Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious way to spice up your dinner routine, you’re in the right place! This Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce is one of my all-time favorites. It’s not just about the flavors—though trust me, they are incredible—but also how easy it is to whip up. Whether you’re having a busy weeknight or hosting a small gathering, this bowl feels like a festive celebration in every bite.

The combination of smoky grilled shrimp, creamy avocado, and zesty corn salsa makes this dish feel indulgent while still being packed with wholesome ingredients. Plus, it’s super versatile! You can customize it however you like. So grab your apron and let’s make something special together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those busy nights when you still want something delicious.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will enjoy the bright colors and fresh flavors in this dish!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep the components ahead of time for an easy meal during the week.
• Flavor Explosion: The smoky shrimp paired with creamy avocado and zesty salsa creates a taste that is simply irresistible.
• Customizable: Feel free to mix and match ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is part of the fun! Here’s what you need for our Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce:

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

To Serve

• Cooked rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some ideas to mix things up:

• Swap the protein: If shrimp isn’t your thing, try grilled chicken or tofu for a different take.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some diced tomatoes or sliced radishes for extra crunch and flavor.
• Make it spicy: Add diced jalapeños to your corn salsa if you like a little heat!
• Change up the grain: Use farro or barley instead of rice or quinoa for a heartier base.

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 in your shrimp until they’re coated well. Letting them marinate for 15–20 minutes allows those flavors to soak into each shrimp piece—trust me; this step is crucial!

Step 2: Prepare the Corn Salsa

While your shrimp are soaking up those tasty spices, grab another bowl. Combine corn, diced red bell pepper, chopped green onions, cilantro, lime juice, and salt. Mix it all up and let it chill in the fridge. This keeps everything fresh and vibrant!

Step 3: Mash the Avocado

Next up is the avocado mash! 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 it that perfect texture!

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In another bowl (yes, I know there are quite a few bowls!), whisk together mayo or Greek yogurt with lime juice, hot sauce (if using), garlic powder, smoked paprika, cilantro, and salt. You can adjust thickness by adding a splash of water; this sauce will be your secret weapon for flavor!

Step 5: Grill the Shrimp

Heat up your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook those marinated shrimp for about 2–3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and have those beautiful char marks. The grilling brings out such an amazing smokiness!

Step 6: Assemble the Bowl

Now comes the fun part—assembling your delicious bowl! Start by adding cooked rice or quinoa as your base. Top it off with that refreshing corn salsa you made earlier followed by creamy avocado mash and grilled shrimp. Don’t forget to drizzle on that creamy sauce! Garnish with fresh cilantro for an extra touch.

And there you have it—a stunning Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce ready to be enjoyed!

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

Making this Grilled Shrimp Bowl can be a delightful experience, and with a few handy tips, you can take it to the next level!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh shrimp and ripe avocados make a world of difference in flavor and texture. Fresh ingredients not only enhance taste but also provide better nutritional value.

• Marinate for Flavor: Allowing the shrimp to marinate for at least 15-20 minutes ensures that they absorb all those delicious spices and flavors. This step is key to achieving that smoky, zesty taste throughout the dish.

• Perfectly Grill the Shrimp: Avoid overcooking the shrimp by grilling them just until they turn pink and are lightly charred—about 2–3 minutes per side. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery, so keep an eye on them!

• Customize the Heat Level: If you love heat, don’t hesitate to add more hot sauce or even sliced jalapeños to your corn salsa. Personalizing spice levels allows everyone to enjoy their bowl just the way they like it.

• Meal Prep Friendly: Prepare components in advance! You can grill the shrimp and make the corn salsa ahead of time for quick assembly during busy weeknights. This makes meal prep easy and efficient.

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

Serving this vibrant bowl is all about presentation and complementing flavors! Here are some creative ideas to make your dish stand out.

Garnishes

• Chopped Cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a bright flavor that complements the shrimp beautifully.
• Lime Wedges: Serving lime wedges on the side allows guests to add an extra burst of freshness as per their preference.
• Sliced Jalapeños: For those who enjoy a spicy kick, sliced jalapeños make an excellent garnish that adds both color and heat.

Side Dishes

• Cilantro-Lime Rice: Fluffy rice tossed with fresh cilantro and lime juice provides a zesty base that pairs perfectly with your grilled shrimp bowl.
• Black Bean Salad: A refreshing black bean salad with tomatoes, onions, and avocado adds protein and fiber while enhancing the overall meal’s nutritional value.
• Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers grilled alongside your shrimp can bring an extra layer of flavor and color to your plate.
• Tortilla Chips with Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with a zesty salsa create a fun appetizer or side that complements the flavors of your bowl wonderfully.

Enjoy your culinary adventure with this Grilled Shrimp Bowl! It’s sure to impress family or friends while keeping things simple yet satisfying.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce is perfect for meal prep! You can whip up everything in advance and enjoy delicious servings throughout the week. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your tasty creations.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover shrimp, corn salsa, and avocado mash separately in airtight containers.
• Keep the creamy sauce in its own container to prevent the ingredients from mixing.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing

• The shrimp can be frozen before grilling if you want to prepare them ahead of time. Just marinate as directed, then place in a freezer bag.
• Corn salsa can be frozen as well; just avoid adding fresh avocado until you’re ready to serve.
• Be sure to label containers with the date to keep track!

Reheating

• Thaw frozen shrimp in the refrigerator overnight before grilling.
• For leftovers, heat shrimp in a pan over medium heat until warmed through (about 3-4 minutes).
• The corn salsa is best served cold; simply mix it again before serving.
• Avocado mash may darken but is still safe to eat; just give it a good stir.

FAQs

If you have questions while preparing this dish, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:

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

Absolutely! Frozen shrimp works perfectly. Just be sure to thaw them completely before marinating and grilling.

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

Greek yogurt is an excellent alternative that adds creaminess without the extra calories. You can also try using a plant-based mayo if preferred!

How spicy is the Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce?

The spice level depends on how much hot sauce you choose to add. Start with a little and adjust according to your taste preferences!

Can I add other vegetables to my Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce?

Definitely! Feel free to include any veggies you love, such as diced cucumbers or cherry tomatoes for an extra crunch.

Final Thoughts

This Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce is truly special—it’s not just a meal; it’s an experience bursting with flavors and colors that will brighten any day. I hope you find joy in making this dish as much as I do! It’s quick enough for a busy weeknight yet impressive enough for guests. Enjoy every bite and don’t hesitate to share your culinary adventures!