This bright and fresh grilled shrimp bowl is packed with flavor! Juicy shrimp, creamy avocado, and sweet corn salsa come together for a tasty, healthy meal.
I love how easy it is to whip up this bowl for lunch. Just grill the shrimp, mix the salsa, and you’re all set! It’s like a party in a bowl! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are perfect for grilling. If you’re allergic or don’t have shrimp, you can swap it for chicken or tofu. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly!
Olive oil: This adds healthy fat and depth of flavor. You can use avocado oil or any neutral oil instead, but olive oil gives that distinct taste I love!
Spices: Smoked paprika, cumin, and chili powder bring life to the shrimp. For a milder version, omit the chili powder or replace it with paprika.
Corn: Fresh corn is sweet and crunchy, but frozen corn works just as well when fresh isn’t available. You can use black beans or diced bell peppers for a different taste.
Avocado: The creaminess is key! If you’re out of avocados, try using hummus for a different flavor with a similar texture.
How Can You Grill the Shrimp Perfectly?
Grilling shrimp can be tricky, but with the right tips, you’ll nail it!
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This helps sear the shrimp quickly, sealing in the juices.
- Make sure they’re well-marinated for at least 10-15 min. This not only flavors the shrimp but also makes them tender.
- Thread shrimp onto skewers for easy handling, or use a grill basket. This way, they won’t fall through the grill grates!
- Grill them for just 2-3 minutes on each side—overcooked shrimp can get rubbery. Look for them to turn pink and opaque!
By following these tips, you’ll enjoy perfectly grilled shrimp every time! It’s a fun and tasty way to enjoy a healthy meal.
Healthy Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado and Corn Salsa
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lime
For the Corn Salsa:
- 1 cup fresh or frozen corn kernels (thawed if frozen)
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes or red bell pepper, finely diced
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional for heat)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Avocado Mash:
- 1 large ripe avocado
- 1 tsp lime juice
- Salt to taste
For the Creamy Dressing:
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp mayonnaise (optional)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tsp lime juice
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Time Needed:
This delicious meal will take about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick yet wholesome option perfect for lunch or dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
In a bowl, mix together the olive oil, smoked paprika, ground cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and lime juice. Add the shrimp and toss until they are well-coated. Let them marinate for 10-15 minutes to soak up the flavors.
2. Make the Corn Salsa:
In a medium bowl, combine the corn kernels, diced red onion, cherry tomatoes or red bell pepper, chopped jalapeño (if using), cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and set it aside to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Prepare the Avocado Mash:
In a small bowl, mash the avocado with lime juice and a pinch of salt until it’s creamy but still a bit chunky. This will add a nice texture to your bowl!
4. Make the Creamy Dressing:
In another small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise (if using), minced garlic, chopped cilantro, lime juice, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well, then refrigerate until you are ready to serve.
5. Grill the Shrimp:
Heat a grill, grill pan, or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the marinated shrimp on the grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are opaque and slightly charred. Keep an eye on them so they don’t overcook!
6. Assemble the Bowl:
In each serving bowl, spread a layer of the avocado mash, followed by a generous scoop of the corn salsa. Top it off with the grilled shrimp for a beautiful presentation.
7. Drizzle the Dressing:
Finally, drizzle the creamy dressing over the shrimp and enjoy your colorful, flavorful meal immediately!
This healthy grilled shrimp bowl is not just easy to make, but it’s also bursting with flavor from the smoky shrimp, fresh corn salsa, and luscious avocado. Enjoy every bite of your nutritious creation!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the frozen shrimp completely before marinating. You can thaw them overnight in the fridge or place them in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for about 15-20 minutes.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer a milder dish, feel free to omit the jalapeño from the corn salsa and reduce or remove the chili powder from the shrimp seasoning. You can also balance heat with extra lime juice and avocado to keep it flavorful without the spice!
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the corn salsa and avocado mash a few hours in advance. Just keep them stored in airtight containers in the fridge. Grilling the shrimp is best done fresh to maintain their texture and flavor, but you can marinate them beforehand!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat the shrimp gently in a skillet to avoid overcooking. The corn salsa and avocado mash can be enjoyed cold, but for the best texture, it’s best to consume them soon after making.
