This easy grilled shrimp bowl is a treat! Juicy shrimp are perfectly cooked and topped with fresh avocado and sweet corn salsa, making it colorful and tasty.
I love how quick it is to make; just grill some shrimp, mix the salsa, and you’re ready to eat! It’s perfect for lunch or dinner. Plus, who can resist that creamy avocado? 🥑
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are the star of this dish! If you can’t find fresh, frozen shrimp work well. Just thaw them properly before cooking. For a different flavor, you could use grilled chicken instead.
Corn: Fresh corn adds sweetness and crunch. If it’s not in season, canned or frozen corn is a good alternative. Just drain and rinse well. You can also swap in black beans for a different twist!
Avocado: Ripe avocado provides creaminess. If avocados are hard to find, try using guacamole for a similar taste. For a lighter option, mashed banana can work in a pinch but will change the overall flavor.
Greek Yogurt: Greek yogurt gives a nice tang in the sauce. For a lower-fat option, use light sour cream instead. If dairy is an issue, try a plant-based yogurt alternative!
How Do I Grill Shrimp Perfectly?
Grilling shrimp is quick and easy, but timing is key! Here’s how to do it right:
- Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high. This ensures those lovely grill marks.
- Toss shrimp with seasoning and oil evenly. This adds flavor and helps prevent sticking.
- Cook shrimp for just 2-3 minutes per side. Watch closely; they turn from translucent to opaque when done.
- Remove them from the grill as soon as they are cooked to avoid overcooking, which can make them rubbery.
Those simple steps will help you achieve perfectly cooked shrimp every time, making your bowl even more delicious!
Easy Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado and Corn Salsa
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Corn Salsa:
- 1 cup fresh or grilled corn kernels
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional)
- Juice of 1 lime
For the Avocado Base and Sauce:
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tsp lime juice (for sauce)
- 1 tsp chopped cilantro (for sauce)
- Salt and pepper, to taste (for sauce)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes total, including 15 minutes for prep and 15 minutes for cooking. You’ll quickly grill the shrimp, mix the salsa, and whip up the creamy sauce while everything cooks. Easy and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
Start by tossing the shrimp in a bowl with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all the shrimp are coated evenly. This adds great flavor to your shrimp!
2. Grill the Shrimp:
Heat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the shrimp on the grill. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn a nice char and are cooked through. Remove them from the heat and keep warm.
3. Make the Corn Salsa:
In a mixing bowl, combine corn, red onion, cherry tomatoes, cilantro, jalapeño (if using), lime juice, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together carefully and set aside. This salsa is fresh and vibrant!
4. Prepare the Avocado Base:
In a new bowl, mash the avocado with a pinch of salt until it’s smooth. This creamy layer will be the base of your shrimp bowl, spreading beautifully across the bottom of your serving bowls.
5. Make the Creamy Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt (or sour cream), mayonnaise, minced garlic, lime juice, chopped cilantro, salt, and pepper. Mix everything until smooth, and taste to adjust seasoning if needed. This adds a tangy hit to your dish!
6. Assemble the Bowl:
Take your serving bowls and layer them up! Start with the mashed avocado, followed by a generous spoonful of the corn salsa, and then top with the grilled shrimp. It’s getting colorful!
7. Drizzle Sauce:
Finally, take your creamy sauce and drizzle it all over the shrimp. This adds a delightful finish!
8. Serve Immediately:
Enjoy your vibrant and flavorful shrimp bowl while it’s fresh. Each bite will be packed with amazing flavors!
Whether it’s for lunch or dinner, this Easy Grilled Shrimp Bowl is sure to impress!
FAQ for Easy Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado and Corn Salsa
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thoroughly thaw the frozen shrimp before grilling. You can do this by placing them in the refrigerator overnight or by submerging them in a sealed bag in cold water for about 30 minutes.
How Do I Make This Recipe Spicy?
If you’re looking to add some heat, simply increase the amount of chili powder or add more jalapeño to the corn salsa. You can also drizzle hot sauce over the finished dish for an extra kick!
Can I Prepare the Salsa in Advance?
Yes, you can! The corn salsa can be made a few hours ahead of time. Just cover it and keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble your bowls. This actually allows the flavors to meld together even more!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The shrimp is best eaten fresh, but you can keep the components separate to maintain freshness. Reheat the shrimp gently to avoid overcooking.
