If you’re on the hunt for your next crowd-pleasing meal, you have to try this vibrant Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce. The sweet char of grilled shrimp, crisp veggies, and the irresistible combo of fresh corn salsa and luscious, garlicky sauce come together for the ultimate bowl. It’s colorful, effortlessly fresh, and bound to become a staple at your table. Whether you’re jazzing up a weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this dish delivers bite after bite of bold flavor and creamy goodness—plus, it’s as fun to make as it is to eat!

Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This bowl might look restaurant-worthy, but the ingredient list is wonderfully simple. Each element plays a role—whether it’s lending a smoky note, a burst of color, or that creamy finish that brings everything together. Here’s what you’ll need for your Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce masterwork:

Shrimp: Plump, peeled large shrimp form the protein base, soaking up spices and grilling perfectly in just minutes.
Olive oil: Helps the seasoning stick to the shrimp while also keeping them juicy over high heat.
Paprika: Adds beautiful color and a sweet-smoky undertone to the shrimp.
Garlic powder: Essential for that savory punch in both shrimp and sauce.
Salt & black pepper: Brings everything into delicious balance and sharpens flavors.
Cayenne pepper (optional): A touch of heat if you like things a little spicier.
Frozen corn: Quick, sweet, and the heart of the corn salsa—no need to fire up the grill for this shortcut!
Red onion: Crunchy, tangy, and adds just the right zip to the salsa.
Cilantro: Fresh and fragrant, this herb features in both the salsa and sauce for that signature flavor.
Jalapeño (optional): For a little kick that keeps the salsa interesting.
Lime: Its juice lifts the salsa and balances the creamy elements perfectly.
Mayonnaise: Forms the base of the creamy garlic sauce—thick, rich, and smooth.
Sour cream: Brings a tangy note and helps soften the garlic.
Lemon juice: Just a splash brightens up the garlic sauce and keeps things light.
Garlic: Freshly minced for max flavor—this is key for the sauce.
Avocado: Adds creamy, buttery slices (or mash) that make the bowl extra satisfying.
Sesame seeds: A sprinkle for subtle crunch and a hint of nutty flavor.
Green onions: Chopped on top for freshness and color.

How to Make Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce

Step 1: Marinate and Season the Shrimp

Start by tossing your peeled shrimp with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne if you like the heat. This quick marinade infuses the shrimp with tons of flavor while you prep the toppings. Even ten minutes lets those smoky-sweet notes soak in!

Step 2: Grill (or Sauté) the Shrimp

Thread the seasoned shrimp onto skewers or lay them directly on a hot grill pan. Cook for about 2–3 minutes per side, just until they turn opaque and curl. If you’re stuck inside, a stovetop skillet works too, delivering that perfect char. Set the shrimp aside while you move on—try not to sneak too many “taste tests!”

Step 3: Prepare the Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce

For the corn salsa, mix your thawed corn, diced red onion, chopped cilantro, jalapeño if using, lime juice, and a good pinch of salt in a bowl. Stir it all together so the bright, tangy flavors can meld. Then, for the creamy garlic sauce, whisk together mayo, sour cream, lemon juice, minced garlic, cilantro, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. Both components bring zesty freshness to your bowl and give it that special Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce magic.

Step 4: Slice the Avocado and Prep Toppings

Slice—or mash, if you prefer—a ripe avocado, giving each bowl a beautiful creamy layer. Gather your sesame seeds and chopped green onions, which will finish the dish with extra crunch and a splash of color.

Step 5: Assemble Your Bowls

Layer everything up! Start with a scoop of corn salsa, pile high with hot shrimp, tuck in the avocado, drizzle with generous swirls of creamy garlic sauce, then crown with sesame seeds and green onions. Every bite combines sweet, smoky, zesty, and creamy flavors that make Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce unforgettable.

How to Serve Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce

Garnishes

This bowl just wouldn’t be the same without its beautiful finishing touches. Try a sprinkle of sesame seeds and a scattering of chopped green onions for the ultimate pop of flavor and crunch. A little extra cilantro doesn’t hurt, either—set it out so everyone can make their bowl their own.

Side Dishes

While each Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce is a meal on its own, you can turn dinner into a feast with a simple lime rice, tortilla chips for scooping, or a light green salad. If you want even more color, a quick red cabbage slaw is always welcome.

Creative Ways to Present

This recipe is fantastic for build-your-own meals. Set out all the components, and let friends and family assemble customized bowls—with extra Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce on the side, of course! Or, layer the shrimp and toppings into lettuce leaves for a fun, hand-held option at parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you manage to have any leftovers, keep the corn salsa and creamy garlic sauce in sealed containers in the fridge. The salsa will stay bright and delicious for up to two days, while the sauce lasts up to four days—just give them a quick stir before serving.

Freezing

Shrimp freeze beautifully, but the fresh salsa and creamy garlic sauce are best enjoyed fresh. You can freeze cooked shrimp separately in an airtight container for up to two months. Thaw in the fridge overnight when you’re ready for your next bowl.

Reheating

Gently reheat the shrimp in a skillet over low heat just until warmed through. The salsa and sauce should be served cold or at room temperature, so you can assemble your bowl in minutes without worrying about lengthy cook times.

FAQs

Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen?

Absolutely! Grill or boil an ear of corn, then slice off the kernels to use in your Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce for an extra hit of sweetness and texture.

What if I don’t have a grill?

No grill? No problem! Sauté the shrimp in a hot skillet until they’re cooked through—you’ll still get plenty of charred flavor and golden edges.

Is there a lighter version of the creamy garlic sauce?

You can swap the mayo and sour cream for Greek yogurt if you want a lighter Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce, keeping things creamy but with a tangy twist.

How can I make this dish vegan?

Replace the shrimp with grilled tofu or tempeh, use a vegan mayo and dairy-free sour cream for the sauce, and you’ll have a delicious, plant-based version of this bowl that still highlights the Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce.

Can I prep any components in advance?

Yes—make the creamy garlic sauce and the corn salsa up to a day ahead to let the flavors meld. You can also marinate the shrimp in advance, making dinnertime even easier.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you’ll give this Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce a try. The fresh flavors, crunchy toppings, and that magical creamy finish never disappoint. It’s one of those dishes that feels special yet comes together quickly—a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Enjoy every bite!

Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 17 reviews

Author: anna
Total Time: 26 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

This recipe for a Grilled Shrimp Bowl features succulent shrimp seasoned with a blend of spices, served with a refreshing corn salsa, creamy garlic sauce, and avocado slices. It’s a delightful and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a satisfying meal.

Instructions

Prepare the Shrimp: In a bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Marinate for 15 minutes.
Make the Corn Salsa: Combine corn, red onion, cilantro, jalapeño, lime juice, and salt in a bowl. Mix well and set aside.
Prepare the Creamy Garlic Sauce: In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, sour cream, cilantro, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
Grill the Shrimp: Grill marinated shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until cooked through.
Assemble the Bowl: In individual bowls, layer avocado slices, grilled shrimp, corn salsa, and drizzle with creamy garlic sauce. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 6 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Grilling
Cuisine: American