Name: Savory Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado Explosion
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 lb large shrimp (Peel and devein); 1 tbsp olive oil (For grilling); 1 tsp paprika (For color and smokiness); ½ tsp garlic powder (For added flavor); ¼ tsp salt (To taste); ¼ tsp black pepper (To taste); ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (Optional for heat); 1 cup frozen corn (Thawed); ½ cup red onion (Diced); ¼ cup cilantro (Chopped); 1 unit jalapeño (Seeded and minced, optional); 1 unit lime (Juiced); Salt (To taste); ½ cup mayonnaise (For richness); ¼ cup sour cream (For tanginess); 1 tbsp cilantro (Chopped); 1 tbsp lemon juice (For brightness); 1 clove garlic (Minced); ¼ tsp salt (For seasoning); ¼ tsp black pepper (For flavor); 1 unit avocado (Sliced or mashed); Sesame seeds (For garnish); Green onions (Chopped, for garnish)

I could hardly believe my taste buds when I first tried a Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Corn Salsa and Avocado—it was like a summer fiesta on my plate! This easy dinner comes together in just 25 minutes, making it a lifesaver for those hectic weeknights when you crave something fresh and delicious, but don’t want to resort to takeout. The combination of perfectly grilled shrimp, zesty corn salsa, and creamy avocado not only pleases the palate but also brings a burst of colors to your table, ensuring it’s a hit with family and friends. Ready to dive into a dish that’s healthy, simple, and oh-so-satisfying? Let’s get cooking!

Why is this Grilled Shrimp Bowl special?

Simplicity at its Best: This delightful dish comes together in just 25 minutes, perfect for those busy evenings.

Burst of Freshness: The zesty corn salsa and creamy avocado create a vibrant contrast that excites your taste buds.

Customizable Choices: Feeling adventurous? Swap shrimp for grilled chicken or add your favorite veggies to the salsa for a unique twist!

Crowd-Pleaser: Great for gatherings, this bowl looks impressive and tastes amazing, making it a guaranteed hit at any dinner table.

Health-Conscious Dining: Packed with protein and healthy fats, this recipe checks all the boxes for a nutritious meal. Check out my Chicken Avocado Melt for another delicious option.

Grilled Shrimp Bowl Ingredients

• For those eager to savor this delightful dish, here’s a quick overview of what you’ll need!

For the Shrimp

1 lb large shrimp – Peel and devein for smooth cooking and easy enjoyment.
1 tbsp olive oil – Helps the shrimp sizzle beautifully while enhancing the flavor.
1 tsp paprika – Infuses smokiness and colors the shrimp perfectly.
½ tsp garlic powder – Adds a touch of warmth that elevates the taste.
¼ tsp salt – Essential for bringing out all the flavors.
¼ tsp black pepper – Introduces a hint of spice.
¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional) – For those who like a pinch of heat; customize to your preference.

For the Corn Salsa

1 cup frozen corn (thawed) – Sweetness and texture that complements the shrimp.
½ cup red onion (diced) – Offers a delightful crunch and sharpness to your salsa.
¼ cup cilantro (chopped) – A fresh hit of herbaceous goodness.
1 jalapeño (seeded and minced, optional) – Elevates your salsa with an extra layer of spice, if desired.
1 lime (juiced) – Brightens every bite with zesty freshness.
Salt to taste – Adjust for your final flavor balance.

For the Creamy Sauce

½ cup mayonnaise – Provides a rich and smooth base for your sauce.
¼ cup sour cream – Delivers extra creaminess and tanginess.
1 tbsp cilantro (chopped) – Enhances the fresh flavor of the sauce.
1 tbsp lemon juice – Brightens the sauce for a vibrant taste.
1 clove garlic (minced) – Adds depth to your creamy mixture.
¼ tsp salt – Important for seasoning the sauce properly.
¼ tsp black pepper – A dash of warmth rounds out the sauce perfectly.

For Serving

1 avocado (sliced or mashed) – The luscious element that pairs beautifully with the dish.
Sesame seeds (for garnish) – A nutty finish that looks and tastes fantastic.
Green onions (chopped, for garnish) – Adds color and brightness to your presentation.

