Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Grilled Shrimp Bowl is a perfect balance of fresh flavors, textures, and nutritional benefits. The shrimp is seasoned with bold spices, then grilled to perfection for a smoky taste. The corn salsa adds a crunchy, slightly sweet contrast, while the creamy sauce brings a touch of richness and tang. With fresh avocado slices and the option to adjust the heat with cayenne pepper, this dish can be tailored to suit anyone's taste. Plus, it's quick and easy to make, with a bright, vibrant presentation that makes it perfect for entertaining.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

For the Corn Salsa:

• 1 cup frozen corn, thawed
• ½ cup diced red onion
• ¼ cup chopped cilantro
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional)
• 1 lime, juiced
• Salt to taste

For the Creamy Sauce:

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup sour cream
• 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Bowl:

• 1 avocado, sliced
• Sesame seeds, for garnish
• Chopped green onions, for garnish

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prep the Shrimp: In a bowl, combine shrimp, olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Toss to coat the shrimp evenly in the seasoning.

2. Make the Corn Salsa: In another bowl, combine thawed corn, diced red onion, minced jalapeño (if using), chopped cilantro, lime juice, and salt. Mix gently and set aside.

3. Grill the Shrimp: Preheat the grill to medium heat. Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side or until they are fully cooked and pink. Remove from the grill and set aside.

4. Make the Creamy Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, chopped cilantro, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until smooth.

5. Assemble the Bowls: Divide cooked rice (optional) into bowls. Top each with grilled shrimp, corn salsa, avocado slices, and a drizzle of creamy sauce. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Add extra heat: If you like your meals spicy, add more cayenne pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the shrimp marinade.
• Make it a full meal: Serve the bowls with a side salad, grilled vegetables, or a cup of soup for a more substantial meal.
• Swap the shrimp: For a different protein, try using grilled chicken, tofu, or fish as a substitute for the shrimp.
• Corn Salsa alternatives: Try adding diced mango, tomatoes, or bell peppers to the corn salsa for extra flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover shrimp and corn salsa can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Store the creamy sauce separately.
• Reheating: Reheat the shrimp gently in a pan over low heat to prevent overcooking. The corn salsa can be eaten cold or at room temperature. The creamy sauce should be refrigerated and can be used within 2 days.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp work well in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them thoroughly before marinating and grilling.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

You can increase the amount of cayenne pepper in the shrimp marinade or add more minced jalapeño to the corn salsa.

Can I make the creamy sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the creamy sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it until you're ready to assemble the bowls.

What can I use instead of sour cream in the creamy sauce?

You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a healthier option or use a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream.

Can I grill the shrimp indoors?

Yes, you can grill the shrimp indoors using a stovetop grill pan if you don't have access to an outdoor grill.

What can I serve with this dish?

Serve the Grilled Shrimp Bowl with a side of rice, quinoa, or a simple salad for a complete meal.

How do I know when the shrimp are cooked?

Shrimp turn pink and opaque when cooked through. You can also check the internal temperature, which should be 120°F to 130°F.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, but always check the labels of packaged ingredients (like mayonnaise) to ensure they are gluten-free.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, you can make this recipe vegan by substituting the shrimp with grilled tofu or tempeh and using a plant-based mayonnaise and sour cream.

Can I prepare the corn salsa in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the corn salsa a few hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Conclusion

This Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa, and Creamy Sauce is a fresh, flavorful dish that's perfect for any occasion. With vibrant ingredients and the option to customize the heat and toppings, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a show-stopping dish to impress guests, this recipe has you covered.