The sun was setting, casting a golden glow over my kitchen, and that’s when the craving for something light yet satisfying hit me. I grabbed some fresh shrimp and an assortment of colorful ingredients, determined to whip up an unforgettable Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for anyone looking to indulge in a healthy meal without sacrificing flavor. With just seven ingredients, it comes together in a blink, making it an ideal weeknight dinner that can impress even the most discerning palate. The combination of succulent shrimp, creamy avocado, and zesty corn salsa creates a vibrant dish that not only looks stunning but is also packed with nutrients. Are you ready to dive into a culinary adventure that will brighten your dinner table?
Why is This Shrimp Bowl Amazing?
Simplicity at its best, this Grilled Shrimp Bowl boasts just seven ingredients, making it an effortless choice for busy weeknights. Bursting with flavor, the combination of creamy avocado and zesty corn salsa creates a delightful balance in every bite. Healthy and gluten-free, it’s packed with protein to keep you energized. Versatile, try swapping shrimp for grilled chicken or tofu, or add jalapeños for a spicy kick! Time-saving preparation means you can enjoy a gourmet meal without hours in the kitchen. And best of all, it’s bound to impress your family and friends, turning any dinner into a festive occasion. If you’re looking for more tasty options, check out my Grilled Chicken Bowl or the flavorful Indonesian Chicken Sauce!
Grilled Shrimp Bowl Ingredients
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For the Bowl
• Large Shrimp – Fresh, peeled and deveined shrimp ensure maximum flavor for your grilled shrimp bowl.
• Avocado – Adds creaminess and healthy fats; optional substitutions include mango or jicama for a different texture.
• Corn Kernels – Use fresh or frozen for sweetness and crunch—grilling the corn can enhance its flavor.
• Red Onion – Offers a sharp taste; you may swap in green onions for a milder profile.
• Cherry Tomatoes – Their acidity brightens the dish; grape tomatoes are a fine alternative. -
For the Creamy Sauce
• Greek Yogurt – The base for the sauce, providing tanginess; for a lighter option, substitute with sour cream or dairy-free yogurt.
• Garlic – Fresh minced garlic is key for essential flavor and aroma. -
For Marinating
• Olive Oil – Adds richness and moisture; feel free to use avocado oil as a substitute if you prefer.
• Lime Juice – Gives a zesty kick for balance; fresh lime juice is preferred, but lemon juice can work as an alternative.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential seasonings that enhance the flavors of your grilled shrimp bowl. -
For Garnish (Optional)
• Fresh Cilantro – This herb brightens the dish and adds freshness; omit if cilantro isn’t your thing.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce
Step 1: Marinate Shrimp
In a medium bowl, combine the large, fresh shrimp with olive oil, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together to ensure the shrimp are well-coated in the marinade. Allow the shrimp to marinate for 10 minutes at room temperature, so they absorb all those zesty flavors, giving your Grilled Shrimp Bowl an unforgettable taste.
Step 2: Prepare Corn Salsa
While the shrimp marinate, take another bowl and mix together the corn kernels, diced red onion, halved cherry tomatoes, and diced avocado. Drizzle a bit of lime juice over the mixture and season with salt and pepper to elevate the flavors. Gently stir everything together, making sure not to mash the avocado, creating a fresh and vibrant corn salsa for your bowl.
Step 3: Make Creamy Garlic Sauce
In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt with minced garlic and a pinch of salt. Stir thoroughly to create a creamy sauce, adjusting the consistency with a little water if necessary. This creamy garlic sauce will add a delicious richness to your Grilled Shrimp Bowl, so ensure it’s smooth and well-mixed before moving on to grilling.
Step 4: Grill Shrimp
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Once hot, place the marinated shrimp on the grill, ensuring they are spread out evenly. Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Keep an eye on them as you grill, as overcooked shrimp can become tough, which you want to avoid for the best texture in your bowl.
Step 5: Assemble Bowl
With the shrimp grilled to perfection, it’s time to assemble your Grilled Shrimp Bowl. Start with a generous layer of the grilled shrimp as the base, then top it with the colorful corn salsa you prepared earlier. Drizzle the creamy garlic sauce generously over everything, letting it enhance the flavors of your bowl.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
For an added touch of freshness, sprinkle some chopped fresh cilantro over the top of your assembled shrimp bowl, if desired. This optional garnish beautifully complements the flavors. Serve your Grilled Shrimp Bowl immediately for a delightful, healthy meal that your family and friends will love, making dinner a vibrant occasion!
Make Ahead Options
These Incredible Grilled Shrimp Bowls with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the corn salsa and creamy garlic sauce up to 3 days in advance, storing them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. The salsa should be stirred right before serving to keep the avocado from browning. Although it’s best to grill the shrimp fresh for optimal texture, if you need to save time, you can marinate the shrimp up to 24 hours ahead—just be sure to keep the shrimp covered in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, simply grill the shrimp for a quick 6 minutes, assemble your bowls, and enjoy a delicious meal in no time!
Grilled Shrimp Bowl Variations
Feel free to make this delicious Grilled Shrimp Bowl your own by exploring some delightful variations!
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Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños to the corn salsa for a fiery kick that ignites your taste buds. This tiny change elevates the bowl with a bold flavor, perfect for those who crave heat.
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Protein Swap: Substitute shrimp with grilled chicken or tofu for a different protein option. Whichever you choose, make sure to marinate it well to keep every bite juicy and flavorful.
