Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce

If you’re looking for a dinner that’s as vibrant as it is delicious, you’ve come to the right place! This Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce is one of my all-time favorites. It brings together smoky grilled shrimp, creamy avocado, and zesty corn salsa in a way that feels like a celebration in every bite. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual family gathering, this dish always shines.

What makes this recipe truly special is how quick and easy it is to prepare. In just about 30 minutes, you can whip up something not only healthy but also indulgent. It’s perfect for meal prepping too! You’ll find yourself reaching for this one again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to make: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this dish fits perfectly into your busy schedule.
• Flavor-packed: Each component bursts with flavor—smoky shrimp, creamy avocado, and zesty salsa create an unforgettable combination.
• Family-friendly: Kids love assembling their own bowls, making dinner a fun experience for everyone.
• Versatile: Customize toppings and bases to suit your family’s tastes or dietary needs.
• Meal prep friendly: Make extra bowls for lunches throughout the week or enjoy leftovers the next day!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to bring this dish to life! You likely have many of these staples in your pantry already. Don’t worry; I’ll walk you through everything you need!

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 Serving

• Cooked rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have at home or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try chicken or firm tofu instead of shrimp for a different twist!
• Change up the base: Use brown rice or farro for added texture and nutrition.
• Add extra veggies: Toss in some diced tomatoes, cucumbers, or even black beans for more color and flavor.
• Make it spicy: If you love heat, add jalapeños to the corn salsa or increase the hot sauce in the creamy sauce.

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

Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp

Start by preparing your marinade. In a bowl, combine olive oil, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Toss in your shrimp until they’re well-coated. Let them sit for about 15–20 minutes. This step is crucial because marinating allows all those spices to soak into the shrimp for maximum flavor!

Step 2: Prepare the Corn Salsa

While your shrimp marinates, grab another bowl for the corn salsa. Mix together corn (freshly cooked or canned), diced red bell pepper, chopped green onions, cilantro, lime juice, and salt. Give it a good stir and let it chill in the fridge while you work on other components. This salsa adds a refreshing crunch that pairs beautifully with the grilled shrimp.

Step 3: Mash the Avocado

Next up is the avocado mash! Scoop out two ripe avocados into a bowl. Add lime juice along with salt and pepper. Mash everything together until creamy but still slightly chunky—this texture adds character to our bowl!

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In a separate small bowl, whisk together your choice of mayo (or yogurt), lime juice, hot sauce (if using), garlic powder, smoked paprika, chopped cilantro, and salt. If it seems too thick for your liking, just add a splash of water until it reaches your desired consistency. This sauce brings everything together with its creaminess and zing!

Step 5: Grill the Shrimp

Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot enough (you want that sizzle!), add in your marinated shrimp. Cook them for about 2–3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and get those lovely grill marks. Perfectly grilled shrimp make all the difference!

Step 6: Assemble the Bowl

Now comes the fun part—assembly! Start by adding cooked rice or quinoa as your base in each bowl. Top it off with generous spoonfuls of corn salsa and avocado mash followed by those beautifully grilled shrimp. Drizzle over that creamy sauce we made earlier and garnish with fresh cilantro for an extra touch.

And there you have it—a delightful Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce that will brighten any meal! Enjoy every colorful bite!

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

Ready to make your Grilled Shrimp Bowl even more delicious? Here are some tips to take your dish to the next level!

• Marinate Longer for More Flavor: If you have the time, let the shrimp marinate for up to an hour. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeper, making each bite even more flavorful.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh produce like ripe avocados and sweet corn. Fresh ingredients not only enhance the taste but also provide better texture and nutritional benefits.

• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Keep a close eye on the shrimp while grilling. They only need 2–3 minutes per side. Overcooking can lead to a rubbery texture, so remove them from heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque.

• Customize Your Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili powder or hot sauce based on your spice preference. This dish is versatile and can be made mild or spicy depending on your taste!

• Prep Ahead for Quick Meals: Make the corn salsa and avocado mash in advance, storing them in airtight containers in the fridge. This way, you can quickly assemble your bowls on busy weeknights.

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

Presenting this Grilled Shrimp Bowl is all about adding those finishing touches that make it visually appealing and appetizing. Here are ideas on how to serve this delightful meal!

Garnishes

• Chopped Cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a vibrant color and enhances the flavor profile of the dish.
• Lime Wedges: Serving lime wedges on the side allows everyone to customize their bowl with a splash of zesty lime juice.
• Sliced Jalapeños: For those who enjoy a kick of heat, thinly sliced jalapeños can add both spice and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

• Black Bean Salad: A refreshing mix of black beans, tomatoes, onions, and cilantro tossed in lime juice makes a perfect complement to the shrimp bowl.
• Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus grilled alongside the shrimp offer extra nutrients and a smoky flavor.
• Cornbread Muffins: Soft and slightly sweet cornbread muffins provide a delightful contrast to the savory elements of your bowl.
• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette pairs well with this dish by adding crunch and freshness.

Now you’re ready to impress at your next dinner gathering! Enjoy your flavorful journey with this vibrant Grilled Shrimp Bowl!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to savor its deliciousness throughout the week without any hassle. It’s a versatile dish that stores well and can be easily reheated.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover shrimp, corn salsa, and avocado mash separately in airtight containers.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To prevent the avocado from browning, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or add a little extra lime juice.

Freezing

• The grilled shrimp can be frozen if needed. Cool completely before placing them in freezer-safe bags.
• For best quality, consume within 2 months.
• Note: The avocado mash does not freeze well due to texture changes upon thawing.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen shrimp overnight in the refrigerator.
• Reheat on a skillet over medium heat until warmed through (about 3-5 minutes).
• Serve cold or at room temperature for the corn salsa and mashed avocado.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this flavorful dish!

Can I use other proteins instead of shrimp in the Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce?

Absolutely! You can substitute grilled chicken or tofu for a different protein option. Just adjust cooking times accordingly for each protein.

How do I make the creamy sauce for the Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce dairy-free?

You can easily make the sauce dairy-free by using a plant-based yogurt instead of mayo or Greek yogurt. It will still be creamy and delicious!

What can I serve alongside my Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce?

Try pairing your bowl with tortilla chips or a fresh green salad to round out your meal.

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

The spiciness mainly comes from the optional hot sauce in the creamy sauce. You can adjust the amount according to your spice preference or omit it altogether for a milder flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this vibrant Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce as much as I do! It’s packed with flavor and nutrition while being incredibly easy to prepare. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe is sure to impress! Don’t hesitate to share it with friends and family—after all, good food is meant to be enjoyed together. Happy cooking!