Introduction to Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce
As a busy mom, I know how challenging it can be to whip up a meal that’s both delicious and healthy. That’s why I’m excited to share my Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce. This dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a quick solution for those hectic weeknights. Imagine succulent shrimp, creamy avocado, and zesty corn salsa all coming together in one bowl. It’s perfect for impressing your loved ones or simply treating yourself after a long day. Let’s dive into this flavorful delight!
Why You’ll Love This Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce
This Grilled Shrimp Bowl is a game-changer for busy days. It’s quick to prepare, taking just 25 minutes from start to finish. The vibrant flavors of the creamy garlic sauce and fresh corn salsa will dance on your taste buds, making every bite a delight. Plus, it’s healthy and gluten-free, so you can feel good about serving it to your family. What’s not to love?
Ingredients for Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this Grilled Shrimp Bowl a success. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Shrimp: Fresh or frozen, peeled and deveined shrimp are the stars of this dish. They cook quickly and soak up flavors beautifully.
- Avocados: Creamy and rich, avocados add a luscious texture. Choose ripe ones for the best flavor.
- Corn: Fresh corn is ideal, but frozen works just as well. It adds sweetness and crunch to the salsa.
- Cherry Tomatoes: These little gems burst with flavor. Halving them allows their juices to mingle with the other ingredients.
- Red Onion: A bit of diced red onion adds a sharp bite. You can substitute with green onions for a milder taste.
- Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brings a bright, herbaceous note. If you’re not a fan, parsley can be a good alternative.
- Olive Oil: This helps to marinate the shrimp and adds a touch of richness. Extra virgin olive oil is my go-to for flavor.
- Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brightens the dish and balances the flavors. Bottled juice can work in a pinch, but fresh is best.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning, these simple ingredients enhance all the flavors in the bowl.
- Sour Cream: This is the base for the creamy garlic sauce. You can swap it for Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
- Garlic: Minced garlic adds depth and a punch of flavor to the sauce. Fresh is always better than powdered.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find a printable version of the recipe. Happy cooking!
How to Make Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce
Step 1: Preheat the Grill
Preheating the grill is crucial for achieving that perfect sear on your shrimp. It ensures even cooking and helps lock in those delicious flavors. Aim for medium-high heat, around 400°F. A hot grill will give your shrimp a beautiful char while keeping them juicy inside. Trust me, this step is worth it!
Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp
In a mixing bowl, combine your peeled and deveined shrimp with olive oil, lime juice, salt, and pepper. This marinade not only adds flavor but also helps tenderize the shrimp. Let them sit for about 10 minutes. This short marinating time allows the shrimp to soak up the zesty goodness. If you have a bit more time, feel free to let them marinate longer for an even deeper flavor.
Step 3: Grill the Shrimp
Once your grill is hot, place the shrimp on the grates. Grill them for about 2-3 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re done when they turn pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking, as shrimp can become rubbery. Keep an eye on them; they cook quickly! Once done, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a minute.
Step 4: Make the Corn Salsa
While the shrimp are grilling, it’s time to whip up the corn salsa. In a separate bowl, mix together the corn, halved cherry tomatoes, diced red onion, and chopped cilantro. For the freshest taste, use sweet corn and ripe tomatoes. If you like a bit of heat, consider adding diced jalapeños. This salsa is vibrant and adds a refreshing crunch to your bowl!
Step 5: Prepare the Creamy Garlic Sauce
In a small bowl, combine sour cream and minced garlic. Stir until well mixed. For a twist, you can add a splash of lime juice or a pinch of cayenne pepper for some heat. This creamy garlic sauce is the perfect complement to the grilled shrimp and corn salsa, adding richness and flavor to every bite.
Step 6: Assemble the Bowl
Now comes the fun part—assembling your Grilled Shrimp Bowl! Start with a base of rice or greens, then layer on the grilled shrimp, diced avocado, and corn salsa. Drizzle the creamy garlic sauce generously over the top. For a pop of color, sprinkle some extra cilantro. Serve immediately and enjoy the explosion of flavors!
Tips for Success
- Always preheat your grill for the best sear on the shrimp.
- Use fresh ingredients for maximum flavor, especially the lime juice and herbs.
- Don’t overcrowd the grill; give shrimp space to cook evenly.
- Let the shrimp rest for a minute after grilling to keep them juicy.
- Feel free to customize the salsa with your favorite veggies!
Equipment Needed
- Grill: A gas or charcoal grill works well. If you don’t have one, a grill pan on the stovetop is a great alternative.
- Mixing Bowls: Use medium-sized bowls for marinating shrimp and mixing salsa.
- Spatula or Tongs: Essential for flipping shrimp on the grill.
- Knife and Cutting Board: For chopping veggies and avocados.
Variations
- Spicy Shrimp: Add a teaspoon of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the marinade for a kick.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute shrimp with grilled zucchini or portobello mushrooms for a hearty, meat-free bowl.
- Quinoa Base: Swap rice for quinoa to boost protein and add a nutty flavor.
- Fruit Salsa: Mix in diced mango or pineapple with the corn salsa for a sweet twist.
- Low-Fat Sauce: Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter creamy garlic sauce.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair your Grilled Shrimp Bowl with a refreshing cucumber salad for a light side.
- A chilled glass of white wine or a zesty margarita complements the flavors beautifully.
- For presentation, serve in colorful bowls and garnish with lime wedges and extra cilantro.
- Consider adding tortilla chips on the side for a delightful crunch.
FAQs about Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen shrimp work perfectly in this Grilled Shrimp Bowl. Just make sure to thaw them completely before marinating. This way, they’ll soak up all the delicious flavors!
How can I make this dish spicier?
If you’re looking for a kick, add diced jalapeños to the corn salsa or sprinkle some cayenne pepper into the shrimp marinade. You can also serve with hot sauce on the side for those who love heat!
Can I prepare the corn salsa ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the corn salsa a few hours in advance. Just store it in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble your bowl. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully!
What can I substitute for sour cream in the creamy garlic sauce?
If you prefer a lighter option, Greek yogurt is a fantastic substitute for sour cream. It adds creaminess while keeping the dish healthy. You won’t miss a beat!
Is this Grilled Shrimp Bowl gluten-free?
Yes, this dish is naturally gluten-free! Just ensure that any additional ingredients or sauces you use are also gluten-free. Enjoy this flavorful bowl without worry!
Final Thoughts
Creating this Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce is more than just cooking; it’s about bringing joy to your table. The vibrant colors and fresh flavors make it a feast for the senses. Each bite is a reminder that healthy meals can be quick and satisfying. Whether you’re sharing it with family or enjoying a quiet moment alone, this dish brings a sense of accomplishment and happiness. So, roll up your sleeves, fire up that grill, and let this delightful bowl become a staple in your kitchen. You deserve it!
Print
Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado: A Flavorful Delight!
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delicious and healthy grilled shrimp bowl topped with fresh avocado, corn salsa, and a creamy garlic sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 avocados, diced
- 1 cup corn, fresh or frozen
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- In a bowl, combine shrimp with olive oil, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
- Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are pink and opaque.
- In another bowl, mix corn, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro to make the corn salsa.
- In a small bowl, combine sour cream and minced garlic to create the creamy garlic sauce.
- Assemble the bowl by placing grilled shrimp, diced avocado, and corn salsa on a bed of rice or greens.
- Drizzle with creamy garlic sauce and serve immediately.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños to the corn salsa.
- This dish can be served warm or cold.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 200mg
Keywords: Grilled Shrimp Bowl, Avocado, Corn Salsa, Creamy Garlic Sauce