Welcome to a truly vibrant and wholesome meal that’s perfect for any day! This Grilled Shrimp Bowl Recipe features succulent grilled shrimp, a bright and zesty avocado corn salsa, and a creamy garlic sauce that ties everything together beautifully. It comes together quickly, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights, yet it feels special enough for a relaxed weekend lunch. Get ready to enjoy a satisfying, complete meal that’s bursting with flavor!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Grilled Shrimp Bowl Recipe
- Taste Sensation: Experience a delightful blend of smoky grilled shrimp, sweet corn, creamy avocado, and tangy lime. Each bite is an explosion of fresh, savory flavors.
- Lightning Fast: This entire Grilled Shrimp Bowl Recipe is designed for speed. You can have a delicious and healthy meal on the table in under 30 minutes, perfect for juggling busy schedules.
- Nutrient-Packed: It’s a powerhouse of lean protein from shrimp, healthy fats from avocado and olive oil, and fiber-rich vegetables. It’s a meal you can feel good about. Shrimp is not only a delicious lean protein but also a powerhouse of nutrients, including iodine, antioxidants, and omega-3 fatty acids, according to Healthline’s detailed analysis of the nutritional benefits of shrimp.
- Super Versatile: Easily customize the components to fit your dietary preferences or what you have on hand. It adapts beautifully to various tastes.
- Effortlessly Impressive: Whether it’s a simple weeknight dinner or a casual summer gathering, this bowl is sure to impress with its fresh look and incredible taste.
Ingredients
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful Grilled Shrimp Bowl Recipe. We’re focusing on fresh, high-quality components for the best flavor!
For the Grilled Shrimp:
- 1 lb. large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a kick)
For the Avocado Corn Salsa:
- 1 cup frozen corn, thawed
- ½ cup red onion, diced
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional, for mild heat)
- 1 lime, juiced
- Salt to taste
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For Assembling the Bowls:
- 1 fresh avocado, sliced or mashed
- Sesame seeds for garnish
- Green onions, chopped, for garnish
Notes & Substitutions:
You can use either fresh or frozen shrimp; just ensure it’s thawed and patted dry. Adjust the spice level of the shrimp by increasing or decreasing cayenne pepper, or add red pepper flakes. For the salsa, feel free to add diced bell peppers or black beans for extra color and texture. If you want a lighter creamy sauce, swap the sour cream for plain Greek yogurt. This bowl is also fantastic served over a base like brown rice, quinoa, or fresh mixed greens.
Equipment
Having the right tools makes cooking this Grilled Shrimp Bowl Recipe even easier!
- Grill or grill pan
- Large and small mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board and sharp knife
- Whisk for the sauce
- Citrus juicer
How To Make This Grilled Shrimp Bowl Recipe
Let’s create your delicious Grilled Shrimp Bowl Recipe step by step. Each part comes together quickly for a seamless cooking experience.
Prep the Shrimp:
Start by ensuring your shrimp are thoroughly cleaned, peeled, and deveined. Pat them completely dry with paper towels; this helps them sear nicely. In a medium bowl, combine the shrimp with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and the optional cayenne pepper. Toss gently until all the shrimp are evenly coated with the seasoning blend. Set them aside for a few minutes while you prepare the other components.
Make the Corn Salsa:
If using frozen corn, ensure it is fully thawed. You can run it under cool water or let it sit at room temperature. Next, dice your red onion finely and mince the optional jalapeño, removing the seeds if you prefer less heat. In a separate bowl, combine the thawed corn, diced red onion, fresh chopped cilantro, minced jalapeño (if using), and the fresh juice from one lime. Season with salt to taste and mix all the ingredients gently. Cover and set this vibrant salsa aside, allowing the flavors to meld.
Prepare the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, fresh chopped cilantro, fresh lemon juice, and minced garlic clove. Whisk these ingredients together until the sauce is smooth and well combined. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed to achieve your desired flavor profile. This creamy sauce adds a wonderful tang and richness to the Grilled Shrimp Bowl Recipe.
Grill the Shrimp:
Preheat your grill or grill pan to a medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates or pan to prevent sticking. Once hot, arrange the seasoned shrimp in a single layer on the grill. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque throughout. Be careful not to overcook them, as shrimp can become tough very quickly. Remove the perfectly grilled shrimp from the heat immediately.
Assemble Your Bowls:
Now it’s time to bring everything together for your beautiful Grilled Shrimp Bowl Recipe! Divide the fresh avocado corn salsa among your individual serving bowls. Arrange the hot, grilled shrimp neatly on top of the salsa. Add slices or mashed fresh avocado to each bowl. Drizzle generously with the creamy garlic sauce you prepared earlier. For a finishing touch, garnish each bowl with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and some fresh chopped green onions. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Pro Tips & Troubleshooting
- Don’t Overcook Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly! Keep a close eye on them and remove them from the heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque. Overcooked shrimp are rubbery. The USDA provides clear guidelines on the safe minimum internal temperature for seafood like shrimp, ensuring it is safe to eat and perfectly cooked.
