There’s something magical about the first warm days of spring when the sun shines brightly, and outdoor cooking becomes an irresistible delight. It reminds me of the afternoons spent on my grandmother’s patio, where she would gather the family around to enjoy freshly grilled seafood, laughter, and vibrant flavors. This Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce embodies that joyous spirit. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of taste, color, and the love of togetherness.
Recipe Timing
- Prep Duration: 15 minutes
- Active Cooking: 6 minutes
- Total Duration: 21 minutes
- Portion Size: Serves 4
- Complexity: Simple
Nutritional Recipe
- Calories per portion: Approximately 350
- Protein: 30 grams
- Carbs: 18 grams
- Fats: 18 grams
- Fiber: 6 grams
- Sugars: 2 grams
- Sodium: 350 mg
Why You’ll Love This Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce
This dish is a fantastic way to bring the beach right to your kitchen table (or patio if you’re lucky!). Juicy, perfectly grilled shrimp sit atop a bed of vibrant, fresh ingredients like creamy avocado and sweet corn salsa, all harmonizing beautifully with the zesty creamy garlic sauce. It’s light yet filling, making it a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner or a summer gathering. The fresh cilantro sprinkled on top adds that final touch of brightness, boosting the dish’s appeal both in terms of flavor and presentation.
The Complete Cooking Journey
You can practically hear the sizzle of shrimp hitting the grill, filling your kitchen with irresistible aromas. The whole cooking process comes together so seamlessly, it feels like a culinary dance. Every step—from grilling the shrimp to crafting that creamy garlic sauce—enhances the next, transforming simple ingredients into a meal that feels like a special occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 avocados, diced
- 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Method
Step 1: Preheat the Grill
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat, setting the stage for the perfect smoky flavor on your shrimp.
Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp
In a bowl, mix the shrimp with olive oil, salt, and pepper to ensure each piece is evenly coated for optimal flavor.
Step 3: Grill the Shrimp
Place the shrimp on the grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until they are pink and cooked through. Keep an eye on them; shrimp cook quickly!
Step 4: Make the Corn Salsa
In another bowl, combine corn, diced red onion, halved cherry tomatoes, and diced avocado for a burst of nutrients and fresh flavors.
Step 5: Prepare the Creamy Garlic Sauce
For the sauce, mix mayonnaise, minced garlic, lime juice, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. This creamy delight is what takes your bowl to a whole new level.
Step 6: Assemble the Bowl
To assemble, place the grilled shrimp in a bowl, top with the vibrant corn salsa, and drizzle generously with the creamy garlic sauce.
Step 7: Garnish & Serve
Finish off by garnishing with fresh cilantro and serve immediately while everything is still warm and inviting.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
This dish shines brightly on its own, but you can elevate the experience with a side of tortilla chips and a fresh mango salsa or serve it alongside a refreshing cucumber salad. A chilled glass of white wine or a fruity iced tea makes for the perfect pairing.
Storage & Leftovers Guide
If you have leftovers (although they might be hard to resist!), store the shrimp, salsa, and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Consume within two days for the best quality. Reheat the shrimp gently on low heat to retain their tenderness.
Kitchen Wisdom & Success Tips
- Shrimp Selection: Look for shrimp that are firm and slightly moist but never slimy or dry.
- Grilling Tip: Let your shrimp marinate for 15-20 minutes in the olive oil, salt, and pepper before grilling for even more flavor.
- Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh corn rather than frozen really brightens up the salsa.
Flavor Variations & Adaptations
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the shrimp for a touch of heat.
- Creamy Alternatives: Swap out mayonnaise for Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangier sauce.
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute grilled zucchini or mushrooms for shrimp to enjoy a delightful vegetarian bowl.
Reader Questions & Solutions
- Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, just ensure to thaw them thoroughly under cold running water before marinating.
- What can I substitute for mayonnaise? Greek yogurt or sour cream works well for a lighter, tangy sauce.
- How do I know when the shrimp are done? They should turn pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking as they can become rubbery.
- Can I grill these on a stove-top? Absolutely, just use a grill pan and follow the same cooking times.
- What’s the best way to cut an avocado? Slice it in half, remove the pit, then scoop the flesh out with a spoon or slice it directly in the skin.
Wrapping Up
This Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa, and Creamy Garlic Sauce is not just a recipe; it’s an invitation to savor the beautiful season ahead while creating moments that matter. So fire up that grill or stovetop, gather your loved ones, and enjoy a dish that feels like a vacation on a plate. Happy cooking, and may each bite bring you closer to those you cherish!
Print
Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce
- Total Time: 21
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Seafood
Description
A vibrant and flavorful grilled shrimp bowl topped with avocado, corn salsa, and a creamy garlic sauce, perfect for spring gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 avocados, diced
- 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Mix the shrimp with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Place the shrimp on the grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and cooked through.
- Combine corn, diced red onion, halved cherry tomatoes, and diced avocado in another bowl.
- For the sauce, mix mayonnaise, minced garlic, lime juice, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl.
- Assemble by placing the grilled shrimp in a bowl, topping with the corn salsa, and drizzling with the creamy garlic sauce.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve immediately.
Notes
Store leftovers in airtight containers separately for best quality. Consume within two days.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 6
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
