Are you looking for a delightful and satisfying dish that combines fresh flavors and healthy ingredients? How about indulging in a Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce? This vibrant meal not only bursts with flavor but also packs a nutritional punch. In just a short time, you can prepare a dish that’s not only aesthetically pleasing but also good for your body. Let’s dive into the details and uncover why this bowl is a must-try for seafood lovers and health enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients Needed
To create your Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce, you’ll need the following fresh ingredients:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Provides a protein-rich base that is low in calories and high in essential nutrients like iodine and selenium.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Adds healthy fats that enhance flavor and provide heart-health benefits.
- 1 tsp smoked paprika: Brings a warm, smoky, and slightly sweet flavor to the shrimp.
- 1/2 tsp cumin: Offers earthy notes that enhance the flavor profile of the dish.
- 1/2 tsp chili powder: Gives a kick of heat while adding depth to the taste.
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder: Lends a subtle garlic flavor without overpowering the dish.
- Juice of 1 lime: Adds brightness and acidity, balancing the bowl’s flavors.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for enhancing the natural flavors of each ingredient.
- Fresh chopped cilantro (for garnish): Adds a burst of freshness and a gorgeous finishing touch.
- 1 1/2 cups corn (fresh, frozen, or canned): Sweet and crunchy, this element complements the shrimp nicely.
- 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper: Offers sweetness and a pop of color.
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions: Provides mild onion flavor and texture.
- 2 tbsp chopped cilantro: For a fresh herbal boost in the salsa.
- 1 tbsp lime juice: Enhances the flavors of the corn salsa.
- Salt, to taste: To adjust the seasoning.
- 2 ripe avocados: Creamy and nutrient-dense, these serve as a rich component of the bowl.
- Juice of 1/2 lime: Keeps the avocado fresh and adds acidity.
- 1/2 cup mayo or Greek yogurt: Forms the base for the creamy sauce, adding richness.
- 1 tbsp lime juice: Brightens up the sauce.
- 1 tsp hot sauce (optional, to taste): For those who enjoy an extra kick.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Adds another layer of flavor.
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika: Echoes the shrimp flavor in the sauce.
- 1 tbsp chopped cilantro: Ties together all flavors in the sauce.
- Salt, to taste: To enhance the sauce.
- Cooked rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice: Serves as the base of your bowl, adding texture and health benefits.
Timing
Preparation and cooking can be completed in 30 minutes—which is 20% less time than many complex seafood recipes. Here’s a breakdown:
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 15 minutes
- Total time: 30 minutes
How to Make Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce
Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp
In a bowl, mix olive oil, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and the juice of 1 lime. Toss the shrimp in the marinade, ensuring they’re well coated, and let sit for 15–20 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Corn Salsa
While the shrimp marinates, combine corn, diced red bell pepper, green onions, cilantro, and lime juice in another bowl. Season with salt to taste, mix well, and then chill it in the refrigerator.
Step 3: Mash the Avocado
Scoop out the flesh of the ripe avocados into a bowl. Mash with lime juice, salt, and pepper until creamy but slightly chunky. This will add a delightful texture to your bowl.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
In a separate bowl, whisk together mayo (or Greek yogurt), lime juice, hot sauce, and the rest of the garlic powder, smoked paprika, and cilantro. Adjust the consistency with a splash of water if necessary, ensuring it’s pourable.
Step 5: Grill the Shrimp
Heat your grill or a grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until they turn pink and have charred marks. Be careful not to overcook!
Step 6: Assemble the Bowl
In a serving bowl, add a base of rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice. Top with the corn salsa, avocado mash, and grilled shrimp. Drizzle generously with the creamy sauce and garnish with fresh cilantro.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of this Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce provides:
- Calories: Approximately 450
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 25g
- Fiber: 10g
This recipe promotes a balance of macronutrients, making it a healthy choice for various diets.
Healthier Alternatives For Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce
If you’re aiming for a lighter version, consider these swaps:
- Replace mayo with avocado yogurt for a dairy-free creamy sauce.
- Use zucchini noodles instead of rice to cut down on carbs.
- Substitute shrimp with extra-firm tofu for a plant-based protein option.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Grilled Shrimp Bowl with:
- A side of tortilla chips and salsa,
- Spicy black bean tacos for a delightful feast,
- A refreshing margarita or sparkling water with lime to compliment the spices.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
- Over-Marinating Shrimp: Don’t leave shrimp in the marinade for too long; 20 minutes is sufficient.
- Crowding the Grill: Ensure shrimp have space on the grill to cook evenly.
- Under-seasoning: Adjust the seasoning; shrimp can absorb flavors quickly.
Storing Tips For Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce
- Leftovers can be stored in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Store the avocado separately to prevent browning.
- For meal prep, keep components separate until ready to serve, preserving freshness.
Conclusion
The Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce is a vibrant, nutritious, and delicious option that caters to both seafood lovers and health-conscious eaters. Whether for a casual family dinner or a sophisticated meal prep, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. Try it today, and share your experience with us! We can’t wait to hear how it turned out.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Opt for grilled tofu or tempeh in place of shrimp. You can adjust seasonings to suit your taste.
Can I prep this dish in advance?
Certainly! Marinate the shrimp and prepare the salsa a day ahead. Assemble right before serving for the freshest taste.
What’s a good substitute for lime juice?
You can use lemon juice if lime isn’t available, although the flavor will be slightly different.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! The components can be prepared ahead of time and stored separately for easy assembly during the week.
How can I adjust the spice level?
Simply increase or decrease the amount of chili powder and hot sauce according to your heat preference.
Explore more delicious recipes and tips on making healthy eating enjoyable!
Print
Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
A vibrant dish combining fresh shrimp, avocado, sweet corn salsa, and a creamy sauce, perfect for seafood lovers and health enthusiasts.
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh chopped cilantro (for garnish)
- 1 1/2 cups corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 2 tbsp chopped cilantro
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- Salt, to taste
- 2 ripe avocados
- Juice of 1/2 lime
- 1/2 cup mayo or Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tsp hot sauce (optional, to taste)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp chopped cilantro
- Salt, to taste
- Cooked rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice (for serving)
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and the juice of 1 lime. Toss the shrimp in the marinade and let sit for 15–20 minutes.
- While the shrimp marinates, combine corn, diced red bell pepper, green onions, cilantro, and lime juice in another bowl. Season with salt to taste, mix well, and chill in the refrigerator.
- Scoop out the flesh of the ripe avocados into a bowl. Mash with lime juice, salt, and pepper until creamy but slightly chunky.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together mayo (or Greek yogurt), lime juice, hot sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and cilantro. Adjust the consistency if necessary.
- Heat your grill or a grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until they turn pink.
- In a serving bowl, add a base of rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice. Top with the corn salsa, avocado mash, and grilled shrimp. Drizzle generously with the creamy sauce and garnish with fresh cilantro.
Notes
Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Store the avocado separately to prevent browning.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Keywords: shrimp, avocado, corn, salsa, healthy, grilling, seafood