The Zesty Grilled Shrimp Bowl Recipe: A Coastal Summer Delight

Crafting a delectable grilled shrimp bowl can transport you to coastal culinary bliss with minimal effort.

Summer nights call for vibrant, fresh ingredients that sing on your plate.

Succulent seafood pairs beautifully with sweet corn salsa and creamy sauce, creating a harmonious flavor profile.

Marinated prawns charred to perfection bring a smoky dimension that awakens your taste buds.

Ripe avocado adds a luxurious, silky texture that balances the dish’s bold elements.

Colorful ingredients promise a meal that looks as incredible as it tastes.

Jump into this simple yet spectacular recipe and savor every delightful bite.

What Makes This Grilled Shrimp Bowl a Hit

• Blend zesty marinades, fresh salsa, and creamy sauce for a mouthwatering meal that bursts with vibrant southwestern-inspired tastes.
• Grilling shrimp creates perfectly charred edges while keeping the seafood tender, making restaurant-quality cooking achievable at home with minimal culinary skills.
• Swap ingredients like protein, base grains, or sauce components to match dietary preferences, making this recipe incredibly versatile for different eating styles and palates.
• Combine lean protein from shrimp, healthy fats from avocado, and fresh vegetables for a balanced, nutritious dish that doesn't compromise on incredible flavor profiles.

Ingredients in the Shrimp Bowl with Avocado and Salsa

• Shrimp: Succulent seafood as the star protein of the bowl.
• Avocado: Creamy and rich mashed base with a zesty lime touch.

• Olive Oil, Lime Juice: Adds bright and tangy marinade notes.
• Paprika, Cumin, Chili Powder, Garlic Powder: Provides warm and spicy seasoning.
• Salt, Pepper: Brings essential seasoning balance.

• Corn, Bell Pepper, Green Onions: Fresh and crunchy salsa ingredients.
• Cilantro: Adds vibrant herb flavor to both salsa and sauce.
• Mayonnaise or Yogurt, Hot Sauce: Creates creamy and spicy sauce base.
• Smoked Paprika: Adds smoky depth to the sauce.

• Rice, Quinoa: Provides hearty grain foundation for the bowl.

Steps to Make Grilled Shrimp with Creamy Sauce

Step 1: Infuse Shrimp with Flavor

• Olive oil
• Paprika
• Cumin
• Chili powder
• Garlic powder
• Lime juice
• Salt
• Black pepper

Coat the shrimp generously and let them soak up the delicious spices for 15-20 minutes.

Step 2: Craft a Sunshine Corn Salsa

• Corn kernels
• Diced bell pepper
• Chopped green onions
• Freshly chopped cilantro
• Lime juice
• Pinch of salt

Gently mix and refrigerate to let flavors mingle.

Step 3: Create Creamy Avocado Mash

Scoop ripe avocado into a bowl.

Mash with lime juice, salt, and pepper until it reaches a luxurious, slightly chunky consistency.

Step 4: Whip Up Tangy Creamy Sauce

• Mayonnaise
• Lime juice
• Hot sauce
• Garlic powder
• Smoked paprika
• Chopped cilantro
• Salt

Add a splash of water if you want a thinner consistency.

Step 5: Sear the Shrimp

Fire up a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.

Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and develop beautiful char marks.

Step 6: Build Your Flavor-Packed Bowl

• Fluffy rice or quinoa base
• Corn salsa
• Creamy avocado mash
• Sizzling grilled shrimp

Drizzle with the tangy sauce and sprinkle fresh cilantro on top.

Tips for Perfect Shrimp Bowls Every Time

• Marinate for at least 30 minutes to allow spices to penetrate deeply and enhance overall taste profile.
• Drain corn kernels completely and chill ingredients separately to maintain crisp texture and prevent watery consistency.
• Use ripe avocados and mash with a fork for ideal chunky-smooth texture that adds richness to the bowl.
• Pat shrimp dry before grilling to ensure beautiful char marks and prevent steaming instead of grilling.
• Adjust hot sauce quantity to match personal heat preference, ranging from mild to extra spicy according to taste.

How to Keep Grilled Shrimp Bowls Fresh

• Store each component separately in airtight containers for up to 2-3 days. Keep shrimp, corn salsa, avocado mash, and sauce in different sealed containers to maintain freshness and prevent flavor mixing.
• Warm gently in a skillet over low heat for 1-2 minutes, adding a splash of water to prevent drying. Alternatively, microwave for 30 seconds, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
• Stir creamy sauce before serving to restore consistency. Bring avocado mash to room temperature and mix well to reintegrate ingredients. Avoid overheating to prevent separation.
• Layer components in a bowl starting with warm rice or quinoa, then add reheated shrimp, corn salsa, and room-temperature avocado mash. Drizzle with sauce and garnish with fresh cilantro for a revived meal.

