein and fiber, making your meal even more satisfying while complementing the flavors of the shrimp bowl.

Enjoy exploring new ways to serve this colorful and delicious Grilled Shrimp Bowl!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce is perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare components in advance, so you have a nutritious and delicious meal ready to go during the busy week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover shrimp, corn salsa, and avocado mash separately in airtight containers.
• Keep the creamy sauce in its own container to maintain its texture.
• Refrigerate all components for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• It’s best to freeze the shrimp cooked rather than raw. Place grilled shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Avoid freezing the avocado mash and creamy sauce, as they don’t thaw well.

Reheating

• To reheat frozen shrimp, thaw overnight in the fridge and then warm them on the grill or stovetop for just a few minutes until heated through.
• If you have refrigerated leftovers, simply heat the shrimp in a pan over medium heat until warmed. The corn salsa can be served cold or at room temperature.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about the Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce.

Can I use different proteins instead of shrimp?

Absolutely! You can substitute grilled chicken or tofu for a different twist on this dish while keeping it just as tasty.

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

To add some heat, increase the amount of hot sauce in your creamy sauce or sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top before serving!

Can I make the components of the Grilled Shrimp Bowl ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the corn salsa, avocado mash, and creamy sauce ahead of time. Just store them in separate containers in the fridge.

What can I serve with my Grilled Shrimp Bowl?

This bowl is delicious on its own but pairs beautifully with tortilla chips or a side salad for extra crunch!

Final Thoughts

I hope this Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce brings joy and flavor to your table! It’s truly a delightful recipe that balances freshness with bold flavors—perfect for any occasion. Enjoy making it and share it with loved ones; it’s bound to become a favorite!