Ah, my friends, gather around because I’m about to share a dish that has quickly become one of my go-to favorites: Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa, and Creamy Garlic Sauce! This bowl is packed with flavor, color, and a touch of sunshine that can brighten even the gloomiest day.
I first stumbled upon this recipe during a summer barbecue five years ago when a friend prepared it for a small gathering. The combination of perfectly grilled shrimp, zesty corn salsa, and the luscious creamy garlic sauce was a culinary epiphany. From the very first bite, I was hooked! It transported me to a beachside café, where the sound of waves crashes harmoniously with laughter and joy. In the spirit of summer gatherings, I’ve adapted it over the years to include more of my personal flair, and I can’t wait to share it with you.
Let me tell you why I adore this meal: not only is it a feast for the eyes (because we eat with our eyes first, don’t we?), but it’s a punch of flavor that layers beautifully. I love the crunch from the corn salsa, the creaminess of the avocado balanced with garlic’s zest, and the tender, smoky shrimp that brings it all together. Plus, it’s easy to whip up any day of the week!
So, grab your apron, and let’s make this delightful dish that’s sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen!
What’s in Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce?
Now, let’s break down the ingredients that will make this stunning bowl come to life. Each component brings its uniqueness, lending the dish an array of exciting flavors that work harmoniously together.
Shrimp: I usually opt for large, fresh shrimp (16-20 count). If you can find them wild-caught, that’s a bonus. Don’t forget to pay attention to sustainability! Prepped right, shrimp are smokey, buttery, and deliver that sweet taste we all love.
Avocado: Ah, the creamy goodness of avocado! Not only does it add great texture, but it’s also filled with healthy fats that keep you satisfied. Look for avocados that are slightly soft to the touch but not mushy—what a joy when you slice it open to find that perfect green.
Corn: Fresh corn on the cob is my preferred choice when in season, but frozen corn is an absolute lifesaver when it’s not! It offers that sweet crunch that perfectly balances the flavors. Plus, there’s a delightful satisfaction from grilling it to get a lovely char.
Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onion brings some zing and a pop of color to the bowl. Just a bit goes a long way in delivering that refreshing crunch and a slight bite.
Tomato: Juicy cherry or grape tomatoes work wonderfully in the corn salsa. They’re little bursts of sweetness that create a beautiful contrast against the other ingredients.
Cilantro: I know cilantro can be a divisive herb, but for me, it’s essential! The bright flavor it adds is unmatched. If you’re feeling adventurous but cilantro isn’t your jam, try fresh parsley as a substitute.
Lime: Fresh lime juice not only brightens the flavors of the salsa but can also be used to marinate the shrimp. You don’t want to skip this; it’s a game-changer!
Garlic: I have a strong love for garlic—fresh minced garlic to be exact! It’s the soul of the creamy garlic sauce and adds depth and robust flavor to the shrimp.
Greek Yogurt: For the creamy garlic sauce, I like using plain Greek yogurt since it gives a delightful creaminess without all the calories of heavy cream. Plus, it’s tangy, which you’ll appreciate in this dish.
Olive Oil: A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil will help prevent the shrimp from sticking while grilling, and it enhances the flavors beautifully.
Spices: A blend of salt, pepper, and perhaps a touch of paprika or chili powder can elevate the shrimp seasoning to make it even more heavenly.
Is Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce Good for You?
Let’s chat about why this dish is not just delicious, but also a healthy option! I believe in enjoying food without guilt, but it’s always nice to know what we’re putting into our bodies.
Shrimp: As a lean protein, shrimp packs a powerful punch with relatively few calories while being rich in nutrients like vitamin B12, iodine, and selenium, all of which are beneficial for your overall health.
Avocado: This little green fruit is filled with healthy monounsaturated fats that can reduce bad cholesterol levels while boosting heart health. Plus, it’s loaded with vitamins E, K, and B-6.
Corn: Corn is a whole grain packed with fiber, antioxidants, and essential nutrients, allowing for digestion support. The sweetness is an absolute treat—and can you believe corn is actually a vegetable AND a grain?
Garlic: This powerhouse is believed to have numerous health benefits, including immune system support, reducing blood pressure, and containing compounds that can help avoid heart disease.
Greek Yogurt: Replacing traditional mayo or cream with Greek yogurt in the creamy garlic sauce adds protein while keeping the dish refreshing and tangy. It’s an excellent source of calcium and beneficial probiotics.
With this balance of ingredients, I’d say you’re well on your way to enjoying a wholesome, satisfying meal that leaves your taste buds dancing.
Ingredients List
Ready to make a splash in the kitchen? Here’s everything you’ll need for your Grilled Shrimp Bowl, which serves about four people:
– **1 pound large shrimp (16-20 count), peeled and deveined**
– **2 ripe avocados, sliced**
– **1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)**
– **½ cup red onion, finely chopped**
– **1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved**
– **¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped**
– **2 limes (one for marinating shrimp, one for salsa)**
– **2-3 cloves garlic, minced**
– **½ cup plain Greek yogurt**
– **2 tablespoons olive oil**
– **Salt and pepper, to taste**
– **Optional spices: paprika or chili powder for seasoning shrimp**
How to Make Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce?
Let’s dive into the cooking process! It’s simpler than you might think. Here’s how you can impress family and friends (or just yourself!) with this delightful bowl:
1. **Marinate the Shrimp**: In a large bowl, combine the shrimp with two tablespoons of olive oil, juice from one lime, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Let them marinate for about 15-20 minutes to soak in all that flavor.
2. **Prepare the Corn Salsa**: While the shrimp is marinating, create the corn salsa. In a medium bowl, mix together the corn, red onion, cherry tomatoes, cilantro, juice from the second lime, and a pinch of salt. Give it a good stir and set it aside. This salsa is a gem, and you can enjoy it on tacos or with chips, too!
3. **Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce**: In another bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, minced garlic, and a bit of salt. Mix until everything is well incorporated. This sauce is perfect for drizzling over the bowl; it’s creamy and packed with garlicky goodness!
4. **Grill the Shrimp**: Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent burning while grilling. Thread the shrimp onto the skewers, and grill them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque.
5. **Assemble the Bowl**: Now comes the most exciting part! In each bowl, layer the sliced avocado and grilled shrimp. Top with a generous scoop of corn salsa and drizzle that creamy garlic sauce all over. You can also sprinkle more cilantro for that fresh taste.
6. **Serve and Enjoy**: Serve your Grilled Shrimp Bowls warm, and watch how quickly they disappear! You can enjoy them with rice, quinoa, or just as they are.
Spice It Up!
Here are some additional tips and variations to elevate and customize your Grilled Shrimp Bowl:
– **Add Extra Veggies**: Roasted bell peppers, zucchini, or even shredded cabbage can add even more flavor and texture.
– **Try Different Proteins**: If shrimp isn’t an option, you could substitute it with grilled chicken, tofu, or even black beans to keep it vegetarian-friendly.
– **Spice Levels**: If you love a kick, consider marinating the shrimp with some chipotle powder or sliced jalapeños for a spicy twist.
– **Great for Meal Prep**: This bowl is perfect for meal prep! Just keep the components separate in the fridge and throw them together just before serving to maintain freshness.
With these variations in mind, you can personalize this bowl according to your tastes and dietary needs.
Now, that’s it—your culinary adventure into the world of Grilled Shrimp Bowls has just begun! I can’t wait for you to try it out. When you do, don’t forget to savor every bite! And if you feel like it, share your creations or your thoughts with me. I’m eager to hear your experiences! It’s these moments of food exploration that fill our bellies and our hearts, creating the memories we cherish—all around a delicious meal. Enjoy!
