Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This grilled shrimp bowl is packed with bright, zesty flavors from the corn salsa and creamy garlic sauce, making it a refreshing meal. The shrimp is perfectly seasoned and grilled, offering a light yet flavorful protein, while the avocado adds creaminess and richness to balance the spices. The creamy garlic sauce enhances the overall dish with its tangy, herby richness. Quick and easy to make, it’s the perfect recipe for a healthy and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

For the Corn Salsa:

• 1 cup frozen corn, thawed

• 1/2 cup red onion, diced

• 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped

• 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional)

• 1 lime, juiced

• Salt to taste

For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise

• 1/4 cup sour cream

• 1 tablespoon cilantro, chopped

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Bowl:

• 1 avocado, sliced (or mashed)

• Sesame seeds for garnish

• Green onions, chopped 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.

2. Make the Corn Salsa: Combine corn, red onion, jalapeño (if using), cilantro, lime juice, and salt in a bowl. Mix gently and set aside.

3. Grill the Shrimp: Grill the shrimp over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.

4. Make the Creamy Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, cilantro, lime juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.

5. Assemble the Bowls: Divide the corn salsa between bowls, top with grilled shrimp, avocado (sliced, cubed, or mashed), and drizzle with creamy garlic sauce. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Cook time: 10 minutes

• Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Spice It Up: Add more cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the shrimp marinade for an extra kick.

• Add Rice: For a more filling meal, serve the shrimp bowl with a side of cooked rice.

• Vegan Version: Swap the shrimp with grilled tofu or tempeh and use a plant-based sour cream and mayo for a vegan-friendly alternative.

Storage/Reheating

The shrimp bowl is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat the shrimp and corn salsa gently in the microwave or on the stove. Fresh avocado should be added just before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the creamy garlic sauce a day in advance and store it in the fridge until ready to use.

2. What if I don’t like spicy food?

You can skip the cayenne pepper and jalapeño to keep the dish mild.

3. Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, frozen shrimp can be used, but make sure to thaw them before cooking.

4. Can I add other veggies to the corn salsa?

Yes, you can add diced tomatoes, bell peppers, or cucumbers for more crunch and flavor.

5. Can I grill the shrimp on a stovetop grill pan?

Yes, a grill pan works just as well if you don’t have an outdoor grill.

6. Can I use a different protein?

Yes, chicken or fish would work as alternatives to shrimp in this recipe.

7. Can I use regular sour cream instead of light sour cream?

Yes, regular sour cream works fine, though light sour cream makes the sauce a bit lighter.

8. Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free.

9. Can I add more lime juice to the sauce?

Yes, feel free to add more lime juice if you prefer a tangier flavor.

10. How can I make the avocado stay fresh?

To prevent browning, sprinkle the avocado with lime juice before adding it to the bowl.

Conclusion

This Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa, and Creamy Garlic Sauce is a flavorful, healthy dish that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. The combination of grilled shrimp, fresh corn salsa, and creamy sauce creates a satisfying meal that’s both light and hearty. With easy-to-follow steps and customizable ingredients, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your weekly rotation!