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This vibrant grilled shrimp bowl combines perfectly seasoned shrimp with fresh avocado and a zesty corn salsa, all tied together with a creamy garlic sauce. The bright flavors and contrasting textures make this a refreshing yet satisfying meal that comes together in just 25 minutes.
I first created this bowl when looking for a light yet satisfying summer dinner that wouldn't heat up my kitchen. It quickly became our go to meal for entertaining friends who always ask for the recipe before leaving.
Ingredients
- For the Shrimp:
- Large shrimp peeled and deveined provides the perfect protein base that cooks quickly and absorbs flavors beautifully
- Olive oil helps the spices adhere while promoting browning
- Paprika adds a subtle smokiness and gorgeous color
- Garlic powder infuses flavor without burning like fresh garlic might
- Cayenne pepper creates a gentle heat that complements the sweetness of the shrimp
- For the Corn Salsa:
- Corn delivers natural sweetness and pleasant texture contrast
- Red onion adds sharpness and beautiful color
- Fresh cilantro brightens the entire dish with herbaceous notes
- Jalapeño introduces a customizable heat element
- Lime juice balances the sweetness with acidity
- For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- Mayonnaise creates a rich base for the sauce
- Sour cream adds tanginess and lightens the texture
- Fresh garlic provides essential pungent flavor
- Lemon juice cuts through the richness with bright acidity
- Cilantro ties the sauce to the salsa flavor profile
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Marinate the Shrimp:
- Place the cleaned shrimp in a medium bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Add the paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne if using. Gently toss until each shrimp is evenly coated with the spice mixture. Let sit for at least 5 minutes while you prepare other components.
- Prepare the Corn Salsa:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the thawed corn kernels with finely diced red onion. Add the minced jalapeño if using. Chop the cilantro leaves finely and add to the bowl along with fresh lime juice and a pinch of salt. Stir gently to combine all ingredients without mashing the corn. The lime juice will slightly "cook" the onion, removing some of its sharpness.
- Mix the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise and sour cream until smooth. Mince the garlic clove very finely or use a microplane for best texture. Add the garlic to the mayo mixture along with chopped cilantro, fresh lemon juice, salt and pepper. Whisk until completely incorporated. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.
- Grill the Shrimp:
- Heat a cast iron grill pan over medium high heat until hot. Place the marinated shrimp on the hot surface without overcrowding. Cook for 2 minutes until the bottom develops grill marks and turns pink. Flip each shrimp and cook for another 1–2 minutes until opaque throughout. Remove from heat immediately to prevent overcooking.
- Assemble the Bowls:
- Divide the corn salsa between two serving bowls. Arrange the grilled shrimp around one side of each bowl. Slice the avocado and fan out on the opposite side of the shrimp. Drizzle the creamy garlic sauce generously over the entire bowl. Finish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
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The cilantro in this recipe is truly transformative. I once made this for my brother who claimed to hate cilantro, but I finely chopped it so it blended seamlessly into the sauce and salsa. By dinner's end, he was raving about the fresh flavor and couldn't believe cilantro was the secret ingredient he'd been missing all along.
Make Ahead Options
This bowl is ideal for meal prepping with a few simple strategies. Prepare the corn salsa up to 24 hours ahead and store it covered in the refrigerator. The flavors actually improve as they meld together. The creamy garlic sauce can be made up to 3 days in advance and keeps beautifully in a sealed container. For the shrimp, you can marinade them up to 8 hours before cooking, but avoid longer marination as the acidity can affect the texture.
Customization Ideas
This versatile recipe welcomes many variations based on what you have available. For a different protein, try substituting grilled chicken, seared tofu, or even flaked salmon. The corn salsa works beautifully with additions like black beans, diced mango, or cherry tomatoes for different flavor profiles. If cilantro isn't your favorite, substitute fresh basil or parsley for a completely different but equally delicious result.
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Serving Suggestions
While delicious on its own, this shrimp bowl pairs wonderfully with several sides. For a heartier meal, add a base of cilantro lime rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice at the bottom of each bowl. On hot summer days, serve alongside chilled cucumber soup or a simple green salad dressed with lime vinaigrette. For entertaining, set up a build your own bowl station with all components arranged separately, allowing guests to customize their portions.
Perfect Temperature Tip
The key to perfect shrimp is avoiding overcooking. Shrimp cook incredibly quickly, usually needing just 2–3 minutes per side depending on size. Watch for the moment they turn from translucent gray to opaque pink with a slight curl. They should form a loose "C" shape when properly cooked. If they curl into a tight "O" shape, they've gone too far. Remember that shrimp will continue cooking for about a minute after removed from heat.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How can I ensure the shrimp are cooked perfectly?
Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking to prevent them from becoming rubbery.
- → Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen for the salsa?
Absolutely! Fresh corn that has been cooked or grilled adds an extra layer of flavor to the salsa.
- → Is there a substitute for mayonnaise in the garlic sauce?
Yes, you can use plain Greek yogurt for a lighter alternative while maintaining the creamy texture.
- → What can I serve alongside this bowl?
Pair the bowl with a small side salad, a serving of cooked rice, or a light soup to make it a heartier meal.
- → How do I adjust the spice level of this dish?
Add or reduce the amount of cayenne pepper in the shrimp marinade and jalapeño in the salsa to match your desired heat level.
- → Can I prepare any elements of this dish ahead of time?
Yes, the corn salsa and creamy garlic sauce can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator to save time.