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Veggie Boost: Incorporate additional vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. These colorful additions not only enhance nutrition but also create a vibrant visual appeal that’s irresistible.
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Tropical Flair: Swap out avocado for mango or jicama to mix up the texture and flavor profile. Mango lends a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with the shrimp.
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Zesty Garlic Sauce: Try adding lemon zest along with the garlic in the creamy sauce for an extra burst of freshness. This hints at summer that complements the shrimp perfectly.
For a quick summer meal, consider pairing your bowl with some refreshing drinks or side options like tortilla chips or a light salad. You can also try it with a drizzle of Roasted Red Pepper sauce to spice things up.
Feel free to explore these ideas and find what tantalizes your taste buds!
Expert Tips for Grilled Shrimp Bowl
- Marinate Wisely: Ensure the shrimp marinate long enough—about 10 minutes—to absorb all the delicious flavors for the best grilled shrimp bowl experience.
- Perfect Grill Timing: Avoid overcooking shrimp by grilling them for only 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque, ensuring tender results.
- Sauce Consistency: Adjust the creamy garlic sauce’s texture with water as needed; it should be rich but pourable for the best drizzling over your bowl.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh garlic and lime juice for maximum flavor; their freshness elevates the entire dish, making it even more enjoyable.
- Customize Corn Salsa: Feel free to add veggies or spices to the corn salsa, like diced jalapeños, to customize the heat level of your grilled shrimp bowl.
What to Serve with Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce
Dive into a delightful pairing that will elevate your Grilled Shrimp Bowl into a memorable dining experience.
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Tortilla Chips: Their crunchy texture and saltiness create a perfect contrast, ideal for scooping up the corn salsa.
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Cilantro Lime Rice: Light and fluffy rice infused with zesty lime enhances the fresh flavors of the bowl while adding heartiness.
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Mixed Greens Salad: A simple salad with a citrus vinaigrette offers a refreshing crispness, balancing the richness of the creamy garlic sauce.
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Grilled Vegetables: Charred bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus add color and smoky flavors, complementing the shrimp beautifully.
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Margarita Cocktail: A refreshing margarita, with its citrusy notes, mirrors the zesty lime in your bowl, making it a fabulous drink pairing.
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Berry Sorbet: This light and fruity dessert cleanses the palate after the savory shrimp bowl, rounding out your meal with a sweet touch.
Let your Grilled Shrimp Bowl shine by serving it with these delicious accompaniments!
How to Store and Freeze Grilled Shrimp Bowl
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Fridge: Store any leftover Grilled Shrimp Bowl components separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days for optimal freshness.
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Freezer: The grilled shrimp can be frozen for up to 3 months. Place it in freezer-safe bags, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
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Reheating: Thaw shrimp in the fridge overnight, then warm gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave for about 30 seconds. Avoid overcooking during reheating to maintain texture.
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Corn Salsa: This can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days but is best enjoyed fresh. If freezing, use within a month; however, it may lose some texture upon thawing.
Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting shrimp, look for fresh or frozen large shrimp that are firm, translucent, and free from any off odors. If you notice dark spots or a strong fishy smell, it’s best to avoid those. Fresh shrimp should be slightly moist and have a mild, salty aroma, reminiscent of the ocean.
How should I store leftover Grilled Shrimp Bowl components?
Very simple! Store leftover grilled shrimp, corn salsa, and creamy garlic sauce in separate airtight containers in the fridge. The grilled shrimp lasts for up to 2 days. For the salsa, it can be enjoyed fresh, but if stored, it stays good for 2 more days. Just remember to keep them separated to maintain freshness!
Can I freeze the grilled shrimp for later use?
Indeed! To freeze the grilled shrimp, place them in freezer-safe bags, ensuring to squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing. This way, they can last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, just thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently to preserve their juicy texture.
What should I do if my shrimp turns out tough?
Very important to avoid this! If your shrimp is tough, it’s likely due to overcooking. Ideally, grill them for only 2-3 minutes on each side until they are pink and opaque. For future attempts, watch them closely as they cook since shrimp can turn quickly from juicy to rubbery if left on the grill too long.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes! The Grilled Shrimp Bowl is gluten-free and high in protein, making it a nutritious choice for those dietary needs. If you have shellfish allergies, you can swap shrimp with grilled chicken or tofu. For those who are dairy-sensitive, substituting Greek yogurt with a dairy-free version can still yield a rich creamy sauce. Always double-check ingredient labels to ensure they’re suitable for your dietary restrictions!
How do I prep the corn salsa in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the corn salsa a day ahead. Simply mix all the ingredients—corn, red onion, cherry tomatoes, avocado, and cilantro—in a bowl, drizzle with lime juice, and season with salt and pepper. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Just give it a gentle stir before serving to reintroduce those vibrant flavors!

Delicious Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium bowl, combine the shrimp with olive oil, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Let marinate for 10 minutes.
- In another bowl, mix corn, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and avocado. Add lime juice, salt, and pepper; stir gently.
- Combine Greek yogurt with minced garlic and salt in a small bowl and stir until smooth.
- Preheat grill to medium-high. Grill marinated shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque.
- Assemble the bowl starting with grilled shrimp, add corn salsa, and drizzle with creamy garlic sauce.
- Garnish with cilantro if desired and serve immediately.
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