Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado
The Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa, and Creamy Sauce is a refreshing, healthy, and flavorful dish that combines vibrant ingredients to create a satisfying meal. The juicy grilled shrimp, perfectly seasoned and cooked, are paired with fresh avocado slices that add a creamy texture. The corn salsa, made with sweet corn, diced tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice, adds a burst of sweetness and tang. The creamy sauce, often made with a blend of sour cream, mayo, and a hint of lime or chili, complements the freshness of the other components, bringing a rich, zesty flavor to the dish. This bowl is perfect for a light lunch or dinner, offering a balance of protein, healthy fats, and vegetables.
Ingredients:
For the Shrimp:
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
For the Corn Salsa:
1 cup frozen corn, thawed
1/2 cup diced red onion
1/4 cup chopped cilantro
1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional)
1 lime, juiced
Salt to taste
For the Creamy Sauce:
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup sour cream
1 tablespoon chopped cilantro
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 clove garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Bowl:
1 avocado, sliced
Sesame seeds, for garnish
Chopped green onions, for garnish
Instructions:
Prep the Shrimp: In a bowl, combine shrimp, olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Toss to coat.
Make the Corn Salsa: Combine corn, red onion, jalapeño (if using), cilantro, lime juice, and salt in a bowl. Mix gently and set aside.
Grill the Shrimp: Grill the shrimp over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
Make the Creamy Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, cilantro, lime juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
Assemble the Bowls: Divide cooked rice between bowls. Top with grilled shrimp, mango salsa, avocado slices, and drizzle with Creamy Sauce. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
Add more cayenne pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the shrimp marinade.
Make it a meal: Serve the bowls with a side salad or soup.
This dish has roots in Mexican and Southwestern cuisines, which often feature grilled seafood, corn, and fresh, bright flavors. The combination of grilled shrimp and vibrant salsa reflects the light, fresh meals common in coastal regions. Over time, the addition of creamy sauces has become a popular way to bring richness to these dishes. The Grilled Shrimp Bowl is part of a trend toward lighter, healthier meals that focus on fresh, wholesome ingredients while still delivering bold flavors. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch option.