Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado is a vibrant, wholesome meal that combines smoky, tender shrimp with creamy avocado and a fresh medley of veggies and grains. This bowl is packed with bright flavors, contrasting textures, and nourishing ingredients that make it a perfect choice for a quick lunch or a light, satisfying dinner. Easy to customize and full of wholesome goodness, it’s a delicious way to enjoy a balanced and flavorful meal.
Why You’ll Love This Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado
Smoky, juicy shrimp: Grilled to perfection with a touch of seasoning for bold flavor.
Creamy avocado: Adds richness and smooth texture to every bite.
Fresh, crisp veggies: Provide crunch and vibrant color to the bowl.
Nutritious base: Often served over rice, quinoa, or greens for sustained energy.
Quick and easy: Ready in under 25 minutes, ideal for busy days.
Balanced and satisfying: Combines protein, healthy fats, and fiber in one bowl.
Customizable: Add your favorite sauces, herbs, or toppings to personalize the dish.
Enjoy this Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado—a fresh, tasty, and nourishing meal that’s bursting with flavor!
Ingredients for Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado
This shrimp bowl is packed with smoky, juicy shrimp and cool, creamy avocado. Here’s what you’ll need:
Shrimp: Large, peeled, and deveined shrimp are the stars of this dish. They cook quickly and soak up flavors beautifully.
Olive Oil: A drizzle of olive oil adds richness and helps the spices stick to the shrimp.
Garlic Powder: This brings a savory depth to the shrimp without the hassle of fresh garlic.
Paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness and vibrant color to the dish.
Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for enhancing the natural flavors of the shrimp.
Brown Rice or Quinoa: These whole grains serve as a hearty base, providing fiber and nutrients.
Corn Kernels: Fresh, frozen, or canned corn adds sweetness and crunch to the salsa.
Avocado: Creamy and rich, avocado brings a luxurious texture that balances the dish.
Cherry Tomatoes: Their juicy burst of flavor complements the other ingredients perfectly.
Red Onion: Finely chopped, it adds a sharp bite that brightens the bowl.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brings a pop of color and a refreshing taste.
Lime Juice: A squeeze of lime adds acidity, brightening the entire dish.
Sour Cream: This creamy element ties everything together, adding a tangy finish.
Hot Sauce (optional): For those who like a kick, a dash of hot sauce can elevate the flavors.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Feel free to mix and match ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Cooking should be fun and flexible!
How to Make Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado
Creating your Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado is a straightforward process that’s as enjoyable as it is delicious. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a vibrant meal ready in no time!
Step 1: Preheat the Grill
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This step is crucial for even cooking. A hot grill ensures that the shrimp sear beautifully, locking in their juices and flavor. Trust me, you want that perfect char!
Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp
In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. This seasoning mix is where the magic begins. If you have a little extra time, marinating the shrimp for 30 minutes can deepen the flavors. It’s worth the wait!
Step 3: Skewer the Shrimp
Thread the seasoned shrimp onto skewers. If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent burning. If you don’t have skewers, no worries! You can grill the shrimp directly on the grill grates or use a grill basket for easy handling.
Step 4: Grill the Shrimp
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side. You’ll know the shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque. Keep an eye on them; shrimp cook quickly, and you don’t want to overdo it!
Step 5: Make the Avocado Corn Salsa
While the shrimp are grilling, prepare the avocado corn salsa. In a separate bowl, combine corn, diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice. This salsa is fresh, vibrant, and adds a delightful crunch to your bowl. It’s the perfect complement to the grilled shrimp!
Step 6: Prepare the Creamy Sauce
In another small bowl, whisk together sour cream, lime juice, and hot sauce (if you’re feeling adventurous). This creamy sauce is versatile and can be adjusted to your taste. It adds a tangy finish that ties all the flavors together beautifully.
Step 7: Assemble the Bowls
Now it’s time to bring it all together! Start with a base of brown rice or quinoa in each bowl. Top it with the grilled shrimp and a generous scoop of avocado corn salsa. Drizzle the creamy sauce over the top for that finishing touch. Don’t forget to make it look pretty; a well-presented dish is always more appetizing!
