Grilled Shrimp Avocado Bowl

This grilled shrimp bowl combines vibrant flavors with nutritious ingredients for a meal that's both satisfying and impressive. The smoky grilled shrimp pairs perfectly with creamy avocado and sweet corn salsa, all tied together with a zesty sauce that elevates every bite.

I created this recipe after returning from a coastal vacation where I fell in love with fresh seafood bowls. It has since become my go to solution when I want something that feels special but doesnt require hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• Shrimp: fresh or frozen thawed works wonderfully look for wild caught for best flavor and sustainability
• Smoked paprika: adds that crucial smoky depth that makes these bowls restaurant worthy
• Avocados: choose ones that yield slightly to pressure for perfect creaminess
• Corn: fresh kernels offer the sweetest flavor but frozen works beautifully in winter months
• Bell pepper: adds color crunch and vitamin C to the salsa
• Greek yogurt: in the sauce provides tanginess and protein try full fat for best texture
• Lime juice: fresh is non negotiable here it brightens everything it touches
• Cilantro: controversial but essential for authentic flavor use flat leaf parsley if you prefer

Step-by-Step Instructions

Marinate the Shrimp:

Combine olive oil with all spices lime juice salt and pepper in a medium bowl. This marinade works magic in just 15 minutes but can go longer if you have time. The acid from the lime begins to cook the shrimp slightly while the spices penetrate the flesh. Toss occasionally for even flavor distribution.

Prepare the Corn Salsa:

If using fresh corn slice kernels from the cob carefully standing it upright in a wide bowl to catch flying kernels. Mix with diced peppers onions cilantro and lime juice. Let the flavors meld while you prepare other components. The salt draws moisture creating a light natural dressing.

Create the Avocado Mash:

Select perfectly ripe avocados and scoop flesh into a bowl. Add lime juice immediately to prevent browning. Use a fork to create texture leaving some small chunks for interest. Season generously with salt and pepper tasting as you go. The mash should be flavorful enough to enjoy on its own.

Mix the Creamy Sauce:

Whisk mayo or yogurt with all seasonings until smooth. Adjust thickness with water if needed it should be pourable but not runny. The sauce brings everything together so taste and adjust seasoning accordingly. A balance of creaminess heat and acid makes this component special.

Grill the Shrimp:

Heat grill or pan until very hot. Place shrimp carefully without overcrowding to ensure proper charring. Watch closely as they cook quickly about 2 minutes per side. Look for pink opaque flesh with light char marks. Overcooking results in rubbery texture so err on the side of less cooking time.

Assemble Your Bowl:

Start with your base if using. Layer components strategically corn salsa on one side avocado mash on another shrimp prominently displayed. Drizzle sauce artfully over the top and finish with fresh cilantro leaves. The visual appeal enhances the eating experience so take time with presentation.

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The smoked paprika is truly the secret weapon in this recipe. I discovered its transformative power during a cooking class in Spain and now keep multiple varieties in my pantry. Even when Im short on time this single ingredient makes the shrimp taste like they were cooked over an open flame.

Meal Prep Magic

This bowl concept works beautifully for weekly meal prep. Prepare all components on Sunday store separately in airtight containers and assemble fresh bowls throughout the week. The shrimp will keep for 2 days the corn salsa for 3 and the sauce for up to 5. Only the avocado mash needs to be made fresh each time though adding extra lime juice helps preserve it slightly longer.

Dietary Adaptations

This recipe accommodates many dietary preferences with simple swaps. For dairy free use vegan mayo in the sauce. Those avoiding grains can double the vegetables and omit the rice base or substitute cauliflower rice. Low carb eaters might prefer serving over mixed greens instead. The core flavors remain delicious regardless of these modifications making it a versatile option for mixed households.

Serving Suggestions

While delicious on its own this bowl pairs wonderfully with additional sides. Try warm corn tortillas for scooping or tortilla chips for added crunch. A simple side of black beans seasoned with cumin complements the flavors perfectly. For entertaining serve components buffet style letting guests build their own bowls a strategy that pleases everyone and makes hosting effortless.

Temperature Tips

The beauty of this dish lies in its contrasting temperatures. The warm shrimp against cool creamy avocado and crisp vegetables creates a sensory experience beyond flavor alone. For best results grill the shrimp just before serving while other components remain chilled. This temperature contrast elevates the dish from good to memorable especially during warmer months.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this bowl?

Yes, frozen shrimp works perfectly. Just thaw completely before marinating, pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, and then proceed with the recipe as written. Properly thawed shrimp will grill just as nicely as fresh.

→ How can I make this dish dairy-free?

Simply use mayo instead of Greek yogurt for the creamy sauce. The rest of the dish is naturally dairy-free, making it an easy adaptation without sacrificing flavor or creaminess.

→ What's the best way to grill shrimp without overcooking?

Shrimp cook extremely quickly - only 2-3 minutes per side on medium-high heat. Watch for them to turn pink and slightly opaque. They'll continue cooking briefly after removal from heat, so it's better to remove them just before they look completely done.

→ How can I meal prep this for lunches?

Store components separately: grilled shrimp, corn salsa, and the sauce can be refrigerated for 2-3 days. Prepare the avocado mash fresh before serving to prevent browning, or add extra lime juice and store with plastic wrap directly touching the surface. Assemble just before eating.

→ What can I substitute for avocado?

If you don't have avocados or prefer an alternative, try a black bean mash (seasoned with lime, garlic, and cumin) or hummus as the creamy component. These options provide similar texture while complementing the other flavors in the bowl.

→ Can I make this spicier?

Absolutely! Add a diced jalapeño to the corn salsa, increase the hot sauce in the creamy dressing, or add cayenne pepper to the shrimp marinade. You could also serve with additional hot sauce on the side for customizable heat levels.