Pin It 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 tried combining grilled shrimp with corn salsa and avocado mash during a busy weeknight when I craved something satisfying but easy. This bowl quickly became a go-to for its cheerful colors and bold flavors.
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: For garnish
- Corn: 1 1/2 cups (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- Red bell pepper: 1/4 cup, diced
- Green onions: 1/4 cup, chopped
- Cilantro (salsa): 2 tbsp, chopped
- Lime juice (salsa): 1 tbsp
- Salt (salsa): To taste
- Avocados: 2 ripe
- 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
- Base: Cooked rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice (optional)
Instructions
- Marinate the Shrimp:
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, smoked 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, diced red bell pepper, green onions, chopped 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 Greek yogurt, lime juice, hot sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika, chopped cilantro, and salt. Add a splash of water for desired thickness 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, quinoa, or cauliflower rice to a bowl. Top with corn salsa, avocado mash, grilled shrimp, and drizzle with creamy sauce. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro.
Pin It
My kids love customizing their bowls with extra salsa or a spoonful of sauce. The flavors make everyone stop and savor together!
Make It Your Own
Swap in grilled chicken or tofu for the shrimp to suit your protein preferences. Try adding black beans for extra fiber.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with tortilla chips, fresh greens, or extra lime wedges for topping. This bowl works great for parties and casual gatherings.
Storing & Leftovers
Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the creamy sauce and salsa separate for best taste and texture.
Pin It
This shrimp bowl makes dinner exciting with every bite and is perfect for healthy meal variety. Enjoy it in any season for fresh, colorful flavor!
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How do I prevent shrimp from overcooking?
Grill the shrimp just 2–3 minutes per side until they turn pink and lightly charred to keep them tender.
- → Can I use frozen corn for the salsa?
Yes, you can use fresh, frozen, or canned corn. Thaw and drain frozen corn before adding to the salsa.
- → What's a good base for this bowl?
Rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice all work well for a hearty and customizable foundation.
- → Can I substitute Greek yogurt for mayo in the sauce?
Absolutely! Greek yogurt adds a lighter, tangier touch to the creamy sauce.
- → How do I make the dish spicier?
Add extra chili powder to the shrimp marinade or use a spicier hot sauce in the creamy sauce.
- → What garnishes work best?
Fresh chopped cilantro and squeezes of lime add brightness and color to the final bowl.