Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce
Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce is an exciting, healthy option for lunch or dinner. This dish combines succulent grilled shrimp with fresh avocado and a vibrant corn salsa, all topped with a creamy garlic sauce. It’s perfect for gatherings, meal prep, or simply enjoying a nourishing meal at home. With its colorful presentation and delightful flavors, this bowl is sure to impress your family and friends.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With just 25 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Packed with Flavor: The combination of seasoned shrimp, zesty corn salsa, and creamy garlic sauce creates a burst of deliciousness in every bite.
- Healthy Ingredients: This bowl is loaded with fresh vegetables and lean protein, making it a heart-smart choice.
- Versatile Dish: Customize your bowl by adding your favorite ingredients or adjusting the spice level to suit your taste.
- Great for Meal Prep: Make multiple servings ahead of time for easy lunches throughout the week.
Tools and Preparation
To prepare your Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce efficiently, having the right tools is essential.
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 heat for cooking shrimp quickly while adding that delicious charred flavor.
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without mess and ensuring even distribution of flavors.
- Whisk: Helps blend the creamy garlic sauce smoothly without lumps.
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.
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:
1. The shrimp
2. Olive oil
3. Paprika
4. Garlic powder
5. Salt
6. Black pepper
7. Cayenne pepper (if using)
Toss to coat all the shrimp evenly in the seasoning mixture.
Step 2: Make the Corn Salsa
In another bowl, mix together:
– Thawed corn
– Diced red onion
– Minced jalapeño (if using)
– Chopped cilantro
– Lime juice
– Salt
Gently mix until combined and set aside.
Step 3: Grill the Shrimp
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium heat. Grill the shrimp for:
– 2–3 minutes per side
Cook until they are pink 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
– Black pepper
Mix until smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Assemble the Bowls
Divide the corn salsa between two bowls. Top each with:
– Grilled shrimp
– Sliced or mashed avocado
Drizzle generously with creamy garlic sauce. Garnish each bowl with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving.
Enjoy your healthy 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 creates a delightful meal that is both colorful and nutritious. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.
Casual Family Dinner
- Family Style: Serve the bowls in the center of the table, allowing everyone to customize their own with shrimp, salsa, and sauce. This encourages sharing and conversation.
Lunch Prep
- Meal Prep Containers: Pack individual servings in airtight containers for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week. The flavors meld beautifully when stored.
Festive Gatherings
- Buffet Style: For parties or gatherings, set up a buffet station with all components separate. Guests can build their own bowls according to their preferences.
Picnic Perfect
- Portable Bowls: Assemble the ingredients in mason jars for a fun picnic meal. Layer the corn salsa at the bottom and top with shrimp and avocado to keep everything fresh.
Light Appetizer
- Mini Bowls: Serve smaller portions as an appetizer at gatherings. Use shot glasses or small bowls for an elegant touch while keeping things light.
How to Perfect Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce
Perfecting your Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce can take this dish from tasty to extraordinary. Follow these tips for best results.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh shrimp and ripe avocados enhance flavor. Always opt for seasonal produce for the best taste.
- Marinate the Shrimp: Letting shrimp marinate for 30 minutes before grilling can deepen flavors significantly. This step is especially beneficial if using spices.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Customize heat by altering cayenne pepper or jalapeño amounts based on your preference. Keep it mild or amp it up!
- Experiment with Toppings: Try adding feta cheese or sliced radishes for additional texture and flavor variations.
- Preheat the Grill Well: Ensuring your grill is properly heated helps achieve that perfect char while keeping shrimp juicy inside.
- Serve Immediately: For the best experience, serve immediately after assembling. This keeps everything fresh and vibrant.
Best Side Dishes for Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce
Pairing side dishes with your Grilled Shrimp Bowl can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers and tomatoes adds a refreshing crunch that complements the bowl’s flavors.
- Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread serves as a delightful contrast to the creamy sauce while providing a comforting side.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted vegetables such as zucchini and bell peppers bring out natural sweetness and add color to your plate.
- Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that pairs perfectly, cauliflower rice absorbs flavors well without overpowering.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity that balances out the creamy garlic sauce beautifully.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries offer a hint of sweetness that contrasts nicely with savory elements of the bowl.
- Cornbread Muffins: These fluffy muffins are perfect for scooping up any leftover salsa or sauce from your bowl.
- Grilled Asparagus: Lightly grilled asparagus adds elegance and enhances the meal’s visual appeal while being healthy too.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing a Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:
-
Not seasoning the shrimp properly: Failing to season the shrimp can lead to bland flavors. Ensure you coat the shrimp evenly with spices for maximum taste.
-
Overcooking the shrimp: Cooking shrimp too long makes them rubbery and tough. Grill them just until they turn pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side.
-
Using unripe avocados: An unripe avocado can ruin your dish’s texture. Always choose ripe avocados that yield slightly when pressed for the best flavor.
-
Skipping the creamy garlic sauce: This sauce adds richness and depth to the bowl. Don’t skip it! Whisk together all ingredients thoroughly for a smooth blend.
-
Ignoring ingredient freshness: Fresh ingredients make a big difference in flavor. Use fresh corn, herbs, and lime juice for the best results.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
- The bowl will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
- Keep the avocado separate to prevent browning.
Freezing Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce
- You can freeze the grilled shrimp and corn salsa separately.
- Store in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 2 months.
- Avoid freezing avocado; it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Reheating Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish covered with foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Heat on low-medium in a skillet until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is included in the Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce?
This bowl features grilled shrimp paired with fresh avocado slices, zesty corn salsa, and a rich creamy garlic sauce.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Feel free to add extra cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños into your corn salsa for an added kick!
Can I substitute shrimp with another protein?
Yes! You can use chicken or tofu instead of shrimp. Adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure proper doneness.
How do I store leftovers from my Grilled Shrimp Bowl?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Keep avocado separate if possible.
Final Thoughts
The Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce is not just delicious; it’s also versatile. You can customize each component to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Try it today and enjoy this vibrant meal that brings joy to any lunch or dinner table!
Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 2
Description
Indulge in a vibrant and nutritious Grilled Shrimp Bowl that combines succulent grilled shrimp with creamy avocado, zesty corn salsa, and a flavorful garlic sauce. This dish is not only quick to prepare, taking just 25 minutes from start to finish, but it also packs a punch with its fresh ingredients and delightful flavors. Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or festive gatherings, this bowl is customizable to suit all tastes. Impress your family and friends with this heart-smart option that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup thawed frozen corn
- 1 avocado (sliced or mashed)
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- 1 lime (juiced)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- ½ cup red onion (diced)
- ¼ cup cilantro (chopped)
- 1 jalapeño (seeded and minced) (optional)
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp: In a bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne (if desired) until evenly coated.
- Make Corn Salsa: Mix together thawed corn, diced red onion, chopped cilantro, lime juice, and salt in another bowl.
- Grill the Shrimp: Preheat grill or grill pan over medium heat; grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through.
- Prepare Creamy Garlic Sauce: Whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until smooth.
- Assemble Bowls: Divide corn salsa between bowls and top with grilled shrimp and avocado slices. Drizzle with creamy garlic sauce before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 400g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 22g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 200mg
