Introduction to Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado Corn Salsa Creamy Sauce
Hey there, fellow food lovers! If you’re like me, juggling a busy schedule while trying to whip up something delicious, then this Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado Corn Salsa Creamy Sauce is just what you need. It’s a colorful dish that’s perfect for a quick dinner after a long day. The vibrant flavors and creamy textures come together to create a meal that’s not only delicious but also visually stunning. Trust me, this bowl will impress your loved ones while being a breeze to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy moms and professionals alike!
Why You’ll Love This Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado Corn Salsa Creamy Sauce
This Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado Corn Salsa Creamy Sauce is truly a game-changer in my kitchen. It’s quick to whip up, taking just about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. The fresh ingredients burst with flavor, making each bite delightful. Plus, it’s versatile! You can customize it to fit your family’s preferences. Trust me, the taste will wow your family, while the prep will fit snugly into your busy life!
Ingredients for Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado Corn Salsa Creamy Sauce
Let’s gather the colorful ingredients that will make this Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado Corn Salsa Creamy Sauce a hit in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Shrimp: Large shrimp, peeled and deveined, are perfect for grilling and soaking up all those amazing flavors.
- Olive Oil: A must for marinating the shrimp. It adds moisture and a rich, smooth texture.
- Smoked Paprika: This spice provides a smoky depth that elevates the dish to new heights.
- Cumin: A pinch of earthiness that complements the shrimp beautifully.
- Chili Powder: Adds just the right amount of heat to get your taste buds dancing.
- Garlic Powder: For that aromatic kick; it’s a flavor booster that’s hard to resist.
- Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brightens everything up, making each bite refreshing.
- Salt and Pepper: Simple but essential seasonings to enhance flavors.
- Cilantro: Fresh chopped cilantro adds a burst of color and a delightful flavor.
- Corn: You can use fresh, frozen, or canned corn. It adds sweetness and crunch to the bowl.
- Red Bell Pepper: Diced, for a sweet crunch and vibrant color.
- Green Onions: A sprinkle of chopped green onions adds a nice freshness.
- Avocados: Ripe avocados provide a creamy texture that’s simply luxurious.
- Mayo or Greek Yogurt: This is the base for your creamy sauce. Use your favorite for flavor or health benefits.
- Hot Sauce (optional): Perfect for those who crave a bit more heat in their creamy sauce.
- Rice or Quinoa: Use these as a base for your bowl. Cauliflower rice works for a lighter option.
The exact quantities of these ingredients are found at the bottom of the article, available for printing. Feel free to mix and match based on what you have on hand or what your family loves!
How to Make Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado Corn Salsa Creamy Sauce
Ready to dive into this deliciousness? Let’s get cooking! Making this Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado Corn Salsa Creamy Sauce is easier than you think. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll be savoring a flavorful meal in under an hour!
Prepare the Marinade
Start by making the shrimp marinade. In a bowl, combine olive oil, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, lime juice, salt, and pepper. It should smell heavenly! This marinade is the secret to flavorful shrimp.
Marinate the Shrimp
Next, toss the shrimp into the marinade. Mix them well, ensuring every shrimp is coated. Let them sit for 15–20 minutes. This allows the flavors to soak in. It’s like a mini-vacation for your shrimp!
Make the Corn Salsa
While the shrimp is marinating, let’s whip up that vibrant corn salsa. In another bowl, combine corn, diced red bell pepper, chopped green onions, cilantro, lime juice, and salt. Give it a good mix and chill it in the fridge. The cooler, the better—the flavors will meld together beautifully.
Prepare the Avocado Mash
Now, let’s make that creamy avocado mash. Scoop the ripe avocados into a bowl. Mash them up with lime juice, salt, and pepper until it’s creamy yet slightly chunky. The avocado adds a smooth richness that perfectly balances the spicy shrimp.
Whisk the Creamy Sauce
For the creamy sauce, whisk together mayo (or Greek yogurt), lime juice, hot sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cilantro, and salt in a separate bowl. If it’s too thick, add a splash of water to achieve your desired consistency. This creamy sauce is a game-changer, folks!
Grill the Shrimp
Heat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the marinated shrimp on the grill. Cook them for 2–3 minutes on each side until they’re pink and slightly charred. They’ll cook fast, so keep an eye on them. The aroma will make your mouth water!
Assemble the Bowl
Finally, it’s assembly time! Start with a base of cooked rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice. Top it off with a generous helping of corn salsa, the creamy avocado mash, and of course, the grilled shrimp. Drizzle your creamy sauce on top and garnish with fresh cilantro. Voilà! You have a stunning Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado Corn Salsa Creamy Sauce ready to impress!
Tips for Success
- Make sure your shrimp are fresh for the best flavor.