Tips for Success
Marinate the shrimp for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavor.
Use fresh ingredients for the best taste, especially the avocado and cilantro.
Don’t overcrowd the grill; give shrimp space for even cooking.
Experiment with different grains like farro or couscous for variety.
Adjust the spice level in the creamy sauce to suit your taste.
Equipment Needed
Grill: A gas or charcoal grill works perfectly. Indoor grills are a great alternative.
Skewers: Wooden or metal skewers for threading shrimp. Use a grill basket if you prefer.
Mixing Bowls: For seasoning shrimp and mixing salsa and sauce.
Whisk: Handy for blending the creamy sauce smoothly.
Variations
Protein Swap: Substitute shrimp with grilled chicken, tofu, or even steak for a different protein experience.
Grain Options: Try using cauliflower rice or farro instead of brown rice or quinoa for a unique twist.
Spice it Up: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the salsa for an extra kick.
Vegan Version: Replace sour cream with a plant-based yogurt and use chickpeas instead of shrimp for a hearty vegan bowl.
Seasonal Veggies: Incorporate seasonal vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini into the salsa for added color and nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Side Salad: Pair your bowl with a light mixed greens salad drizzled with a citrus vinaigrette.
Refreshing Drink: Enjoy with a cold glass of iced tea or a zesty limeade to complement the flavors.
Presentation: Serve in colorful bowls and garnish with extra cilantro for a vibrant touch.
FAQs about Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen shrimp work just fine. Just make sure to thaw them completely before seasoning and grilling. This will help them cook evenly and absorb all those delicious flavors.
What can I substitute for avocado if I’m not a fan?
If avocado isn’t your thing, try using diced mango or even a dollop of guacamole. Both options add a creamy texture and a hint of sweetness that pairs well with the shrimp.
How can I make this dish spicier?
For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños to the avocado corn salsa or increase the amount of hot sauce in the creamy sauce. You can also sprinkle some cayenne pepper on the shrimp before grilling for an extra layer of heat.
Can I prepare the salsa ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the avocado corn salsa a few hours in advance. Just keep it covered in the fridge to maintain freshness. However, I recommend adding the avocado just before serving to prevent browning.
Is this Grilled Shrimp Bowl gluten-free?
Yes, this dish is naturally gluten-free! Just ensure that any sauces or additional ingredients you use are also gluten-free. Enjoy this healthy meal without any worries!
Final Thoughts
Creating a Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado is more than just cooking; it’s an experience that brings joy to your kitchen. The vibrant colors, fresh flavors, and satisfying textures come together to create a meal that feels special, even on a busy weeknight. Each bite is a reminder of how simple ingredients can transform into something extraordinary. Whether you’re sharing it with family or enjoying it solo, this bowl is sure to bring smiles and satisfaction. So fire up that grill, and let the deliciousness unfold—your taste buds will thank you!
A delicious and healthy Grilled Shrimp Bowl featuring avocado corn salsa and a creamy sauce, perfect for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Scale
1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 cups cooked brown rice or quinoa
1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
1 ripe avocado, diced
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Juice of 1 lime
1/2 cup sour cream
1 tablespoon lime juice
1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
Instructions
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
In a bowl, combine the shrimp, olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss to coat the shrimp evenly.
Thread the shrimp onto skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes beforehand).
Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are pink and opaque. Remove from the grill and set aside.
In a separate bowl, mix together the corn, avocado, cherry tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice. Gently stir to combine.
In another small bowl, whisk together the sour cream, lime juice, and hot sauce (if using) until smooth.
To assemble the bowls, place a serving of brown rice or quinoa at the bottom, top with grilled shrimp, and add a generous scoop of avocado corn salsa. Drizzle with the creamy sauce.
Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
For added flavor, marinate the shrimp in the olive oil and spices for 30 minutes before grilling.
Substitute the shrimp with grilled chicken or tofu for a different protein option.
