If you are craving a vibrant, fresh, and flavorful meal that’s as eye-catching as it is delicious, the Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe is exactly what you need. This dish brilliantly balances the smoky char of perfectly grilled shrimp with the cool creaminess of avocado corn salsa, all brought together by a luscious, tangy garlic sauce. It’s a delightful combination that feels both indulgent and wholesome, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering with friends. Once you try it, this bowl will quickly become one of your go-to recipes for fresh, satisfying flavors with minimal fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the way each ingredient plays a key role in the overall flavor and texture. From the tender shrimp to the fresh bursts of avocado and corn, every component is essential for creating this harmonious grilled shrimp bowl experience.
- Large shrimp (1 pound): Peeled and deveined for quick cooking and perfect bite-sized pieces.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Helps the shrimp achieve that gorgeous sear and locks in moisture.
- Smoked paprika (2 teaspoons): Adds a mild smoky depth that elevates the shrimp flavor.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Gives a subtle garlicky note that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
- Salt and pepper: To season everything perfectly.
- Ripe avocados (2, diced): Creamy and luscious, a key to the salsa’s rich texture.
- Corn kernels (1 cup): Fresh, frozen or canned – adds sweetness and crunch to the salsa.
- Cherry tomatoes (1/2 cup, halved): Brings a juicy burst of flavor and vibrant color.
- Red onion (1/4 cup, finely chopped): Adds sharpness and a slight bite.
- Fresh cilantro (1/4 cup, chopped): Infuses the salsa with a bright, herbaceous aroma.
- Lime juice (juice of 1 lime): Gives the salsa a refreshing tang that wakes up the palate.
- Greek yogurt (1/2 cup): Forms the creamy base of the garlic sauce, keeping it light yet rich.
- Mayonnaise (2 tablespoons): Adds silky texture to the sauce, balancing the tanginess.
- Minced garlic (2 cloves): Provides that unmistakable garlic punch in the sauce.
- Fresh lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Brightens the sauce with a zesty finish.
How to Make Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Grill
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures the shrimp will cook quickly and develop that perfect smoky char without sticking or drying out. A hot grill is your best friend for searing shrimp just right.
Step 2: Marinate the Shrimp
In a large bowl, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This marinade is simple but packs a punch, infusing the shrimp with smoky and garlicky flavors that are utterly irresistible once grilled.
Step 3: Grill the Shrimp
Thread the shrimp onto skewers to make flipping easy. Grill them over the hot flame for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. The shrimp should still be juicy and tender, with just enough char to highlight the spices. Remove them and set aside, keeping them warm.
Step 4: Make the Avocado Corn Salsa
Combine diced avocado, corn kernels, halved cherry tomatoes, finely chopped red onion, and fresh cilantro in a large bowl. Add the fresh lime juice along with salt and pepper, then gently mix everything together to keep the avocado cubes intact while marrying all the flavors. This salsa is fresh, creamy, crunchy, and bright all at once.
Step 5: Whip Up the Creamy Garlic Sauce
In a smaller bowl, mix Greek yogurt and mayonnaise with minced garlic and fresh lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper, tasting as you go to get that perfect tangy-garlicky creaminess. This sauce will be the heavenly drizzle that ties this whole bowl together.
Step 6: Assemble the Bowls
Start by spooning a generous amount of avocado corn salsa into each serving bowl, then top with the grilled shrimp skewers or remove the shrimp from skewers and scatter them on top. Finish it all off by drizzling the creamy garlic sauce over the shrimp and salsa. The layered flavors and textures burst in every bite!
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Serve immediately to enjoy this fresh, colorful, and perfectly balanced Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe at its best. Every forkful delivers a harmonious blend of smoky shrimp, fresh salsa, and luscious sauce that’s downright addictive.
How to Serve Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra pop of flavor and texture, try garnishing with chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley, a sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds for crunch, or a few thin slices of jalapeño if you love some heat. A wedge of lime on the side is perfect for squeezing over just before eating to add an additional burst of freshness.
