Save Ready to elevate your dinner routine with something bold, fresh, and fast? This Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce is a flavor-packed meal that brings together smoky grilled shrimp, creamy avocado mash, sweet and crunchy corn salsa, and a spicy-lime dressing you'll want to drizzle on everything. It's the perfect blend of healthy and indulgent: ideal for quick weeknight dinners, meal-prep lunches, or vibrant dinner ideas that feel like a mini fiesta in a bowl. If you're hunting for easy recipes, healthy food ideas, or quick meals packed with protein, this one's a guaranteed win.
I first made these bowls for a family movie night when we wanted something fun and different, but didn't want to spend hours in the kitchen. The grilled shrimp always get rave reviews at our table, and extra sauce disappears fast!
Ingredients
- Large shrimp: 1 lb, peeled and deveined
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp
- Smoked paprika: 1 tsp
- Cumin: 1/2 tsp
- Chili powder: 1/2 tsp
- Garlic powder: 1/4 tsp
- Lime juice: Juice of 1 lime
- Salt and pepper: to taste
- Fresh chopped cilantro (garnish): as needed
- Corn: 1 1/2 cups (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- Red bell pepper: 1/4 cup diced
- Green onions: 1/4 cup chopped
- Cilantro: 2 tbsp chopped
- Lime juice (salsa): 1 tbsp
- Salt (salsa): to taste
- Ripe avocados: 2
- Lime juice (avocado): Juice of 1/2 lime
- Salt and pepper (avocado): to taste
- Mayo or Greek yogurt: 1/2 cup
- Lime juice (sauce): 1 tbsp
- Hot sauce: 1 tsp (optional, to taste)
- Garlic powder (sauce): 1/2 tsp
- Smoked paprika (sauce): 1/2 tsp
- Cilantro (sauce): 1 tbsp chopped
- Salt (sauce): to taste
- Optional base: Cooked rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice
Instructions
- Marinate the Shrimp:
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, paprika, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Toss shrimp in the marinade and let sit for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Prepare the Corn Salsa:
- In another bowl, combine corn, bell pepper, green onions, cilantro, lime juice, and salt. Mix and chill.
- Mash the Avocado:
- Scoop avocado into a bowl, mash with lime juice, salt, and pepper until creamy but slightly chunky.
- Make the Sauce:
- 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.
- Grill the Shrimp:
- Heat a grill or grill pan over medium high. Cook shrimp 2 to 3 minutes per side until pink and lightly charred.
- Assemble the Bowl:
- Add rice or quinoa to the base of a bowl. Top with corn salsa, avocado mash, grilled shrimp, and drizzle with the creamy sauce. Garnish with fresh cilantro.
Save We love sharing these bowls with everyone gathered around the table, each person adding their favorite toppings and customizing their own bowl. It's a festive, relaxed way to bring the family together.
Variations & Swaps
Swap the shrimp for grilled chicken or tofu to make it vegetarian. Try black beans or pinto beans for extra protein, and use quinoa or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb base.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the bowl with a handful of fresh greens or a squeeze of extra lime juice on top. Add tortilla strips for crunch or a side of warm tortillas for a hearty meal.
Make Ahead Tips
Prep the salsa and creamy sauce in advance and keep refrigerated. Marinate the shrimp early for deeper flavor, and assemble bowls just before serving.
Save Bold, fresh flavors make this grilled shrimp bowl a dinner you’ll crave all week. Enjoy the vibrant taste and easy prep!
Kitchen Tips & Answers
- → Can I use frozen shrimp for this bowl?
Yes, frozen shrimp work well. Thaw them completely, pat dry, then marinate as directed for best texture and flavor.
- → What base pairs best for this bowl?
Cooked rice is classic, but quinoa or cauliflower rice add variety and work with the flavors. Use your favorite grain.
- → How spicy is the sauce?
Spice level depends on the amount of hot sauce used. Adjust to taste or omit hot sauce for a milder option.
- → Can the corn salsa be made ahead?
Absolutely. Prepare and chill the salsa up to one day ahead. This lets flavors deepen and saves prep time.
- → Is Greek yogurt a good substitute for mayo?
Greek yogurt adds tang and keeps the sauce light. It’s a great alternative to mayo for a healthier twist.
- → What garnishes work well with this bowl?
Fresh cilantro, lime wedges, chopped green onions, or extra salsa can be added for brightness and flavor.