Sunkissed flavors come alive when tender shrimp sizzle on the grill and mingle with a vibrant avocado corn salsa that bursts with color in every spoonful. This Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce is a playful dance of smoky, sweet, and tangy notes that will have your taste buds tapping their toes. The shrimp, kissed by a blend of smoked paprika and garlic powder, develop a subtle char that elevates their natural sweetness, while a drizzle of our velvety garlic sauce brings a cool, creamy contrast. As you fork through the layers of plump shrimp, crisp corn, juicy cherry tomatoes, and buttery avocado, each bite delivers a celebration of summer produce at its peak.
Beyond its show-stopping appearance, this bowl comes together in just over twenty minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknight dinners or laid-back weekend lunches. With a beginner-friendly difficulty level, you don’t need to be a grill master to pull this off—just simple techniques and fresh ingredients. The smoky shrimp pairs beautifully with the bright lime juice in the salsa, while the Greek yogurt–based sauce keeps things light without sacrificing creaminess. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply craving a satisfying, nutritious meal, this dish will shine on your table and leave everyone asking for seconds.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN GRILLED SHRIMP BOWL WITH AVOCADO CORN SALSA & CREAMY GARLIC SAUCE
Every component of this bowl plays a crucial role in crafting that harmonious balance of taste, texture, and color. From the succulent shrimp to the zesty salsa and silky sauce, these ingredients come together to create a layered experience that’s as fun to assemble as it is to devour.
- Large shrimp
Juicy and tender, shrimp serve as the star protein in this bowl. Their slightly sweet flavor provides the perfect canvas for smoky seasonings and brings a satisfying bite to every forkful.
- Olive oil
This liquid gold not only helps the shrimp achieve a gorgeous char on the grill but also acts as a medium to evenly distribute spices, ensuring each piece is richly flavored.
- Smoked paprika
With its warm, earthy heat and subtle smokiness, smoked paprika elevates the shrimp’s taste profile and gives them that beautiful reddish hue you’ll love.
- Garlic powder
A pantry staple that infuses the shrimp with savory depth, garlic powder enhances the overall umami and pairs seamlessly with the homemade garlic sauce.
- Salt and pepper
Simple but indispensable, this duo sharpens all the flavors, from the seasoned shrimp to the bright salsa and creamy sauce.
- Avocado
Silky and rich, diced avocado adds a buttery texture to the salsa, balancing the crispness of the corn and the acidity of the lime juice.
- Corn kernels
Whether fresh off the cob or from the freezer, sweet corn brings pops of natural sugar that contrast beautifully with the shrimp’s smoky spices.
- Cherry tomatoes
Juicy and vibrant, these little bursts of acidity lighten the salsa and introduce a playful color contrast.
- Red onion
Finely chopped, red onion contributes a mild bite and a hint of sweetness, rounding out the salsa’s flavor profile.
- Fresh cilantro
Chopped cilantro introduces bright, citrusy notes that lift both the salsa and the bowl’s overall freshness.
- Lime juice
Tangy and fragrant, lime juice ties everything together, adding that essential zesty kick to the salsa.
- Greek yogurt
Thick and tangy, Greek yogurt forms the creamy base of the garlic sauce, keeping it light yet luxuriously smooth.
- Mayonnaise
A touch of mayo enriches the sauce’s texture, ensuring it clings perfectly to the shrimp without overpowering the yogurt’s tang.
- Garlic cloves
Freshly minced garlic provides an aromatic punch in the sauce, amplifying every savory, creamy bite.
- Fresh lemon juice
Bright and acidic, lemon juice rounds out the sauce’s flavor, giving it a lively finish that pairs beautifully with the seasoned shrimp.
HOW TO MAKE GRILLED SHRIMP BOWL WITH AVOCADO CORN SALSA & CREAMY GARLIC SAUCE
Bringing this lively bowl to life involves simple, straightforward steps that pack maximum flavor into minimal time. With straightforward prep and a hot grill, you’ll be savoring a restaurant-quality dish without the fuss.
1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
Ensuring the grill is hot before you start helps the shrimp develop a nice sear and prevents sticking. Aim for a surface temperature around 375–400°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine the shrimp with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss until the shrimp are well coated.
Evenly coating the shrimp helps each piece cook uniformly and absorb all those smoky, garlicky flavors.
3. Thread the shrimp onto skewers. Grill the shrimp for 2–3 minutes on each side until they are pink and opaque. Remove from the grill and set aside.
Using skewers makes flipping a breeze and ensures you don’t overcook any tender morsels.
4. To make the Avocado Corn Salsa, combine diced avocados, corn, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro in a large bowl. Add lime juice, salt, and pepper. Gently stir to mix; refrigerate until needed.
Mixing gently preserves the avocado’s shape and prevents the salsa from becoming mushy.