Side Dishes
This bowl stands beautifully on its own but pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a crisp green salad, warm tortilla chips for scooping, or even a light quinoa salad for extra grain power. A chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water with lime complements this meal perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a casual dinner or party, you can serve this Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe as a colorful platter with separate bowls of salsa and sauce so everyone can customize. Alternatively, try building it with rice or cauliflower rice under the salsa for a more filling meal, or even serve in lettuce cups for a low-carb option that’s fun and hand-held.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store the grilled shrimp separately from the avocado corn salsa and creamy garlic sauce, ideally in airtight containers in the fridge. The shrimp will stay good for up to 2 days, while the salsa is best enjoyed within 1-2 days to keep the avocado fresh and vibrant.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended for the avocado corn salsa or the creamy garlic sauce, as they contain ingredients that can lose texture and flavor upon thawing. The grilled shrimp can be frozen on its own for up to 1 month if tightly sealed, but it’s best fresh for this recipe’s full flavor and texture experience.
Reheating
Reheat the shrimp gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the oven at a low temperature just until warmed through, taking care not to overcook. Avoid microwaving to preserve texture. Reheat separately from the salsa and sauce, which should be served cold.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe without a grill?
Absolutely! If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the shrimp in a grill pan or a regular skillet over medium-high heat to get a nice sear. The flavors will still be amazing and you won’t miss the grill marks.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp work perfectly as long as you thaw them completely and pat them dry before marinating. This helps the marinade stick and allows the shrimp to grill nicely.
Is the creamy garlic sauce spicy?
The sauce is mild and tangy rather than spicy, making it a comforting complement to the smoky shrimp and fresh salsa. You can always add a pinch of cayenne or hot sauce if you want a little heat.
Can I substitute the Greek yogurt in the sauce?
You can replace Greek yogurt with sour cream or a dairy-free yogurt alternative to suit dietary preferences, but Greek yogurt balances creaminess and tang perfectly, so it’s best if you can use it.
How long does it take to prepare this dish?
This recipe comes together quickly — about 15 minutes of prep and approximately 6 minutes of cooking time, making it an ideal option for a fast yet impressive meal.
Final Thoughts
This Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe is truly a celebration of fresh, vibrant flavors and simple, thoughtful ingredients. It feels luxurious without any complicated steps, perfect for sharing with family or friends or savoring as a special treat for yourself. Give it a try and bring a burst of sunshine to your dining table—you won’t regret it!
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Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 15m
- Cook Time: 0h 6m
- Total Time: 0h 21m
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Grilled Shrimp Bowl features perfectly seasoned, smoky grilled shrimp paired with a refreshing avocado corn salsa and a tangy creamy garlic sauce. It’s a vibrant and healthy meal ideal for a quick lunch or light dinner that balances protein, fresh vegetables, and rich flavors.
Ingredients
Shrimp
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Avocado Corn Salsa
- 2 ripe avocados, diced
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt and pepper to taste
Creamy Garlic Sauce
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat to ensure it’s hot enough for searing the shrimp quickly while locking in juices and flavor.
- Season the Shrimp: In a large bowl, combine the peeled and deveined shrimp with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss thoroughly to coat each shrimp evenly with the spices and oil.
- Skewer and Grill Shrimp: Thread the seasoned shrimp onto skewers to make flipping easier. Grill for 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, indicating they are cooked through. Remove from the grill and set aside.
- Prepare the Avocado Corn Salsa: In a large bowl, combine diced avocados, corn kernels, halved cherry tomatoes, finely chopped red onion, and chopped cilantro. Add lime juice along with salt and pepper to taste. Gently mix all ingredients and refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, minced garlic, and fresh lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper, adjusting to taste for a tangy and creamy finish.
- Assemble the Bowls: Start by spooning a generous portion of the avocado corn salsa into each serving bowl. Top with the grilled shrimp skewers, then drizzle with the creamy garlic sauce.
- Serve Fresh: Serve immediately to enjoy the fresh, vibrant flavors and contrasting textures that make this bowl a satisfying meal.
Notes
- For easier grilling, soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- You can substitute lime juice with lemon juice if preferred.
- Use fresh or frozen shrimp based on availability; just be sure to thaw frozen shrimp before cooking.
- This dish pairs well with a side of rice or mixed greens to make a complete meal.
- Adjust the amount of garlic in the sauce according to your taste.
