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

Sizzling Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado & Corn Salsa Recipe

Crafting a delectable grilled shrimp bowl brings together a symphony of vibrant flavors that dance across your palate.

Mediterranean-inspired ingredients create a fresh, light meal perfect for summer evenings.

Succulent shrimp caramelize beautifully when kissed by grill flames, developing a smoky depth.

Crisp corn salsa adds sweet-tangy notes that complement the tender seafood.

Creamy garlic sauce weaves rich, velvety textures through each delightful bite.

Ripe avocado slices contribute a luxurious, buttery backdrop to this colorful ensemble.

You’ll find this bowl irresistibly satisfying and surprisingly simple to assemble in minutes.

Why Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado Is Amazing

  • Savor Quick Flavor Explosion: This recipe delivers intense, complex flavors with minimal kitchen effort through simple grilling and mixing techniques.
  • Create Customizable Culinary Adventure: Easily swap ingredients, adjust spice levels, and personalize the bowl to match individual taste preferences and dietary needs.
  • Nutrition-Packed Protein Power: Packed with lean shrimp protein, healthy avocado fats, and fresh corn salsa, this dish offers a balanced, nutrient-rich meal that supports wellness goals.
  • Zero-Stress Weeknight Winner: Perfect for busy home cooks seeking a delicious, restaurant-quality meal that can be prepared quickly without complicated cooking methods or extensive ingredient lists.

Ingredients for Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado and Corn Salsa

Protein:
  • Shrimp: Fresh seafood that provides a light and tender protein base for the bowl.
Vegetables and Produce:
  • Corn, Red Onion, Jalapeño: Fresh ingredients that create a zesty and colorful salsa.
  • Avocado: Creamy fruit that adds richness and smooth texture to the bowl.
  • Green Onions: Garnish that provides a mild onion flavor and fresh appearance.
  • Cilantro: Herb that contributes a bright and fresh taste to both salsa and sauce.
Sauce and Seasoning Ingredients:
  • Olive Oil, Paprika, Garlic Powder, Salt, Pepper, Cayenne Pepper: Spices and seasonings that enhance the shrimp's flavor profile.
  • Mayonnaise, Sour Cream: Creamy base ingredients for the garlic sauce.
  • Lime Juice: Citrus ingredient that adds brightness and tanginess to both salsa and sauce.
  • Sesame Seeds: Garnish that provides a subtle nutty crunch.
  • Garlic: Aromatic ingredient that adds depth to the creamy sauce.

How to Prepare Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Step 1: Marinate Shrimp

Toss shrimp with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and optional cayenne pepper in a mixing bowl.

Ensure each shrimp is evenly coated with the zesty seasoning blend.

Step 2: Whip Up Corn Salsa

Combine fresh ingredients for vibrant corn salsa:
  • Corn kernels
  • Diced red onion
  • Chopped jalapeño
  • Fresh cilantro
  • Lime juice
  • Salt

Gently mix all ingredients and let flavors meld while preparing other components.

Step 3: Fire Up the Grill

Preheat grill to medium heat.

Cook marinated shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and slightly charred, ensuring they’re cooked through but remain tender.

Step 4: Create Creamy Garlic Sauce

Whisk together in a small bowl:
  • Mayonnaise
  • Sour cream
  • Chopped cilantro
  • Lime juice
  • Minced garlic
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Blend until smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Build Delicious Bowls

Layer bowls with corn salsa as the base.

Top with grilled shrimp and sliced or cubed avocado.

Drizzle generously with creamy garlic sauce.

Sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions for extra texture and flavor.

Step 6: Customize Your Bowl

Add extra heat with additional cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.

For a complete meal, serve with rice, side salad, or soup.

Tips for Flavorful Shrimp Bowl with Avocado and Corn Salsa

  • Choose large, deveined shrimp for quick grilling and best texture, ensuring they're firm and have a clean ocean smell.
  • Watch shrimp closely while cooking, as they turn rubbery when overcooked; medium heat helps maintain tenderness and prevents burning.
  • Adjust cayenne and red pepper flakes according to personal heat tolerance, starting with small amounts and gradually increasing.
  • Marinate shrimp for 15-20 minutes before grilling to help spices penetrate and enhance overall taste profile.
  • Whisk mayonnaise and sour cream thoroughly to prevent lumps and create smooth, consistent sauce texture.

Flavor Twists for Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Garlic Sauce

  • Vegan Protein Power Bowl: Replace shrimp with grilled tofu or tempeh, marinated in similar spices. Use vegan mayonnaise and cashew cream for the sauce.
  • Low-Carb Cauliflower Base: Swap corn salsa and rice with riced cauliflower. Keep shrimp and avocado for a keto-friendly version of the original recipe.
  • Mediterranean Herb Remix: Substitute shrimp marinade with oregano, lemon zest, and rosemary. Replace corn salsa with diced cucumber and tomato. Use tzatziki instead of creamy garlic sauce.
  • Spicy Coconut Fusion: Add coconut milk to the shrimp marinade, use mango instead of corn in salsa, and create a Thai-inspired creamy sauce with red curry paste and coconut cream.

