Introduction: Your New Favorite Bowl
There’s something magical about that first bite of a perfectly balanced shrimp bowl – the smoky grilled shrimp, the creamy avocado, the crunch of fresh corn salsa, all tied together with that irresistible sauce. As a chef who’s served thousands of these bowls, I’m sharing my kitchen-tested version that’s:
- Faster than takeout (seriously, just 20 minutes!)
- Healthier than most restaurant versions (you control the ingredients)
- More customizable (spice level, dietary needs, etc.)
- Downright addictive (that sauce though…)
Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner, a meal prep superstar, or an impressive-but-easy dish for guests, this recipe delivers. Let’s make bowl magic!
*(Keyword usage: “Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce” – 1x in intro)*
Why This Recipe Beats Restaurant Bowls
✔ No hidden calories – You control the ingredients
✔ Costs about 4perserving vs. 4perserving vs. 15+ at restaurants
✔ Endlessly adaptable (see 5 delicious variations below)
✔ Meal prep champion (components stay fresh for days)
Ingredients You’ll Need
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| For shrimp: | ||
| Large shrimp | 1 lb | Peeled & deveined |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp | |
| Chili powder | 1 tsp | |
| Garlic powder | 1 tsp | |
| For bowls: | ||
| Avocado | 1 large | Sliced |
| Cherry tomatoes | 1 cup | Halved |
| Corn kernels | 1 cup | Fresh or grilled |
| Red onion | 1/4 cup | Diced |
| Cilantro | 1/4 cup | Chopped |
| For sauce: | ||
| Greek yogurt | 1/2 cup | |
| Lime juice | 2 tbsp | |
| Garlic | 1 clove | Minced |
| Honey | 1 tsp |
Pro Tip: For smoky depth, grill the corn first (or use a grill pan indoors)!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Shrimp
- Pat shrimp dry
- Toss with oil and spices
- Thread onto skewers (if using wooden, soak first)
2. Make the Corn Salsa
- Combine corn, tomatoes, onion, cilantro
- Add lime juice and salt to taste
3. Whip Up the Sauce
Blend yogurt, lime juice, garlic and honey until smooth
4. Grill to Perfection
- Grill shrimp 2-3 minutes per side
- Grill corn if using fresh (5-7 minutes)
5. Assemble Like a Pro
- Base: Rice or greens
- Layer: Shrimp, avocado, salsa
- Drizzle: Generous sauce
- Garnish: Extra cilantro
5 Game-Changing Variations
- Spicy Version – Add chipotle to sauce
- Low-Carb – Cauliflower rice base
- Vegan – Grilled tofu + vegan yogurt
- Mediterranean – Feta + cucumber
- Tropical – Mango salsa
Nutritional Information
Per serving (with rice):
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 28g
- Carbs: 45g
- Fiber: 8g
FAQs
What is the secret to grilling shrimp?
The key is high heat and dry shrimp! Pat them thoroughly dry before grilling, and cook just 2-3 minutes per side over direct high heat. Our recipe includes a chef-approved spice rub that prevents sticking.
How long to marinate shrimp?
For this bowl, no marination needed – our dry rub provides instant flavor. If marinating, limit to 15-30 minutes max (acid in marinades can “cook” the shrimp texture).
Is grilled shrimp good leftover?
Yes! Store cooked shrimp separately for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet – perfect for next-day salads or tacos. The corn salsa stays fresh for 2 days.
What goes well with grilled shrimp?
Beyond our bowl ingredients, try:
Grains: Quinoa, farro
Veggies: Zucchini, bell peppers
Sauces: Chimichurri, sriracha mayo
Toppings: Pickled onions, toasted nuts
Is grilled shrimp healthy?
Absolutely! A 3oz serving has:
20g lean protein
Only 84 calories
Omega-3 fatty acids
Low mercury risk (vs. larger fish)
Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled & deveined
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 cup corn kernels (grilled if possible)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tsp honey
- 2 cups cooked rice or greens
Instructions
- Pat shrimp dry, toss with oil and spices
- Grill shrimp 2-3 minutes per side on high heat
- Combine corn, tomatoes, onion, and cilantro for salsa
- Blend yogurt, lime juice, garlic and honey for sauce
- Assemble bowls with rice, shrimp, salsa, avocado and sauce
Notes
Final Thoughts: Your New Go-To Healthy Dinner!
There you have it—the ultimate grilled shrimp bowl that proves healthy eating doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or spending hours in the kitchen. In just 20 minutes, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal packed with:
✔ Lean protein from perfectly grilled shrimp
✔ Healthy fats from creamy avocado
✔ Fresh crunch from vibrant corn salsa
✔ Zesty brightness from that irresistible sauce
Whether you’re meal prepping for the week, need a quick dinner solution, or want to impress guests without stress, this bowl delivers every time.
Chef’s Pro Tip: Double the sauce recipe—it’s amazing on tacos, salads, or as a veggie dip!
Made this recipe? Contact me on [email protected] —I love seeing your creations! Now go enjoy your delicious, nutritious masterpiece. Happy cooking!