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

A Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce is not just a meal; it’s an experience. This dish combines succulent grilled shrimp with fresh avocado and vibrant corn salsa, all drizzled with a creamy garlic sauce. It’s perfect for lunch or dinner and caters to various dietary preferences. The blend of flavors and textures makes it a standout choice for any occasion, whether hosting friends or enjoying a quiet night at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe takes only 25 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of spices and fresh ingredients creates a delicious taste that excites the palate.
• Healthy Option: With lean shrimp and fresh veggies, this bowl is packed with nutrients while being low in calories.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the spice level or add extra toppings to suit your preferences.
• Beautiful Presentation: The colorful ingredients make this dish visually appealing, perfect for impressing guests.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin, gather your kitchen tools to 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 achieving the perfect char on the shrimp, enhancing their flavor.
• Mixing bowls: Useful for combining ingredients without making a mess.
• Whisk: Helps to create a smooth creamy sauce by thoroughly mixing the components.
• Knife: A sharp knife is necessary for dicing vegetables and slicing the avocado efficiently.

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 the shrimp with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if you’re using it. Toss everything together until the shrimp are well 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 salt. Gently stir to combine all ingredients and set aside.

Step 3: Grill the Shrimp

Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium heat. Place the shrimp on the grill and cook them for 2-3 minutes on each side or until they are pink and opaque throughout.

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

To serve, divide the corn salsa between two bowls. Top each with grilled shrimp and sliced or mashed avocado. Drizzle generously with Creamy Garlic Sauce. Finish off by garnishing with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.

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

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 your dining experience. Here are some delightful ways to present this dish for you and your guests.

Use Fresh Greens

• Lettuce Wraps: Serve the shrimp bowl in large lettuce leaves for a fun, low-carb alternative.
• Mixed Greens: Place the shrimp bowl on a bed of mixed greens to add extra crunch and nutrition.

Add Extra Toppings

• Feta Cheese: Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top for a creamy contrast.
• Sliced Jalapeños: For those who love heat, add fresh jalapeño slices as a spicy garnish.

Pair with Grains

• Quinoa or Rice: Serve over cooked quinoa or rice to make the bowl more filling.
• Cauliflower Rice: For a lighter option, use cauliflower rice as a base.

Make it a Platter

• Family Style: Present all components separately on a large platter, allowing guests to customize their bowls.
• Tapas Style: Create mini bowls for a fun sharing experience at parties.

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

Perfecting your Grilled Shrimp Bowl is easy with these helpful tips. Enhance the flavors and presentation for an unforgettable meal.

• Seasoning: Ensure the shrimp are well-seasoned before grilling for maximum flavor.
• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh ingredients for the corn salsa and sauce to brighten up the dish.
• Grill Temperature: Preheat the grill to medium heat. This ensures even cooking without drying out the shrimp.
• Rest the Shrimp: Let grilled shrimp rest for a minute before serving. This helps keep them juicy.

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

Complementing your Grilled Shrimp Bowl with side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some great options that pair perfectly.

1. Garlic Bread: A crispy garlic bread complements the creamy garlic sauce beautifully.
2. Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw adds crunch and balances the rich flavors of the bowl.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring color and flavor while being nutritious.
4. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread offers a comforting touch alongside the savory shrimp dish.
5. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad provides a sweet contrast that refreshes the palate.
6. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges are always a crowd-pleaser and add heartiness to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing a Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that could affect your meal’s taste and texture.

• Skipping the Marinade: Not marinating shrimp can result in bland flavors. Make sure to allow the shrimp to soak in the olive oil and spices for at least 15 minutes.
• Overcooking the Shrimp: Overcooked shrimp become rubbery and tough. Grill them for only 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque.
• Ignoring Ingredient Quality: Using low-quality ingredients can ruin your dish. Choose fresh, high-quality shrimp and ripe avocados for the best flavor.
• Underseasoning the Salsa: A bland corn salsa can make your bowl unexciting. Be generous with lime juice and seasonings to enhance the flavors.
• Not Allowing Time for Cooling: Assembling your bowl when ingredients are too hot can make the avocado mushy. Let grilled shrimp cool slightly before combining.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in airtight containers.
• Consume within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.

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

• Freeze shrimp separately from the salsa and sauce for best results.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

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

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place shrimp on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds, stirring in between to prevent uneven heating.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, warm shrimp until heated through without overcooking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp for this Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce?

Yes, frozen shrimp works well as long as you thaw them properly before marinating.

What can I substitute for sour cream in the creamy garlic sauce?

Greek yogurt is an excellent alternative that adds creaminess while keeping it healthy.

How do I make this dish spicy?

Add more cayenne pepper or include additional diced jalapeños in your corn salsa to increase heat.

Can I prepare the corn salsa ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make corn salsa a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator to let the flavors meld together.

What other toppings work well with this dish?

Consider adding feta cheese or diced tomatoes to enhance flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

The Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spice levels. This dish is perfect for lunch or dinner, ensuring you enjoy a healthy meal full of flavor. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; it’s bound to impress!