Think of all your summer favorites in one bite: juicy shrimp fresh off the grill, sweet bursts of corn, creamy avocado, and a swirly drizzle of zesty sauce. That’s exactly what you get with this Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce. Each component brings its own irresistible flair, and together, they create a bowl that’s colorful, vibrant, and totally crave-worthy. Whether you’re planning a quick family dinner or want to impress friends at your next gathering, this bowl is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser loaded with texture, tang, and plenty of flavor.

Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe is how a handful of simple, everyday ingredients come together to make something so fresh and satisfying. Each addition brings its own personality to the bowl, making every bite balanced and exciting.

Shrimp: Large shrimp carry smoky, charred flavor and stay juicy on the grill.
Olive oil: Helps create the base for a luscious marinade that keeps the shrimp tender.
Smoked paprika: Adds a subtle earthiness and gorgeous color to the shrimp.
Cumin: This spice brings a warm, toasty aroma that perfectly complements seafood.
Chili powder: For just a touch of heat and rich depth in the marinade.
Garlic powder: A punch of savory, garlicky goodness for both marinade and sauce.
Limes: The juice brightens up every part of the bowl, from marinade to salsa and sauce.
Salt & pepper: Enhances all the fresh flavors throughout the recipe.
Cilantro: Bright and herby, it freshens up every layer from salsa to topping.
Corn: Juicy, sweet kernels provide delicious crunch in the salsa.
Red bell pepper: Brings crispness and a touch of sweetness to the salsa.
Green onions: These offer a gentle bite and pretty pop of green in the salsa.
Avocados: Perfectly ripe avocados form the dreamy, creamy mash.
Mayonnaise or Greek yogurt: Forms the creamy base for the tangy sauce—so you can choose what you love most.
Hot sauce (optional): Kick up the sauce’s flavor as much (or as little) as you like.
Cooked rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice: The neutral, cozy base that soaks up all those amazing toppings.

How to Make Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce

Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp

Start by creating that marinade magic! In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Toss the peeled and deveined shrimp right in, coating them fully. Let them soak up all that flavor for at least 15 to 20 minutes—this makes every bite of your Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce pop with smoky, citrusy goodness.

Step 2: Prepare the Corn Salsa

Meanwhile, grab another bowl and mix together the corn, diced bell pepper, green onions, chopped cilantro, fresh lime juice, and a pinch of salt. This salsa is all about fresh, vibrant crunch and color. Pop it in the fridge while you continue with the recipe, giving the flavors a chance to meld together beautifully.

Step 3: Mash the Avocado

Scoop out your perfectly ripe avocados and place them in a bowl. Add lime juice, salt, and pepper, then mash everything together. Keep it creamy with a few chunky bits—this adds gorgeous texture to your bowl. It’s like guacamole, but even simpler!

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

In a small bowl, combine the mayo (or Greek yogurt), lime juice, hot sauce (if using), garlic powder, smoked paprika, chopped cilantro, and salt. Whisk it till smooth, and thin it with a splash of water if you’d like a drizzle-worthy consistency. This sauce brings zing, creaminess, and an herby finish to your Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce.

Step 5: Grill the Shrimp

Heat your grill or grill pan over medium-high. Thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers for easy flipping (or place them individually). Grill each side for 2 to 3 minutes, just until they turn pink and get lightly charred. Be careful not to overcook—shrimp go from tender to rubbery in the blink of an eye!

Step 6: Assemble the Bowl

It’s assembly time! Start by layering your favorite base of cooked rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice into each bowl. Top with a generous spoonful of corn salsa, a scoop of avocado mash, and a heap of grilled shrimp. Finish it all off with a fabulous drizzle of creamy sauce and a scattering of fresh cilantro. Right there is your Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce—so inviting and colorful, you won’t be able to resist.

How to Serve Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce

Garnishes

A handful of chopped fresh cilantro, an extra squirt of lime, and a little sprinkle of flaky sea salt make everything shine. You can even toss on a few thinly sliced jalapeños for a pretty flash of green and an extra kick, if you like it spicy!

Side Dishes

Since the Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce is so satisfyingly complete on its own, sides are totally optional—but fabulous if you’re feeding a crowd. Crunchy tortilla chips or warm grilled pita slices are perfect for scooping up any extra salsa or avocado mash. A lightly dressed slaw or Mexican-inspired street corn would also be right at home here.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn this bowl into a beautiful platter for a build-your-own dinner party: set out each component in colorful bowls and let everyone assemble their own creations. For meal prep, layer rice, salsa, shrimp, and avocado mash in portable containers, keeping the sauce on the side to drizzle just before serving. If you’re feeling fancy, serve the shrimp right on the skewers across the top of each bowl for a striking, restaurant-worthy finish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover components of your Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce in individual airtight containers in the fridge. The shrimp, salsa, and sauce will all keep well for up to 2 days, though the avocado mash is best eaten fresh since it can discolor.

Freezing

It’s best not to freeze the assembled bowls, but you can freeze cooked shrimp by itself in a tightly sealed bag for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy again, simply thaw overnight in the fridge. Fresh corn salsa and avocado mash aren’t freezer friendly, but the sauce can be stored in the freezer for up to a month.

Reheating

Reheat the shrimp gently, either in the microwave for 30 seconds (covered with a damp paper towel to keep them moist) or quickly on a hot skillet just until warmed through. The other components are best enjoyed cold or at room temperature for maximum flavor and freshness.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for the Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce?

Absolutely! Just make sure you thaw and pat your shrimp dry before marinating. This ensures your shrimp get those gorgeous grill marks and really soak up the marinade flavors.

What can I substitute for cilantro if I’m not a fan?

If cilantro isn’t your thing, you can swap it out for fresh parsley or even chopped green onions for a slightly different but equally fresh pop of flavor in your bowl.

How spicy is the creamy sauce?

The sauce is as spicy as you’d like! The hot sauce is optional, so start with a little and taste as you go. For a totally mild version, just omit the hot sauce altogether and enjoy a tangy, zesty drizzle.

What’s the best base for this shrimp bowl?

Go with what you love! Classic white or brown rice are cozy and soak up the flavors well, but quinoa adds protein and a nutty undertone, while cauliflower rice is a great lighter, gluten-free option. Each one creates a slightly different—and totally delicious—version of the Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce.

Do I have to grill the shrimp or can I use another cooking method?

If you don’t have a grill or grill pan, you can totally cook the shrimp under the broiler or in a hot skillet. You won’t get the same smoky char, but the flavors will still be delicious and vibrant.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something magical about a bowl that’s brimming with smoky shrimp, creamy avocado, crunchy corn salsa, and a luscious swirl of sauce. Give this Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce a try—whether you’re a seafood lover or just want something fresh and exciting for dinner, this vibrant bowl never disappoints!