Grilled Shrimp Avocado Corn Salsa

This grilled shrimp avocado corn salsa bowl is fresh, vibrant, and perfectly balanced. Juicy grilled shrimp meet sweet corn salsa, creamy avocado, and a tangy, herb-forward sauce for a satisfying yet light meal. It’s a composed bowl that delivers bold flavor, texture contrast, and a modern, wholesome feel.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bright, Fresh Flavors – Citrus, herbs, and grilled shrimp create a lively, refreshing taste profile.
Quick & Efficient – Ready in just 30 minutes from start to finish.
Naturally Gluten-Free – Made with whole, gluten-free ingredients.
Perfectly Balanced Bowl – Combines protein, healthy fats, and carbs in one meal.
Customizable Heat Level – Easily adjust spice with cayenne or jalapeño.
Restaurant-Style at Home – Looks impressive while remaining easy to prepare.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Shrimp

454 g large shrimp, peeled and deveined – Lean protein that grills quickly and absorbs seasoning well.
15 ml olive oil – Helps spices adhere and prevents sticking.
1 teaspoon paprika – Adds mild smokiness and color.
½ teaspoon garlic powder – Provides savory depth without burning.
¼ teaspoon salt – Enhances natural shrimp flavor.
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper – Adds subtle heat.
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional) – Boosts spice level if desired.

Corn Salsa

160 g frozen corn, thawed – Sweet, crisp contrast to the shrimp.
80 g diced red onion – Adds sharpness and crunch.
10 g chopped fresh cilantro – Brings freshness and herbal notes.
1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional) – Adds controlled heat.
Juice of 1 lime – Brightens and balances sweetness.
Salt, to taste – Sharpens overall flavor.

Creamy Sauce

120 ml mayonnaise – Forms a rich, smooth base.
60 ml sour cream – Adds tang and lightness.
10 g chopped fresh cilantro – Reinforces freshness.
15 ml lemon juice – Cuts through richness with acidity.
1 clove garlic, minced – Adds aromatic depth.
¼ teaspoon salt – Balances the sauce.
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper – Adds gentle warmth.

Bowl Assembly

1 avocado, sliced – Adds creaminess and healthy fats.
Steamed rice, as needed – Serves as the hearty base.
Sesame seeds – Add subtle nuttiness and texture.
Chopped green onions – Finish with freshness and color.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Season the Shrimp – In a bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne until evenly coated.
Prepare the Corn Salsa – Gently mix corn, red onion, cilantro, jalapeño, lime juice, and salt; set aside to allow flavors to meld.
Grill the Shrimp – Preheat grill or grill pan to medium heat and cook shrimp 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
Make the Creamy Sauce – Whisk mayonnaise, sour cream, cilantro, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Assemble the Bowls – Add rice to bowls, top with shrimp, corn salsa, and avocado slices.
Finish & Garnish – Drizzle with sauce and sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Don’t Overcook Shrimp – Remove immediately once opaque to keep them juicy.
Let Salsa Rest – A few minutes helps flavors blend naturally.
Grill Pan Alternative – Works perfectly indoors with proper heat.
Adjust Sauce Consistency – Thin with a splash of water or lemon juice if needed.
Season in Layers – Light seasoning at each stage ensures balance.

Nutritional Information

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 composed bowls
Calories: ~520 per serving (estimated; varies by rice and sauce portions)

Perfect Pairings

Iced Herbal Tea or Sparkling Water – Refreshing and light.
Simple Cucumber Salad – Adds crisp contrast.
Grilled Flatbread – Optional side for extra texture.
Fresh Fruit – Complements the savory-spicy profile.

Ideal Occasions

Weeknight Dinners – Fast, nutritious, and satisfying.
Summer Meals – Light yet filling with grilled flavors.
Healthy Lunch Bowls – Balanced and energizing.
Casual Entertaining – Visually appealing and customizable.

Storage & Serving Tips

Refrigeration – Store components separately for up to 2 days.
Reheating – Gently reheat shrimp and rice; keep sauce cold.
Meal Prep Friendly – Assemble just before serving for best texture.
Serving Temperature – Best served warm shrimp with cool salsa and sauce.

Creative Variations to Try

Low-Carb Version – Swap rice for cauliflower rice.
Spicy Southwest – Add chipotle powder or smoked paprika.
Dairy-Free Sauce – Use plant-based mayo and yogurt.
Taco-Style Bowl – Add black beans and shredded lettuce.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Dry Shrimp – Reduce grill time and ensure medium heat.
Bland Salsa – Add more lime juice or salt gradually.
Sauce Too Thick – Thin with lemon juice or water.
Overpowering Heat – Omit cayenne and jalapeño for a milder bowl.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe balances grilled heat with fresh, cooling elements. Shrimp cook quickly for maximum tenderness, while corn salsa provides sweetness and acidity. The creamy sauce ties everything together without overpowering the main ingredients. At roughly 520 calories per serving, it offers a complete, satisfying meal with protein, healthy fats, and vibrant flavor.

Final Thoughts

Grilled shrimp avocado corn salsa bowls are fresh, flavorful, and endlessly adaptable. They deliver restaurant-quality presentation with approachable technique and wholesome ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a light dinner, a nourishing lunch, or a colorful summer dish, this recipe is a reliable go-to that feels as good as it tastes. 🦐🥑🌽