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

A Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce is the perfect dish for any occasion. This vibrant and nutritious bowl is packed with flavor and textures that will delight your taste buds. Enjoy it for a light lunch, a hearty dinner, or even as a meal prep option for the week. Its standout feature is the creamy garlic sauce that adds richness to the fresh ingredients, making it a favorite among shrimp lovers and health-conscious eaters alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 25 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of grilled shrimp, corn salsa, and creamy garlic sauce creates an explosion of flavors.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect for lunch or dinner, this bowl can also be customized with your favorite toppings or sides.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with protein and fresh veggies, this dish supports a balanced diet without sacrificing taste.
• Eye-Catching Presentation: The colorful layers make it not only delicious but also visually appealing.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare your Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce efficiently, having the right tools on hand makes all the difference.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or grill pan: Essential for achieving that perfect char on the shrimp, enhancing flavor and texture.
• Mixing bowls: Useful for combining ingredients without mess; you can prepare sauces and salsas easily.
• Whisk: A must-have for blending sauces smoothly; ensures your creamy garlic sauce has a great consistency.

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 Assembly

• 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 desired. Toss until all shrimp are evenly coated.

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 add salt to taste. Gently stir until combined.

Step 3: Grill the Shrimp

Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium heat. Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until they are opaque and 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 corn salsa between serving bowls. Top with grilled shrimp and sliced or mashed avocado. Drizzle generously with creamy garlic sauce. Finally, garnish each bowl with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.

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

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

Serving a Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce is all about creating a delightful experience. Here are some creative ways to present and enjoy this delicious dish.

Add a Crunch

• Tortilla Chips: Serve alongside crispy tortilla chips for added texture and a fun crunch.
• Lettuce Cups: Use large lettuce leaves as wraps for a fresh, low-carb option.

Enhance the Flavor

• Fresh Lime Wedges: Include lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of citrus that brightens the flavors.
• Sriracha or Hot Sauce: For those who love heat, provide Sriracha or your favorite hot sauce for drizzling.

Pair with Drinks

• Iced Tea: A refreshing glass of iced tea complements the meal well, especially on warm days.
• Sparkling Water: Offer sparkling water with lemon or lime slices for a light and refreshing beverage option.

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

To elevate your Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh shrimp and ripe avocados to enhance flavor and texture.
• Marinate the Shrimp: For an extra layer of flavor, marinate the shrimp in the spice mix for at least 30 minutes before grilling.
• Adjust Spiciness: Feel free to modify the amount of cayenne pepper based on your heat preference.
• Experiment with Toppings: Try adding diced tomatoes or mango for different flavor profiles in your corn salsa.

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

Pairing side dishes can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options to serve alongside your Grilled Shrimp Bowl.

1. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with herbs and cherry tomatoes provides a nutritious complement to the bowl.
2. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal grilled veggies add color and flavor; think bell peppers and zucchini.
3. Rice Pilaf: A fragrant rice pilaf adds heartiness to the meal while balancing the flavors of the shrimp bowl.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers crunch and acidity that pairs nicely with the creamy garlic sauce.
5. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes roasted until crispy are a sweet addition that contrasts well with savory shrimp.
6. Garlic Bread: For those who love carbs, garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce, it’s important to avoid common pitfalls that can affect flavor and texture. Here are some mistakes to watch out for.

• Skipping the marination: Not allowing the shrimp to marinate for a bit can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to let them sit in the seasoning mixture for at least 15 minutes.
• Overcooking the shrimp: Cooking shrimp for too long can make them tough. Grill them just until opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side.
• Ignoring ingredient quality: Using low-quality ingredients can ruin your dish. Always opt for fresh shrimp and ripe avocados for the best taste.
• Neglecting the sauce: A bland sauce will undercut the dish’s overall flavor. Be sure to whisk the creamy garlic sauce well and taste it before serving; adjust seasoning as needed.
• Using frozen corn straight from the bag: If you don’t thaw frozen corn properly, it may affect consistency in your salsa. Ensure it’s fully thawed and drained before mixing.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The Grilled Shrimp Bowl will last up to 2 days in the fridge.

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

• Freeze shrimp separately from salsa and toppings for best results.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags. It will keep for up to 3 months.

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

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 10-15 minutes or until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals on medium power until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over medium heat in a pan, stirring frequently, until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making this delicious Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce.

Can I use fresh shrimp instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh shrimp works beautifully! Just make sure they are cleaned and deveined properly.

What can I substitute for avocado?

You can use guacamole or omit it entirely if you prefer a lighter bowl.

How spicy is the corn salsa?

The spice level depends on whether you include jalapeño. You can adjust it based on your preference!

What other toppings work well with this grilled shrimp bowl?

Feel free to add diced tomatoes, radishes, or even feta cheese for added flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

The Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce is both healthy and satisfying. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients according to your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try for lunch or dinner; you’ll love how refreshing and delicious it is!