Serving Suggestions for Grilled Shrimp Bowl

  • Beach Party Platter: Create a vibrant summer spread by arranging multiple bowls with colorful garnishes and extra toppings for friends to customize their meal.
  • Fresh Taco Twist: Transform the shrimp into soft street-style tacos using warm tortillas, adding the corn salsa and creamy sauce as delicious accompaniments.
  • Healthy Lunch Prep: Pack individual containers with separated ingredients, keeping the sauce in a small sealed container to maintain freshness for work or school lunches.
  • Protein Power Bowl: Replace shrimp with grilled chicken or seared tofu for a versatile protein option that maintains the recipe's delicious flavor profile.

How to Store Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Garlic Sauce

  • Store leftover shrimp, corn salsa, and sauce separately in airtight containers for up to 2 days. Keep refrigerated at 40°F or below to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth.
  • Freeze corn salsa and shrimp in separate freezer-safe containers for up to 1 month. Avoid freezing the creamy garlic sauce as it may separate when thawed.
  • Warm gently in a skillet over medium-low heat for 2-3 minutes, adding a splash of water to prevent drying. Alternatively, microwave in 15-second intervals, stirring between each to ensure even heating.

FAQs

  • How do I know when the shrimp are fully cooked?

Look for a pink color and a slightly curled shape. The shrimp should be opaque and firm to the touch, not translucent or rubbery.

  • Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just thaw them completely and pat dry before marinating. Ensure they’re well-drained to help achieve a good sear when grilling.

  • What if I don't have a grill?

You can cook the shrimp in a hot skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Alternatively, use the broiler in your oven for similar results.

  • Is this recipe spicy?

The recipe has mild spice from cayenne and jalapeño, but you can easily adjust the heat level by adding or reducing these ingredients.

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

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


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4.7 from 20 reviews

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Summer’s sizzling Grilled Shrimp Bowl delivers a flavor-packed Mexican-inspired feast with succulent seafood and zesty accompaniments. Crisp corn salsa, creamy garlic sauce, and perfectly charred shrimp create a refreshing meal you’ll crave all season long.


Ingredients

Scale

Proteins:

  • 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
  • 1 clove garlic (minced)

Vegetables and Aromatics:

  • 1 cup frozen corn (thawed)
  • 1/2 cup red onion (diced)
  • 1 jalapeño (seeded and minced)
  • 1 avocado (sliced or mashed)
  • 1/4 cup cilantro (chopped)
  • 1 tablespoon cilantro (chopped)
  • green onions (chopped, for garnish)

Seasonings, Sauces, and Garnishes:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt (for shrimp)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (for shrimp)
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 lime (juiced)
  • Salt to taste
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt (for sauce)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (for sauce)
  • Sesame seeds (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Marinate shrimp with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and optional cayenne pepper, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.
  2. Create vibrant corn salsa by mixing corn kernels, diced red onion, chopped jalapeño, fresh cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Allow flavors to meld while preparing other components.
  3. Preheat grill to medium heat (375-400°F). Arrange marinated shrimp on grill, cooking 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and develop light char marks.
  4. Whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, minced cilantro, lime juice, crushed garlic, salt, and pepper to create a smooth, tangy creamy garlic sauce.
  5. Layer bowls with corn salsa as a base, then strategically position grilled shrimp and sliced or cubed avocado on top.
  6. Drizzle creamy garlic sauce generously over the assembled bowl, ensuring even distribution.
  7. Enhance presentation by sprinkling sesame seeds and chopped green onions as a final garnish.
  8. Optional: Amplify heat by adding extra cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the shrimp marinade or serve with additional hot sauce.
  9. Transform into a complete meal by incorporating cooked rice or accompanying with a light side salad.

Notes

  • Marinate shrimp for extra flavor by letting them sit in the seasoning mix for 15-20 minutes before grilling, which helps the spices penetrate deeper into the protein.
  • Choose fresh, high-quality shrimp for the best texture and taste, preferably wild-caught with a firm, translucent appearance and clean ocean scent.
  • Adjust spice levels by reducing or increasing cayenne pepper and red pepper flakes to match individual heat preferences, ensuring a personalized dining experience.
  • For gluten-free adaptation, verify mayonnaise and sour cream ingredients, and use certified gluten-free products to accommodate dietary restrictions.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 335 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 510 mg
  • Fat: 24 g
  • Saturated Fat: 4 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 11 g
  • Fiber: 5 g
  • Protein: 25 g
  • Cholesterol: 195 mg
Natalie Brooks

Natalie Brooks

Co-Founder & Content Strategist

Expertise

  • Vegan and plant-based recipe creation
  • Meal planning and nutritional analysis
  • Storytelling through blog content, video, and social media

Education

eCornell

  • Program: Plant-Based Nutrition Certificate
  • Focus: Whole-food, plant-based cooking, with a foundation in nutritional science and sustainable eating habits.

Natalie brings the vibrant, plant-powered side to Culinary Duo. After earning her Plant-Based Nutrition Certificate from eCornell, she combined her love for fresh ingredients with a passion for storytelling, aiming to make healthy cooking simple and satisfying.
Her kitchen motto: good food doesn’t need a fancy label, it just needs fresh ideas and a little creativity. Outside of writing and recipe testing, Natalie’s happiest in her garden, exploring farmers’ markets, or mixing global flavors into new kitchen experiments.

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