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

Published: August 18, 2025

by Vanessaa

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: Ready in just 25 minutes, this dish is ideal for busy days.
Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein and healthy fats, it’s heart-smart and satisfying.
Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a main dish or serve it as part of a larger spread.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of spices and fresh ingredients creates a delightful taste experience.
Customizable: Adjust the spice levels or add your favorite toppings to make it your own.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce successfully, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment can streamline your cooking process and ensure great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Grill or grill pan
Mixing bowls
Whisk
Knife
Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

Grill or grill pan: Provides the perfect char and flavor to the shrimp.
Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without spilling.
Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth texture in your creamy garlic sauce.
Knife: A sharp knife will make prepping vegetables quick and safe.

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 Grilled 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 Garnish

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

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

Step 1: Prep the Shrimp

In a bowl, combine shrimp, olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper if you’re using it. Toss to coat evenly.

Step 2: Make the Corn Salsa

In another bowl, combine corn, red onion, jalapeño if desired, cilantro, lime juice, and salt. Mix gently and set aside to let the flavors meld.

Step 3: Grill the Shrimp

Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium heat. Grill the shrimp for 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, cilantro, lime juice, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until smooth.

Step 5: Assemble the Bowls

Divide corn salsa among serving bowls. Top each with grilled shrimp and slices of avocado. Drizzle generously with creamy garlic sauce. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving.

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

Serving your Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce can elevate the dining experience. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this delicious meal.

Use Colorful Bowls

Choose vibrant bowls to enhance the visual appeal of the dish. Bright colors can make the meal feel more festive and inviting.

Add Fresh Lime Wedges

Serve with lime wedges on the side. A squeeze of fresh lime juice adds a burst of flavor that complements the shrimp and salsa perfectly.

Include Tortilla Chips

Offer crispy tortilla chips for a delightful crunch. They can be used to scoop up the corn salsa or to enjoy alongside the bowl.

Top with Extra Cilantro

Garnish with additional chopped cilantro. It not only adds color but also enhances the fresh flavor profile of your Grilled Shrimp Bowl.

Customize with Hot Sauce

Provide a selection of hot sauces for those who like a spicy kick. This allows guests to personalize their bowls according to their taste preferences.

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

Perfecting your Grilled Shrimp Bowl involves attention to detail and a few helpful tips. Here’s how you can make it even better.

Choose Quality Shrimp: Always opt for fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
Marinate Longer: For enhanced flavor, marinate the shrimp for at least 30 minutes before grilling.
Preheat the Grill: Ensure your grill is hot before adding the shrimp. This helps achieve sear marks and prevents sticking.
Mix Varieties in Salsa: Experiment with different ingredients in your corn salsa, like diced bell peppers or mango for added sweetness.
Adjust Creaminess: Modify the creaminess of your sauce by adjusting sour cream and mayo ratios according to your preference.
Try Different Proteins: Substitute shrimp with other proteins like chicken or tofu if you want variety in your bowls.

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

Side dishes can complement your Grilled Shrimp Bowl beautifully. Here are some excellent options to consider.

Mexican Rice: Flavored rice seasoned with spices that pairs well with shrimp and adds heartiness.
Grilled Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies grilled until tender provides additional nutrients and color.
Black Beans: Serve warm black beans as a protein-packed option that adds richness and flavor balance.
Cilantro Lime Quinoa: Quinoa tossed with cilantro and lime is a healthy alternative that’s both filling and refreshing.
Pico de Gallo: Fresh tomato salsa offers a bright, zesty burst that complements the flavors of your bowl.
Corn on the Cob: Charred corn on the cob brings sweetness, which pairs nicely with the savory elements of the dish.
Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread makes for a delightful side, perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce.
Caesar Salad: A light Caesar salad provides crunch and freshness, balancing out the richness of creamy sauces.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

Skipping the Marinade: Not marinating the shrimp long enough can result in bland flavor. Make sure to let the shrimp sit in the marinade for at least 15 minutes to absorb all those tasty spices.
Overcooking the Shrimp: Cooking shrimp for too long can make it tough and rubbery. Grill them for just 2-3 minutes per side until they are pink and opaque.
Using Frozen Corn Directly: If you don’t thaw your frozen corn, it may not mix well with other ingredients. Always thaw corn first, ensuring a better texture and flavor.
Ignoring Fresh Ingredients: Using old or wilted vegetables can diminish the dish’s freshness. Always opt for fresh herbs and produce for the best results.
Not Adjusting Seasoning: Failing to taste and adjust seasoning can lead to an unbalanced flavor. After mixing your corn salsa and creamy garlic sauce, always taste and add more salt or lime juice as needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container.
The Grilled Shrimp Bowl will stay fresh for up to 2 days in the refrigerator.

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

You can freeze the shrimp and corn salsa separately.
Wrap them tightly in freezer-safe containers or bags; they last up to 3 months.

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

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the bowl covered with foil for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Microwave: Heat on medium power in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until hot.
Stovetop: Heat a pan over medium heat. Add a splash of water or oil, then add your bowl contents, stirring until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make a spicy version of Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce?

You can add more cayenne pepper to the shrimp marinade or include diced jalapeños in your corn salsa for extra heat.

Can I use other seafood instead of shrimp?

Yes! Feel free to substitute scallops or fish fillets like tilapia or salmon for a different flavor profile while keeping the same delicious toppings.

How can I customize my corn salsa?

You can add diced tomatoes, bell peppers, or even black beans for additional flavors and textures.

Is there a vegan option for this recipe?

Absolutely! Use grilled tofu instead of shrimp and replace mayonnaise with a vegan alternative to create a plant-based version of this dish.

Final Thoughts

The Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce is not only delicious but also versatile. It’s perfect for lunch or dinner and allows room for customization based on your preferences. Try adding different proteins or veggies to make it uniquely yours! Enjoy this healthy meal that pleases both family and friends alike!

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