- Don’t skip marinating; it makes a world of difference!
- Feel free to customize your veggies in the corn salsa.
- Use ripe avocados for the best creamy texture.
- Try preparing the salsa and sauce ahead of time to save even more time!
- If you love heat, experiment with different hot sauces.
Equipment Needed
- Grill or Grill Pan: Essential for cooking the shrimp; a stovetop grill pan works well if you don’t have an outdoor grill.
- Mixing Bowls: For marinating and mixing ingredients; use any bowls you have on hand.
- Whisk: Perfect for blending sauces; a fork can also do the trick.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Handy for precise ingredient amounts, though you can eyeball it too!
- Spatula or Tongs: To flip the shrimp easily on the grill.
Variations
- Spice it Up: For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños to the corn salsa or increase the hot sauce in the creamy sauce.
- Swap the Proteins: Try using chicken, tofu, or even fish if shrimp doesn’t suit your taste. Each option will bring a unique flavor!
- Fresh Herbs: Mix in fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a different twist. They add freshness and an exciting flavor profile.
- Veggie Boost: Add black beans, diced zucchini, or cherry tomatoes to the corn salsa for more texture and nutrients.
- Dairy-Free Option: Substitute Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt or a coconut cream for a dairy-free creamy sauce.
- Grain Options: Instead of rice or quinoa, try farro or barley for a nutty flavor and extra chewiness in your bowl.
Serving Suggestions for Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado Corn Salsa Creamy Sauce
- Serve with lime wedges for an extra citrusy zing.
- Pair with a refreshing cucumber and tomato salad to balance the meal.
- A chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water complements the dish beautifully.
- For presentation, use colorful bowls to showcase the vibrant ingredients.
- Sprinkle extra cilantro on top for that finishing touch of freshness.
FAQs about Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado Corn Salsa Creamy Sauce
As you get ready to create your own Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado Corn Salsa Creamy Sauce, you might have a few questions. Don’t worry; I’ve got you covered!
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just swap regular mayo with gluten-free mayo or Greek yogurt, and you’re good to go. Enjoy without any worries!
How do I store leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store the individual components in airtight containers in the fridge. The shrimp is best eaten fresh, but you can enjoy the salsa and creamy sauce for 2–3 days.
Can I use different proteins?
Yes! Feel free to substitute shrimp with chicken, tofu, or even grilled fish. Each will lend its own unique flavor while keeping this dish delicious!
What can I use instead of lime juice?
If you don’t have lime juice, lemon juice works well as an alternative. It’ll add a similar tangy brightness to the dish!
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! You can prepare the corn salsa and creamy sauce in advance. Just grill the shrimp on the day you plan to serve it for the best flavor.
Final Thoughts
Creating this Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado Corn Salsa Creamy Sauce is like adding a splash of sunshine to your everyday meals. It’s not just a dish; it’s an experience that brings joy to the table. The blend of vibrant flavors, creamy textures, and colorful ingredients can turn any ordinary day into a celebration. Plus, the simplicity of the recipe allows even the busiest of us to indulge in something extraordinary. I hope this becomes a staple in your home, much like it has in mine, providing delightful moments and satisfied smiles around your dinner table!
Print
Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado Corn Salsa Creamy Sauce
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Fusion
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delicious and colorful Grilled Shrimp Bowl featuring Avocado Corn Salsa and a creamy sauce, perfect for a flavorful meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh chopped cilantro (for garnish)
- 1 1/2 cups corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 2 tbsp chopped cilantro
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- Salt to taste
- 2 ripe avocados
- Juice of 1/2 lime
- 1/2 cup mayo or Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tsp hot sauce (optional)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp chopped cilantro
- Salt to taste
- Cooked rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice (optional base)
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, paprika, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, lime juice, salt, and pepper to create a marinade for the shrimp.
- Toss the shrimp in the marinade and let sit for 15–20 minutes.
- In another bowl, combine corn, bell pepper, green onions, cilantro, lime juice, and salt to prepare the corn salsa. Mix and chill.
- Scoop avocado into a bowl and mash with lime juice, salt, and pepper until creamy but slightly chunky.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together mayo (or yogurt), lime juice, hot sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cilantro, and salt. Adjust thickness with a splash of water if needed.
- Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat and cook the shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and lightly charred.
- Assemble the bowl by adding rice or quinoa as the base. Top with corn salsa, avocado mash, grilled shrimp, and drizzle with creamy sauce. Garnish with fresh cilantro.
Notes
- Adjust seasonings according to personal taste preferences.
- This recipe can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free mayo or yogurt.
- For additional heat, increase the amount of hot sauce in the creamy sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Delicious! Put it over riced cauliflower. Great summer dish. Thank you 😊