5. For the Creamy Garlic Sauce, mix Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, minced garlic, and lemon juice in a small bowl. Add salt and pepper; adjust seasoning to taste.
Taste as you go to achieve the perfect balance of tanginess, creaminess, and garlicky punch.
6. To assemble the bowls, start with a generous serving of the Avocado Corn Salsa in each bowl, add grilled shrimp on top, and drizzle with Creamy Garlic Sauce.
Layering components ensures every forkful delivers a taste of each element in harmony.
7. Serve immediately for a fresh and vibrant meal experience.
Enjoy the contrast of warm, smoky shrimp against the cool salsa and creamy sauce before the ingredients lose their brightness.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR GRILLED SHRIMP BOWL WITH AVOCADO CORN SALSA & CREAMY GARLIC SAUCE
When it comes to presenting this bowl, a few thoughtful touches can elevate the experience even further. By pairing the dish with complementary sides and garnishes, you’ll transform a simple meal into a memorable dining moment that your guests or family will rave about.
- Add a bed of cilantro-lime rice to each bowl for a fragrant, fluffy foundation. The rice soaks up extra sauce and salsa juices, making every bite even more satisfying.
- Serve alongside a stack of crispy tortilla chips for dipping and scooping. Their crunch contrasts beautifully with the tender shrimp and creamy elements.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of crumbled queso fresco or feta cheese. The salty, crumbly cheese introduces an unexpected layer of richness that balances the bright salsa.
- Pair with a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Rosé to complement the dish’s citrusy and smoky notes. The light acidity in the wine enhances the flavors without overpowering them.
HOW TO STORE GRILLED SHRIMP BOWL WITH AVOCADO CORN SALSA & CREAMY GARLIC SAUCE
Storing this dish properly ensures you can enjoy its vibrant textures and flavors even on a busy day. Separating elements and using the right containers will keep each component tasting as fresh as when you first made it.
- Refrigerate components separately: Transfer grilled shrimp, avocado corn salsa, and garlic sauce into airtight containers. Keeping them apart prevents the avocado from browning too quickly and preserves the shrimp’s texture.
- Use airtight jars for sauce: Spoon the creamy garlic sauce into a small mason jar or sealed container. This reduces air exposure and maintains its silky consistency for up to 3 days.
- Cool before sealing: Allow all elements to reach room temperature before refrigerating. Trapping heat in any container can lead to moisture buildup and sogginess.
- Consume within 2–3 days: For optimal flavor and safety, enjoy leftovers within 48–72 hours. Gently reheat shrimp on the stovetop or eat cold, then remix salsa before serving.
CONCLUSION
Bringing this Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce to your table is like inviting summer indoors—vibrant colors, bold flavors, and effortless appeal all come together in one dish. By grilling a pound of plump shrimp rubbed with smoky paprika and garlic, tossing together a lively avocado corn salsa, and whisking up a tangy garlic sauce, you’ve created a meal that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious. Whether you’re feeding a crowd at a backyard BBQ or simply treating yourself to a nourishing lunch, this bowl delivers on every front: ease of preparation, nutritional balance, and culinary flair. Don’t forget that you can easily swap in grilled chicken or tofu, or switch Greek yogurt for sour cream to suit your cravings and pantry staples.
Feel free to print this article and save it for later reference—your future self will thank you on those busy nights when you want something quick but special. You can also find a FAQ below to troubleshoot any questions you might have. If you give this recipe a try, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Share your comments, questions, or feedback so we can keep the conversation going and make your next grilled shrimp bowl even better. Enjoy every bite and happy cooking!
Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce
Description
Experience a burst of freshness with tender grilled shrimp atop a zesty avocado corn salsa, finished with a creamy garlic sauce. Perfect for summer meals!
Ingredients
Instructions
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Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
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In a large bowl, combine the shrimp with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss until the shrimp are well coated.
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Thread the shrimp onto skewers. Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are pink and opaque. Remove from the grill and set aside.
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To make the Avocado Corn Salsa, combine diced avocados, corn, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro in a large bowl. Add lime juice, salt, and pepper. Gently stir to mix; refrigerate until needed.
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For the Creamy Garlic Sauce, mix Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, minced garlic, and lemon juice in a small bowl. Add salt and pepper; adjust seasoning to taste.
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To assemble the bowls, start with a generous serving of the Avocado Corn Salsa in each bowl, add grilled shrimp on top, and drizzle with Creamy Garlic Sauce.
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Serve immediately for a fresh and vibrant meal experience.
Note
- You can substitute Greek yogurt with sour cream in the sauce for a different flavor profile.
- For a spicier kick, add some chopped jalapeno to the Avocado Corn Salsa.
- Grilled shrimp can be replaced with grilled chicken or tofu for a different protein option.
- If using wood skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
- This dish is perfect for a summer BBQ or as a satisfying lunch or dinner option.