Each ingredient plays a crucial role in making this Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado a delightful experience! Enjoy preparing this easy dinner that everyone will love.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado

Step 1: Preheat Your Grill
Start by preheating your grill or skillet over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes. This ensures that it reaches the perfect temperature for grilling. If using a grill, make sure to oil the grates lightly to prevent sticking. You should see small wisps of smoke rising as the grill heats up, indicating it’s ready for your shrimp.

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp
While the grill heats up, pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. In a mixing bowl, combine the shrimp with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if desired). Toss to coat evenly, ensuring every shrimp is seasoned. This step takes about 5 minutes and will enhance the flavor of your Grilled Shrimp Bowl beautifully.

Step 3: Grill the Shrimp
Once the shrimp are well-coated and the grill is hot, place the shrimp on it. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn opaque and have nice grill marks. You’ll know they’re done when they curl slightly and spring back when touched. Remove them from the grill and set aside for assembling your bowl.

Step 4: Make the Corn Salsa
In a separate bowl, combine the thawed corn, diced red onion, chopped cilantro, minced jalapeño (if using), lime juice, and salt to taste. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed. This vibrant corn salsa adds a delightful crunch and freshness to your Grilled Shrimp Bowl and takes only about 5 minutes to prepare.

Step 5: Whip Up the Creamy Sauce
In another bowl, stir together the mayonnaise, sour cream, chopped cilantro, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well-blended. This creamy sauce will be the perfect complement to the shrimp and corn salsa. It takes just a few minutes to prepare, adding richness and flavor to your bowl.

Step 6: Assemble Your Grilled Shrimp Bowl
To assemble your Grilled Shrimp Bowl, start with a generous base of corn salsa in each serving dish. Top it with the grilled shrimp, then drizzle a good amount of the creamy sauce over the top. Finally, add sliced or mashed avocado, garnishing with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for extra flavor and visual appeal.

Step 7: Serve and Savor
Your delicious Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado is now ready to relish! Serve immediately while warm, perhaps with lime wedges on the side for an extra zesty touch. Each bowl is a perfect blend of textures and flavors, making it an irresistible dinner option for your family and friends.

Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize this recipe to match your taste and dietary needs!

Chicken Alternative: Swap large shrimp for grilled chicken for a protein alternative that’s equally delicious. The smoky flavor of grilled chicken pairs beautifully with the corn salsa!
Fresh Corn Twist: Use fresh corn instead of frozen for a sweeter, more vibrant taste. Freshly grilled corn adds an irresistible pop of flavor!
Veggie Boost: Add diced bell peppers or tomatoes to the corn salsa for a colorful medley and additional nutrition. It’s an easy way to pack in more veggies!
Spicy Kick: Mix in extra jalapeños or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to spice things up. This variation is for those who love their food with a little heat!
Quinoa Base: For a heartier bowl, serve your shrimp and salsa over a bed of cooked quinoa. It adds fiber and elevates the dish to a filling meal.
Dairy-Free Creaminess: Use avocado or cashew cream in place of mayonnaise and sour cream for a rich and creamy, yet dairy-free, sauce option. You won’t even miss the dairy!
Herb Varieties: Experiment with different herbs like parsley or basil in the salsa for a refreshing twist. Each herb brings its own unique flavor profile to the bowl.
Tropical Vibes: Add diced mango or pineapple to your corn salsa for a fruity touch that brings a delightful sweetness to each bite. It’s an unexpected surprise that will brighten your dish!

If you’re looking for more delightful combinations, try these options alongside your Grilled Shrimp Bowl: check out my Sourdough Pesto Grilled Cheese for a comforting meal or dive into the flavors of my Shrimp Corn Bisque for something warm and satisfying.

What to Serve with Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Corn Salsa and Avocado

A beautiful grilled shrimp bowl deserves equally delightful companions to create a complete meal experience.

Cilantro Lime Rice: This fragrant, fluffy rice adds a fresh, zesty vibe, perfectly complementing the flavors in your bowl.
Grilled Vegetables: Charred bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus bring smoky sweetness and a touch of crunch that balances the dish.
Tortilla Chips with Guacamole: The crispy chips and creamy guacamole offer delightful textural contrast, making them the perfect appetizer or sidekick.
Black Bean Salad: This protein-packed salad introduces an earthy flavor, adding heartiness and fiber to your meal without overwhelming the main dish.
Mango Salsa: A sweet and tangy burst of flavor from fresh mangoes brings a tropical twist, enhancing the overall freshness of your shrimp bowl.
Chilled White Wine: A crisp, mineral-rich white wine pairs beautifully with the dish, enhancing the zesty notes and elevating your dining experience.
Pineapple Sorbet: For a refreshing dessert, this light and fruity treat cleanses the palate and rounds off the meal with delightful sweetness.

