Get ready to dive into a savory journey with my Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado and Corn Salsa Delight! This fresh and vibrant dish combines juicy shrimp, creamy avocado, and sweet corn in one bowl. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend feast, each bite bursts with flavor. Follow my easy steps and tips to impress your family and friends with this healthy, delicious meal they’ll keep asking for!
Ingredients
Detailed Ingredient List
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup cooked quinoa (or rice)
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1 cup sweet corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
– 1 small red onion, finely chopped
– 1 medium tomato, diced
– 1 jalapeño, deseeded and minced (optional)
– 2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
For this grilled shrimp bowl, I focus on fresh and vibrant flavors. The shrimp gives a lovely protein base. You want large shrimp for this dish; they grill perfectly and stay juicy.
The olive oil, smoked paprika, and garlic powder create a tasty marinade. These bring out the shrimp’s natural sweetness. I add salt and pepper to balance the flavors.
Next, we layer fresh vegetables. The avocado adds creaminess, while sweet corn brings a touch of crunch. Red onion and diced tomato give a refreshing lift. If you like some heat, add jalapeño for a spicy kick.
I like to use quinoa or rice as a base. Both are great at soaking up flavors. Quinoa packs a nice protein punch, while rice is soft and comforting.
Finally, cilantro and lime juice brighten the dish. These are key for a fresh finish. Together, these ingredients create a delightful bowl that is colorful and full of flavor. For the full recipe, check out the instructions later.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Shrimp
To make the shrimp tasty, you need to marinate it first. In a bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp to this mix. Toss the shrimp well, so it gets coated. Let it marinate for 15 to 20 minutes. This time helps the flavors soak in and makes the shrimp juicy.
Making the Avocado and Corn Salsa
For the salsa, you will need:
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1 cup sweet corn (you can use fresh, frozen, or canned)
– 1 small red onion, finely chopped
– 1 medium tomato, diced
– 1 jalapeño, deseeded and minced (optional)
– 2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
In a mixing bowl, combine the diced avocado, sweet corn, red onion, tomato, jalapeño (if using), cilantro, and lime juice. Gently toss all the ingredients together. Be careful not to mash the avocado. Add salt and pepper to taste. Set the salsa aside to let the flavors blend.
Cooking the Shrimp
When you are ready to grill, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once it is hot, add the marinated shrimp. Grill the shrimp for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side. You know the shrimp is done when it turns pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from heat and keep it warm.
Assembling the Bowl
Now it is time to build your bowl. Start with a base of cooked quinoa or rice. Layer it nicely in your serving bowl. Next, add the grilled shrimp on top. Then, spoon a generous amount of the avocado and corn salsa over the shrimp. For a nice touch, garnish with extra cilantro and lime wedges. This makes the bowl look colorful and inviting.
For the full recipe, refer to the instructions above. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Grilled Shrimp
To marinate shrimp well, use the right mix. I like to combine olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Coat the shrimp evenly and let them rest for 15 to 20 minutes. This helps them soak up flavors.
For perfect grill marks, preheat your grill or grill pan. Medium-high heat works best. Place the marinated shrimp on the grill. Cook them for 2 to 3 minutes on each side. Look for a pink color and opaque texture. This means they are done.
Enhancing the Corn Salsa
For the corn salsa, use a mix of fresh and colorful veggies. I recommend ripe avocado, sweet corn, red onion, and tomato. If you like a bit of heat, add minced jalapeño.
Adjust the taste with lime juice, salt, and pepper. Taste as you mix. You can always add more seasoning if needed. A good balance makes the salsa shine.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your grilled shrimp bowl with side dishes like black beans or a crisp green salad. This adds variety and texture.
For a beautiful bowl, layer your ingredients. Start with quinoa or rice at the bottom. Add the grilled shrimp and top with a generous spoonful of corn salsa. Garnish with fresh cilantro or lime wedges for a pop of color.
For the full recipe, check out the section above. Enjoy your cooking journey!
Variations
Protein Alternatives
You can swap shrimp for chicken or tofu. Chicken works well with the same marinade. Just make sure to cook it longer. Grill chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side. If you choose tofu, press it to remove excess water. Slice it into cubes and marinate for 20 minutes. Grill tofu for about 3-4 minutes on each side. Both options keep the dish tasty and fun!
Salsa Variations
Salsa can take many forms. You can add mango for a sweet twist. Or, try roasted red peppers for a smoky flavor. Fresh herbs like basil can also brighten the dish. If you like heat, add more jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce. Each change brings a new taste to your bowl!
Grain Alternatives
You can use different grains or bases. Quinoa adds protein and fiber. Rice is a classic choice, easy to find. For a lighter option, try lettuce wraps. They keep the meal fresh and crunchy. Think about your needs: quinoa has more protein, while lettuce is low in carbs. Choose what fits your diet best!
Find the full recipe to explore more delicious ideas!
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To keep your grilled shrimp bowl fresh, place leftovers in a cool spot. Use airtight containers to keep air out. Glass or plastic containers work well. Make sure to separate the shrimp from the salsa to keep flavors intact. Store in the fridge for up to three days.
Reheating Tips
When reheating shrimp, use a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of olive oil to prevent sticking. For the salsa, you can enjoy it cold or heat it gently in the microwave. This keeps the flavors bright and fresh. Aim for even heating to maintain the best taste and texture.
Freezing Guidelines
You can freeze grilled shrimp bowls. However, the texture may change after thawing. To freeze, place the shrimp and salsa in separate containers. Label each with the date. When you are ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat on the stove for best results. Enjoy the full recipe for a delicious meal any day!
FAQs
How do I know when shrimp is fully cooked?
Shrimp cook quickly. You can tell they are done when they turn pink and opaque. They should curl into a “C” shape. If they remain gray or become hard and tight, they are overcooked. Always check the color and texture to ensure perfect shrimp.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this dish in advance. Marinate the shrimp and store it in the fridge. You can also make the salsa ahead of time. Just keep the salsa in an airtight container. This way, you save time when you are ready to eat.
What can I substitute for lime juice?
If you run out of lime juice, you can use lemon juice or vinegar. Both options add a nice tang. Try apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar for a different taste. These alternatives keep your dish bright and flavorful.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This recipe is great for meal prep. You can pack the shrimp and salsa in separate containers. Just add quinoa or rice when you are ready to eat. This keeps everything fresh and tasty. For the full recipe, check above.
In this article, we explored a vibrant shrimp bowl recipe, from the perfect marinade to a tasty avocado corn salsa. You learned how to grill shrimp for the best flavor and presented your dish beautifully. I also shared tips on storage and reheating to keep your leftovers fresh.
Experimenting with different proteins and flavors lets you make this dish your own. Enjoy making this recipe, and feel free to get creative with it!
