Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce
A Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce is the perfect meal for any occasion. This dish combines succulent grilled shrimp with a vibrant corn salsa and creamy garlic sauce, creating a flavorful explosion in every bite. Whether you’re looking for a healthy lunch or a satisfying dinner, this bowl is sure to please your taste buds and keep you feeling great.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: This dish comes together in just 25 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Packed with Flavor: The combination of spices and fresh ingredients creates a delightful medley that excites your palate.
- Versatile Meal Options: Enjoy it as a light lunch or hearty dinner; it’s suitable for any time of day.
- Nutritious Ingredients: With lean shrimp, fresh veggies, and healthy fats from avocado, this bowl supports a balanced diet.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the spice level or swap out ingredients based on your preferences.
Tools and Preparation
To make this delicious Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce, you’ll need some essential tools to streamline the cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet or grill
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet or grill: Perfect for achieving that smoky flavor when grilling shrimp.
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without mess.
- Whisk: Ideal for blending the creamy garlic sauce smoothly.
- Knife and cutting board: Crucial for prepping your fresh ingredients 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 Assembling the Bowl
- 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 using. Toss to coat each shrimp evenly.
Step 2: Make the Corn Salsa
In another bowl, combine thawed corn, diced red onion, minced jalapeño if using, chopped cilantro, lime juice, and salt. Mix gently and set aside while you grill the shrimp.
Step 3: Grill the Shrimp
Preheat your grill or skillet over medium heat. Grill the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are cooked through.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, chopped cilantro, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
Step 5: Assemble the Bowls
Divide the corn salsa among serving bowls. Top each bowl 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.
Now you have a delightful Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce that’s ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce
Serving the Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce can elevate your meal experience. This dish is versatile and can be customized to suit various tastes and occasions.
For a Fresh Lunch
- Lettuce Wraps: Serve in large lettuce leaves for a light and refreshing option that keeps it low-carb.
- Quinoa Base: Replace rice with quinoa for added protein and a nutty flavor.
As a Dinner Delight
- Cilantro Lime Rice: Pair the bowl with fluffy cilantro lime rice for an extra burst of flavor.
- Grilled Vegetables: Add grilled seasonal vegetables on the side for a colorful presentation.
For Meal Prepping
- Single-Serve Containers: Pack individual bowls for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.
- Chilled Variations: Cool the shrimp down and serve over salad greens for a refreshing take.
How to Perfect Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce
To make the most out of your Grilled Shrimp Bowl, consider these helpful tips.
- Seasoning: Ensure to season the shrimp well before grilling. The spices will enhance their natural flavor.
- Perfectly Cooked Shrimp: Grill shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque. Overcooking makes them rubbery.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh herbs and ripe avocados to boost the flavor profile of your bowl.
- Adjust Heat Levels: Modify the cayenne pepper in the shrimp marinade according to your spice tolerance.
Best Side Dishes for Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce
Complementing your Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce can enhance its deliciousness. Here are some great side dish ideas.
- Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread pairs perfectly with seafood dishes.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their sweetness balances well with the savory elements of the bowl.
- Greek Salad: A fresh Greek salad adds a crunchy texture and vibrant colors to your meal.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a cooling crunch that contrasts nicely with the warm shrimp.
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn complements the corn salsa beautifully and is always a crowd-pleaser.
- Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad adds sweetness and freshness, making it a refreshing choice alongside the bowl.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing your Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce, it’s easy to make small errors that can affect the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:
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Skipping the marinade: Not marinating the shrimp can lead to bland flavor. Always let them sit in olive oil and spices for at least 15 minutes before grilling.
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Overcooking the shrimp: Cooking shrimp too long makes them tough and rubbery. Aim for just 2-3 minutes per side on medium heat until they turn pink.
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Ignoring ingredient quality: Using low-quality ingredients can diminish the dish’s taste. Choose fresh, high-quality shrimp and ripe avocados for the best results.
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Not adjusting seasoning: Failing to taste as you cook can result in a poorly seasoned dish. Always adjust salt and spice levels based on your preference.
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Neglecting presentation: A bowl that looks appealing enhances dining experience. Take time to layer ingredients neatly and garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Consume within 2 days for best flavor and safety.
Freezing Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce
- Freeze shrimp separately from salsa and sauce to preserve textures.
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags; label with date.
- Best used within 1 month for optimal quality.
Reheating Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place shrimp and salsa on a baking tray; heat for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish; heat in short intervals of 30 seconds until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a pan, stirring gently until heated evenly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about the Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce:
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, frozen shrimp work well. Just ensure they are thawed completely before marinating.
What if I don’t like spicy food?
You can skip the cayenne pepper in the recipe for a milder flavor profile.
How can I customize my Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce?
Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers according to your taste preferences.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! The components store well separately, making it ideal for meal prepping during the week.
Final Thoughts
The Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce is not just delicious but also versatile. You can tailor it to fit your tastes or dietary needs by adding more veggies or using different proteins. We encourage you to try this healthy bowl — it’s perfect for lunch or dinner!
Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Seafood
Description
Indulge in a vibrant Grilled Shrimp Bowl that combines succulent grilled shrimp, creamy garlic sauce, and a refreshing corn salsa, all topped with ripe avocado. This dish is perfect for any occasion, be it a quick lunch or a satisfying dinner. With its bold flavors and nutritious ingredients, it offers a delightful meal that’s both heart-smart and easy to prepare. In just 25 minutes, you can create a colorful bowl that your taste buds will love!
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup frozen corn (thawed)
- 1 avocado (sliced or mashed)
- ½ cup red onion (diced)
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 1 jalapeño (minced, optional)
- Fresh cilantro
- lime juice
- garlic powder
- paprika
- salt
- black pepper
Instructions
- Prep the Shrimp: In a bowl, mix shrimp with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if using). Toss well to coat.
- Make the Corn Salsa: Combine thawed corn, diced red onion, minced jalapeño (if using), cilantro, lime juice, and salt in another bowl. Mix gently.
- Grill the Shrimp: Preheat your grill or skillet over medium heat. Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are cooked through.
- Prepare the Creamy Sauce: Whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, chopped cilantro, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Assemble the Bowl: Divide corn salsa into serving bowls. Top with grilled shrimp and avocado slices. Drizzle with creamy garlic sauce and garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (~400g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 210mg