Make Ahead Options

Preparing your Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado ahead of time is a great way to save precious minutes during busy weeknights! You can whip up the corn salsa and creamy sauce up to 24 hours in advance, keeping them refrigerated in airtight containers to maintain their freshness. Just ensure you store the dressed avocado separately to prevent browning. When you’re ready to serve, simply grill the shrimp as directed—this takes about 6 minutes total—and assemble your bowl with the prepped ingredients for a quick, delicious meal. This way, you’ll enjoy all the flavors just as fresh and vibrant, with minimal effort!

Storage Tips for Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado

Fridge: Store the grilled shrimp in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness. Keep the corn salsa and creamy sauce in separate containers to prevent sogginess.

Freezer: The shrimp can be frozen for up to 2 months. Cool completely, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible before sealing.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat shrimp in a skillet on medium heat for 3-4 minutes until warmed through. Avoid reheating the avocado and salsa.

Make-Ahead: Prepare the corn salsa and sauce up to a day in advance for enhanced flavors, ensuring they stay in the fridge until ready to assemble your Grilled Shrimp Bowl.

Expert Tips for Grilled Shrimp Bowl

Dry the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp completely dry before seasoning to achieve a better sear and enhanced flavor.
Swap Proteins: Feel free to substitute shrimp with grilled chicken for a delicious protein alternative while still getting that satisfying Grilled Shrimp Bowl experience.
Salsa Freshness: Store the corn salsa separately from the shrimp and sauce to maintain freshness and avoid sogginess in your bowl.
Cayenne Control: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your taste preference; start with a little and add more if you want extra heat.
Fresh Corn: Consider using fresh corn instead of frozen for a sweeter, more vibrant salsa that elevates your dish.
Garnish Wisely: Don’t skip the sesame seeds and green onions—they add a beautiful finish and extra layers of flavor to your Grilled Shrimp Bowl!

Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right shrimp for my Grilled Shrimp Bowl?
Absolutely! When selecting shrimp, opt for large shrimp that are fresh or properly frozen. Look for shrimp that are firm to the touch and have a mild ocean scent. Avoid any that have dark spots all over or an overpowering fishy smell, which indicates they’ve been sitting around too long. If possible, buy shrimp that are already peeled and deveined for convenience.

How should I store leftover Grilled Shrimp Bowl components?
Very good question! Store the grilled shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Always keep the corn salsa and creamy sauce in separate containers to prevent them from becoming soggy. It’s key to keep the avocado separate until you’re ready to serve it to avoid browning.

Can I freeze the grilled shrimp for later use?
Absolutely! To freeze, make sure the shrimp are completely cooled. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible before sealing. You can store them in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge and reheat in a skillet on medium heat for about 3-4 minutes until warmed through.

What should I do if my shrimp are overcooked and tough?
Oh no! If you’ve overcooked your shrimp and they turned tough, don’t despair. For the next time, aim for a cooking time of just 2-3 minutes per side until they turn opaque and curl up. If you find yourself with overcooked shrimp, consider chopping them up and mixing them into your corn salsa or creamy sauce for a second chance at great flavor!

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Yes! If you’re serving this Grilled Shrimp Bowl to family or friends, be mindful of shrimp allergies, which are common. You can easily swap the shrimp for grilled chicken or even tofu to accommodate different dietary preferences. You could also adjust the ingredients in the sauce if you have specific dietary restrictions, opting for a yogurt base instead of mayonnaise for a lighter version.

Can I prepare the corn salsa and sauce in advance?
Absolutely! I often make the corn salsa and sauce a day ahead to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. Just store them in the fridge in separate containers. When ready to assemble your Grilled Shrimp Bowl, ensure to dress the avocado separately to keep it fresh and green. This little step can enhance your mealtime experience!