Pairings That Go Well With Grilled Shrimp Bowl

• Pair Zesty Citrus Margarita: Blend tequila, fresh lime juice, triple sec, and a touch of agave for a vibrant cocktail that complements the shrimp's spicy marinade and bright citrus notes.
• Chill Crisp White Wine: Select a sauvignon blanc or pinot grigio with high acidity to cut through the creamy sauce and match the bowl's fresh, light flavors.
• Match Mexican-Style Cerveza: Choose a light lager like Corona or Modelo with a squeeze of lime to enhance the dish's spicy and tangy profile, creating a refreshing counterpoint.
• Boost Fresh Agua Fresca: Craft a watermelon or cucumber water with mint to provide a cool, hydrating drink that balances the grilled shrimp's warmth and spice.

Ways to Customize Your Grilled Shrimp Bowl

• Low-Carb Cauliflower Base: Replace rice or quinoa with riced cauliflower for a lighter, lower-carb alternative that keeps the dish nutritious and flavorful.
• Vegetarian Protein Swap: Substitute shrimp with grilled tofu or tempeh marinated in the same spice blend for a plant-based version that maintains the original recipe's zesty profile.
• Dairy-Free Sauce Option: Use coconut yogurt or cashew cream instead of mayo to create a creamy sauce that's completely dairy-free and suitable for those with lactose intolerance.
• Spicy Kick Variation: Add diced jalapeños to the corn salsa and increase hot sauce in the creamy sauce for those who love an extra-spicy southwestern-style bowl.

FAQs

• What kind of shrimp works best for this recipe?

Large or jumbo shrimp are ideal because they’re easier to grill and have a more substantial texture. Peeled and deveined shrimp save time and are convenient for this dish.

• Can I use a different protein instead of shrimp?

Yes, you can substitute shrimp with grilled chicken, fish like salmon or tilapia, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Adjust grilling time accordingly based on the protein.

• Is there a way to make this recipe spicier?

Add extra hot sauce to the creamy sauce, include diced jalapeños in the corn salsa, or sprinkle red pepper flakes on top. You can also use a spicier chili powder in the shrimp marinade for more heat.

• How do I know when the shrimp are fully cooked?

Shrimp are done when they turn pink and form a loose “C” shape. Overcooking makes them tough and rubbery, so watch them carefully and cook for just 2-3 minutes per side.

Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce Recipe

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4.9 from 29 reviews

• Total Time: 26 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Succulent grilled shrimp bowl dances with zesty corn salsa and creamy sauce, bringing Mexican coastal flavors to your plate. Layers of fresh ingredients create a perfect balance of textures and bold tastes you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 1 lb (454 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined

Spices and Seasonings:

• 2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil
• 1 teaspoon (5 ml) smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) chili powder
• 1/4 teaspoon (1.25 ml) garlic powder

Finishing and Flavor:

• Juice of 1 lime
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh chopped cilantro (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Infuse shrimp with vibrant spices by blending olive oil, paprika, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Coat shrimp thoroughly and marinate for 15-20 minutes to enhance flavor penetration.
2. Craft a zesty corn salsa by combining sweet corn kernels, diced bell pepper, finely chopped green onions, fresh cilantro, tangy lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Refrigerate to meld flavors.
3. Transform ripe avocado into a luxurious spread by mashing with lime juice, salt, and pepper. Aim for a texture that’s creamy yet maintains subtle chunky elements.
4. Construct a dynamic sauce by whisking mayo (or yogurt), lime juice, hot sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika, chopped cilantro, and salt. Adjust consistency with water if needed for smooth drizzling.
5. Sear marinated shrimp on a preheated grill or grill pan at medium-high heat (around 400°F). Cook 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and develop light char marks.
6. Construct the bowl by layering a base of rice or quinoa, then artfully arrange corn salsa, avocado mash, and grilled shrimp. Finish with a generous drizzle of creamy sauce and garnish with fresh cilantro sprigs.

Notes

• Swap mayo with Greek yogurt for a lighter, protein-packed sauce that adds tangy freshness and reduces overall calories.
• Prevent shrimp from sticking by oiling grill grates thoroughly and using high-quality fresh shrimp with minimal moisture.
• Create gluten-free variation by replacing rice with quinoa or cauliflower rice, ensuring everyone can enjoy this vibrant bowl.
• Enhance meal prep efficiency by preparing marinade, salsa, and sauce ahead of time, storing separately in sealed containers for quick assembly.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 300
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 400 mg
• Fat: 15 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 8 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 30 g
• Cholesterol: 200 mg