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

A Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce is the perfect meal for any occasion. This dish combines succulent grilled shrimp with a vibrant corn salsa and creamy garlic sauce, creating a flavor-packed bowl that’s as healthy as it is delicious. Whether you’re serving it for lunch or dinner, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy the freshness of ingredients and the ease of preparation, making it a standout choice for both casual gatherings and special celebrations.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe can be prepared in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful: The combination of grilled shrimp, avocado, and zesty corn salsa offers a burst of flavors in every bite.
• Nutritious: Packed with healthy ingredients, this bowl is not only delicious but also heart-smart.
• Versatile: Customize the bowl with your favorite toppings or add more veggies to make it your own.
• Great for Meal Prep: Prepare the components ahead of time for an easy grab-and-go lunch or dinner throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or grill pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or grill pan: Essential for cooking shrimp to perfection while adding that lovely charred flavor.
• Mixing bowls: Useful for combining ingredients easily without mess.
• Whisk: Helps create a smooth and creamy garlic sauce by thoroughly mixing all ingredients.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures precision when chopping vegetables and herbs.

Ingredients

A healthy and delicious meal all in one bowl. Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce is a true treat for the tastebuds and is a heart-smart meal—try it for lunch or dinner.

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 Serving

• 1 avocado (sliced or mashed)
• Sesame seeds (for garnish)
• Green onions (chopped, for garnish)

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

Step 1: Prep the Shrimp

In a bowl, combine shrimp with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if using. Toss to coat evenly.

Step 2: Make the Corn Salsa

In another bowl, mix together thawed corn, diced red onion, minced jalapeño if using, chopped cilantro, lime juice, and salt. Stir gently then set aside.

Step 3: Grill the Shrimp

Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium heat. Grill the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are fully cooked through.

Step 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.

Step 5: Assemble the Bowls

Divide the corn salsa into bowls. Top each serving with grilled shrimp and avocado slices. Drizzle generously with creamy garlic sauce. Finish off by garnishing with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.

Enjoy your delightful Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce!

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

Serving the Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce can elevate your dining experience. Here are some great serving suggestions to enhance flavor and presentation.

Brighten with Fresh Greens

• Lettuce Wraps: Use large leaves of romaine or butter lettuce as wraps for a fun and healthy twist.
• Mixed Greens Salad: Serve alongside a simple mixed greens salad drizzled with olive oil and lemon for freshness.

Complement with Extra Toppings

• Crumbled Feta Cheese: Add a sprinkle of feta for a salty contrast that pairs well with shrimp and avocado.
• Sliced Radishes: Garnish with thinly sliced radishes for crunch and color.

Enhance Flavor Profiles

• Sriracha Drizzle: For those who like heat, a drizzle of sriracha can add an exciting kick to the dish.
• Pickled Onions: Serve with pickled onions on the side for a tangy flavor that complements the creamy sauce.

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

To achieve the best results when making your Grilled Shrimp Bowl, keep these tips in mind.

• Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp will provide better flavor and texture than frozen. If using frozen, ensure they are completely thawed.
• Marinate Longer: For deeper flavor, marinate the shrimp for at least 30 minutes before grilling.
• Preheat Your Grill: Ensure your grill is medium-high heat before cooking. This helps achieve that perfect char without overcooking.
• Watch Cooking Time: Grill shrimp for just 2-3 minutes per side. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery.
• Customize Your Salsa: Feel free to mix in other ingredients like diced tomatoes or mango for added sweetness and variety.
• Adjust Creaminess: If you prefer a thinner sauce, add a little water or extra lime juice to the creamy garlic sauce until desired consistency.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce

Pairing side dishes is essential for creating a complete meal. Here are some fantastic options to enjoy alongside your grilled shrimp bowl.

1. Cilantro Lime Rice: A fragrant rice dish infused with lime juice and chopped cilantro that complements the flavors of the bowl.
2. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus grilled to perfection add color and nutrients.
3. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and lemon vinaigrette enhances the healthy aspect of your meal.
4. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries offer a delightful sweetness that balances the savory elements of the bowl.
5. Chips and Guacamole: Classic tortilla chips served with guacamole provide a crunchy contrast and extra creaminess.
6. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw brings freshness and crunch while cutting through the richness of the creamy sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce, there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes to avoid:

• Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly; overcooking can make it tough. Grill for just 2-3 minutes per side until opaque.
• Skipping the marination: Not allowing the shrimp to marinate means missing out on flavor. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes before grilling.
• Ignoring ingredient quality: Using low-quality ingredients can affect taste. Always opt for fresh shrimp and ripe avocados for the best results.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: If you find the dish bland, remember that seasoning is key. Taste and adjust salt or spices as needed while prepping.
• Forgetting about garnishes: Garnishes add flavor and visual appeal. Don’t skip sesame seeds or green onions to enhance your bowl’s presentation.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Keep the creamy garlic sauce separate to maintain its texture.

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

• Freeze grilled shrimp and corn salsa in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Avoid freezing avocado, as it may become mushy once thawed.

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

• Oven: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (30 seconds), stirring between, until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium-low heat in a skillet, stirring gently until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making the Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce:

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes! Just ensure you thaw them completely before marinating and grilling.

What can I substitute for avocado?

If you’re not a fan of avocado, consider using diced mango or sliced cucumbers for a refreshing twist.

How do I customize the corn salsa?

Feel free to add diced tomatoes or bell peppers for extra flavor and color in your corn salsa.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the components separately and assemble right before serving to keep everything fresh.

Final Thoughts

The Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients or adjust it based on seasonal produce. This healthy meal is perfect for lunch or dinner—give it a try today!