This colorful grilled shrimp bowl is a real treat! Juicy shrimp are paired with creamy avocado and sweet corn salsa, making every bite feel like a summer hug.
Honestly, who can resist that mix of flavors? I love making this bowl when I want something light and refreshing. Plus, it’s super quick—perfect for busy days!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Using large shrimp is key for this dish as they grill up juicy and flavorful. If you can’t find fresh shrimp, frozen works well too; just make sure to thaw and drain them properly.
Olive Oil: A staple for marinating shrimp, adding a bit of richness. If you prefer, avocado oil has a similar flavor and a higher smoke point, making it great for grilling.
Corn: Fresh corn gives the best flavor, but frozen corn is a convenient alternative. If you’re in the mood for a twist, try using grilled corn for a smoky touch. Canned corn is also acceptable in a pinch—just rinse it well.
Avocados: Choose ripe avocados for creaminess. If they aren’t ripe yet, try to mash a bit of plain Greek yogurt for an alternative base that adds protein and creaminess.
How Do You Get Perfectly Grilled Shrimp?
Grilling shrimp is straightforward but requires a few techniques for the best results. Firstly, avoid overcooking, as shrimp gets rubbery when left too long on the grill. Here’s how to make sure they come out perfect:
- Ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat. This gives shrimp nice grill marks and helps them cook evenly.
- Cook shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side. Look for that pink color and opaque centers.
- A trick to keep them from falling through the grill grates is to use skewers. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before grilling.
Following these tips will ensure your grilled shrimp are tender and flavorful in each bite!
Easy Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado and Corn Salsa
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Corn Salsa:
- 1 cup fresh or frozen corn kernels
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, finely diced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely diced (optional)
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt, to taste
For the Avocado Base:
- 2 ripe avocados
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Creamy Dressing:
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 small garlic clove, minced
- 1 tsp lime juice
- 1 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious grilled shrimp bowl takes about 30 minutes from start to finish! You will spend around 15 minutes preparing the ingredients and marinating the shrimp, then another 15 minutes for grilling and assembling the bowl. It’s a quick and satisfying meal perfect for any day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
Start by placing the peeled and deveined shrimp in a mixing bowl. Add the olive oil, smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to the shrimp. Toss everything together until the shrimp are well-coated. Let them marinate for about 10-15 minutes to soak in all that delicious flavor.
2. Make the Corn Salsa:
If you’re using fresh corn, cook it in a pan or on the grill for just a few minutes until it’s lightly charred. For frozen corn, simply thaw it and drain any excess water. In a separate bowl, mix the corn, red onion, red bell pepper, cilantro, jalapeño (if you like some heat), lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Stir it up and set it aside for later.
3. Make the Avocado Base:
In another bowl, take the ripe avocados and mash them with the lime juice, adding salt and pepper to taste. Try to keep it slightly chunky for a nice texture. Set this bowl aside so it’s ready when you assemble your dish.
4. Prepare the Dressing:
In a small bowl, mix together the sour cream (or Greek yogurt), mayonnaise, minced garlic, lime juice, chopped cilantro, and a dash of salt and pepper. Stir until smooth, and set this aside too.
5. Grill the Shrimp:
Heat up your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated shrimp and grill them for about 2-3 minutes on each side. They should be nicely charred and opaque when done. Once finished, remove them from the grill.
6. Assemble the Bowl:
Take a serving bowl and start by spooning in the mashed avocado as the base. Add a generous scoop of your vibrant corn salsa right on top. Finally, place the beautifully grilled shrimp on top to create a delicious layered bowl.
7. Serve:
Drizzle your creamy dressing generously over the shrimp and serve immediately. Enjoy every bite of this fresh, flavorful bowl!
This easy grilled shrimp bowl is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a visual delight! Perfect for summer gatherings, weeknight dinners, or meal prepping for a week of deliciousness.
FAQ for Easy Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado and Corn Salsa
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen shrimp is a convenient option. Just make sure to thaw them completely before marinating. You can do this by placing them in the fridge overnight or using the quick method of submerging them in cold water in a sealed bag.
What Can I Substitute for Avocado If I Don’t Have Any?
If you’re out of avocados, you can use mashed white beans or hummus for a creamy base. Another option is to use Greek yogurt or even a simple spinach pesto for a different flavor profile while still adding creaminess to the bowl.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover shrimp, corn salsa, and avocado base separately in airtight containers in the fridge. The shrimp can last for up to 2 days, while the corn salsa will hold for about 3-4 days. However, it’s best to eat the avocado base fresh, as it can brown quickly. If you anticipate leftovers, consider saving the avocado to add fresh later.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Corn Salsa?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative with your corn salsa. Diced tomatoes, cucumbers, or even black beans make great additions. Just remember to adjust the seasoning accordingly, and enjoy the added flavor and texture!
