Shrimp Bowl with Avocado

This vibrant grilled shrimp bowl brings together succulent seafood, fresh vegetables, and zesty flavors in one nutritious meal. Perfect for busy weeknights when you want something healthy yet satisfying, these bowls offer a delicious balance of protein, healthy fats, and colorful vegetables that will leave you feeling nourished and content.

I first created this recipe during a summer when I was trying to incorporate more seafood into our diet. What started as a simple experiment quickly became our go to meal for casual entertaining because everyone can build their bowl exactly how they like it.

Ingredients

• Large shrimp: fresh is best but frozen and thawed works wonderfully too
• Olive oil: provides the perfect base for the shrimp seasoning without overpowering the delicate flavor
• Paprika: adds a lovely color and subtle smoky flavor to the shrimp
• Garlic powder: gives depth without the risk of burning that fresh garlic might have when grilling
• Frozen corn: sweeter and more consistent than fresh corn outside of peak summer season
• Red onion: adds a beautiful color contrast and sharp flavor that balances the sweetness of the corn
• Fresh cilantro: brightens the entire dish with its distinctive flavor
• Avocado: provides creamy texture and healthy fats that make the bowl satisfying
• Mayonnaise and sour cream: create the perfect creamy base for the sauce without being too heavy

Step-by-Step Instructions

Marinate the Shrimp:

In a medium bowl combine the peeled and deveined shrimp with olive oil and seasonings. Make sure each piece is evenly coated with the spice mixture. Let it sit for at least 5 minutes while you prepare the other components. This brief marinade allows the flavors to penetrate without making the shrimp mushy.

Prepare the Corn Salsa:

Combine the thawed corn kernels with finely diced red onion, chopped cilantro, and minced jalapeño if using. The key here is to cut all ingredients to a similar small size for a cohesive mixture. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the mixture and add salt to taste. The acid from the lime both preserves the freshness and enhances the flavors.

Grill the Shrimp:

Heat your grill pan until it's quite hot then add the marinated shrimp in a single layer. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan or the shrimp will steam rather than grill. Cook just until they turn pink and opaque about 2 to 3 minutes per side. Overcooked shrimp become tough and rubbery so watch them carefully.

Make the Creamy Sauce:

Whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, chopped cilantro, lemon juice, and minced garlic in a small bowl until smooth. This sauce should be the consistency of thick salad dressing. If it seems too thick add a teaspoon of water at a time until you reach the desired consistency.

Assemble the Bowls:

Start with a base of corn salsa in each bowl. Arrange the grilled shrimp on top. Add slices or chunks of ripe avocado around the edges. Drizzle the creamy garlic sauce generously over everything. Finish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and chopped green onions for a professional looking presentation.

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The creamy garlic sauce is absolutely my favorite part of this recipe. I've been known to make extra just to have on hand for other dishes throughout the week. My husband now requests this sauce for everything from sandwiches to vegetable dipping, and I'm happy to oblige since it takes just minutes to prepare.

Make Ahead Options

This shrimp bowl recipe works beautifully for meal prep. You can prepare all components up to two days in advance and store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The corn salsa actually improves after sitting for a few hours as the flavors meld together. Just wait to slice the avocado until right before serving to prevent browning. When ready to eat simply reheat the shrimp gently in the microwave or enjoy it cold.

Variations to Try

While this recipe is delicious as written there are countless ways to make it your own. Try substituting grilled chicken or tofu for the shrimp if you have dietary restrictions. Add black beans for extra protein and fiber. Replace the corn salsa with mango salsa for a tropical twist. You can also turn this into a rice bowl by adding a scoop of cooked brown rice or cauliflower rice as the base. The creamy garlic sauce works wonderfully with any of these variations.

Nutritional Benefits

This bowl is not just delicious but also packed with nutrition. The shrimp provides lean protein essential for muscle maintenance and repair. Avocado contributes heart healthy monounsaturated fats and fiber. The colorful vegetables in the corn salsa deliver various vitamins and antioxidants. Even the creamy sauce when enjoyed in moderation adds beneficial fats that help your body absorb the fat soluble vitamins in the vegetables. This balanced meal keeps you satisfied while nourishing your body.

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Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this bowl?

Absolutely! Thaw frozen shrimp completely before marinating and grilling. Pat them dry with paper towels to ensure they grill properly and don't release excess moisture.

→ How can I make this dish dairy-free?

To make the creamy garlic sauce dairy-free, replace the sour cream with dairy-free yogurt or additional mayonnaise. You can also use a plant-based mayo for a completely dairy-free option.

→ What's the best way to tell when shrimp are perfectly cooked?

Perfectly cooked shrimp turn from translucent to opaque and form a 'C' shape. They should be pink with red tails and have a tender-firm texture. Avoid overcooking, which causes them to tighten into an 'O' shape and become rubbery.

→ Can I prepare any components ahead of time?

Yes! The corn salsa and creamy garlic sauce can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance and stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The shrimp can be marinated for up to 2 hours before cooking.

→ What can I substitute for cilantro if I don't like it?

Fresh parsley makes an excellent substitute for cilantro. For a different flavor profile, you could also use fresh basil, mint, or a combination of fresh herbs based on your preference.

→ How can I make this bowl more filling?

Add a base of cooked grains like brown rice, quinoa, or farro. You could also include black beans or edamame for extra protein and fiber, making it a more substantial meal.