- Flavor Boost: If you have extra time, marinate the seasoned shrimp for an additional 15-20 minutes in the refrigerator before grilling. This allows the flavors to deepen.
- Perfect Avocado: Choose avocados that are ripe but still slightly firm for easy slicing. If your avocado is too soft, mashing it is a great option.
- Freshness is Key: Using freshly squeezed lime and lemon juice, along with fresh cilantro, makes a huge difference in the overall flavor of this Grilled Shrimp Bowl Recipe.
- Meal Prep Savvy: Prepare the corn salsa and creamy garlic sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This makes assembly on a busy weeknight a breeze.
Serving, Storage, and Variations
This versatile Grilled Shrimp Bowl Recipe offers many ways to enjoy and adapt it!
Grilled Shrimp Bowl Recipe Serving Suggestions:
Serve this delightful bowl immediately as a satisfying light lunch or a complete dinner. For a heartier meal, consider adding a base of fluffy brown rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice. It also pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette.
Storage Tips:
To maintain freshness, store the grilled shrimp, corn salsa, and creamy garlic sauce in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. They will keep well for 2-3 days. Avocado browns quickly once cut, so it’s best to add fresh avocado right before serving any leftovers.
Recipe Variations:
- Protein Swap: Not a fan of shrimp? This bowl works beautifully with other proteins! Try grilled chicken breast cut into strips or flakes of firm white fish like cod or snapper.
- Vegetable Boost: Load up on more veggies by adding diced bell peppers, a handful of black beans, or halved cherry tomatoes to your corn salsa.
- Spicier Kick: For those who love heat, increase the amount of cayenne pepper in the shrimp marinade or add a pinch of chili powder. A dash of hot sauce in the creamy sauce also works!
- Herb Twist: Experiment with different herbs. While cilantro is classic, fresh parsley or dill can offer a unique flavor profile in the creamy sauce.
Nutrition
This Grilled Shrimp Bowl Recipe is a fantastic example of a meal that’s both delicious and healthy. It provides an excellent source of lean protein from the shrimp, essential for muscle health and satiety. You’ll also benefit from healthy fats, primarily from the avocado and olive oil, which support heart health. Furthermore, the fresh vegetables contribute ample fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making this a truly balanced and health-conscious meal choice.
FAQ
- Can I use frozen shrimp for this Grilled Shrimp Bowl Recipe? Yes, absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator overnight or under cold running water before seasoning and grilling.
- How do I make the bowls spicier? You can increase the amount of cayenne pepper in the shrimp seasoning or add a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the creamy garlic sauce.
- Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can! The corn salsa and creamy garlic sauce can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored separately in the refrigerator. Grill the shrimp just before serving for the best texture.
- What can I substitute for sour cream in the sauce? Plain Greek yogurt is an excellent substitute for sour cream. It offers a similar creamy texture and tangy flavor while being a bit lighter.
- Is this recipe gluten-free? Yes, this Grilled Shrimp Bowl Recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a wonderful option for those with gluten sensitivities or preferences.
Conclusion
This Grilled Shrimp Bowl Recipe is more than just a meal; it’s an invitation to bring vibrant, fresh flavors into your kitchen with minimal effort. It embodies simplicity, deliciousness, and health in one beautiful bowl. Whether you’re seeking a quick weeknight dinner or a bright, satisfying lunch, this recipe delivers every time. We hope you feel confident and inspired to whip up this versatile dish! Don’t forget to share your own twists and variations on this delightful bowl.
Grilled Shrimp Bowl Recipe with Avocado Corn Salsa
Equipment
- bowl
- Grill
- Whisk
Ingredients
For the Shrimp
- 1 lb. shrimp large, 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 the Bowl
- 1 avocado sliced (or mashed)
- sesame seeds for garnish
- green onions chopped, for garnish
Instructions
Prep the Shrimp
- Combine shrimp with olive oil and spices (paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and optional cayenne) in a bowl, then toss to coat.
Make the Corn Salsa
- Gently mix thawed corn, diced red onion, chopped cilantro, minced jalapeño (if using), lime juice, and salt in a bowl.
Grill the Shrimp
- Grill the seasoned shrimp over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side or until cooked through.
Make the Creamy Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, chopped cilantro, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
Assemble the Bowls
- Divide the corn salsa among bowls, top with grilled shrimp and avocado, then drizzle with creamy garlic sauce. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.