Get ready to fall in love with every bite of this vibrant Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce. This lively bowl brings together plump, smoky shrimp, tangy-sweet corn salsa, and a lusciously smooth creamy garlic sauce that ties everything together. Every component bursts with color and flavor, making each mouthful a delightful adventure. Whether you’re serving this for a quick weeknight dinner or impressing friends at a summer gathering, this Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce combo will become your new kitchen obsession in no time.

Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this bowl is handpicked to play a starring role. Simple, fresh staples combine to deliver bold flavors, gorgeous textures, and Instagram-worthy colors—there’s nothing extra, just everything you need for the most irresistible Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce experience.

Shrimp (1 lb., large, peeled & deveined): Quick to cook and soaks up seasonings beautifully for a juicy, flavor-packed bite.
Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Adds a lush base for your seasonings and helps the shrimp sizzle to perfection on the grill.
Paprika (1 teaspoon): Brings warm, smoky undertones that make your shrimp extra irresistible.
Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Delivers mellow garlic goodness to deepen the flavor.
Salt & black pepper (1/4 teaspoon each): Essential seasoning for bringing every flavor to life.
Cayenne pepper (1/4 teaspoon, optional): Adds a little spicy kick—add as much or as little as you like!
Frozen corn (1 cup, thawed): Sweet, juicy corn is the star of the Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce dish.
Red onion (1/2 cup, diced): Pops of color and gentle onion bite meld perfectly in the salsa.
Cilantro (1/4 cup + 1 tablespoon, chopped): Fresh and fragrant, it brightens both salsa and sauce.
Jalapeño (1, seeded & minced, optional): For those who love a touch of gentle heat.
Lime (1, juiced): Gives the salsa its lively, tangy sparkle.
Mayonnaise (1/2 cup): The creamy base for your dreamy garlic sauce.
Sour cream (1/4 cup): Adds a luxurious tang that makes the sauce next-level delicious.
Lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Its brightness balances the richness of the Creamy Garlic Sauce.
Garlic (1 clove, minced): The sauce’s namesake—full of flavor and aroma.
Avocado (1, sliced or mashed): Adds buttery, cooling creaminess to every bite.
Sesame seeds: A sprinkling for texture and a hint of nutty crunch.
Green onions (chopped): The perfect lift for the final flourish of flavor and color.

How to Make Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce

Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp

In a mixing bowl, combine the shrimp with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne if you’re feeling a little feisty. Toss until every shrimp is gleaming with all that aromatic seasoning. This step not only gives your shrimp big, bold flavor, but it also helps keep them juicy when grilled.

Step 2: Prepare the Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce Components

In a second bowl, build the bright, zippy corn salsa. Mix together the thawed corn, diced red onion, cilantro, jalapeño (if you like heat), a squeeze of lime, and a pinch of salt. Give everything a gentle toss—this salsa is the definition of summery freshness, and it’s truly the perfect match for the Creamy Garlic Sauce still to come.

Step 3: Grill the Shrimp

Heat your grill (or a grill pan) to medium. Lay the shrimp onto the hot surface and cook for about 2 to 3 minutes per side—just until they curl and go from translucent to opaque. The smoky char of grilled shrimp brings an unbeatable depth to your Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce bowl!

Step 4: Whisk Up the Creamy Garlic Sauce

Time to make that silky, dreamy sauce! In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, cilantro, lemon juice, minced garlic, and a pinch each of salt and black pepper. This takes only seconds but transforms your bowls with a cool, tangy, garlicky drizzle that you’ll want on everything.

Step 5: Assemble Your Bowls

Divide the vibrant corn salsa among your bowls, then top with the juicy grilled shrimp. Arrange sliced or mashed avocado on the side, then go wild with the Creamy Garlic Sauce—drizzle it over the top so that every bite is saucy, tangy, and garlicky. Finish with sesame seeds and a generous scattering of green onions. Voila! Your Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce bowl is ready to wow.

How to Serve Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce

Garnishes

Don’t hold back with garnishes! Besides sesame seeds and green onions, you could add extra cilantro, a squeeze more lime, or a dusting of smoked paprika over your shrimp. These little touches heighten both the flavor and the visual appeal, transforming your Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce bowl from everyday to absolutely extraordinary.

Side Dishes

This dish is beautifully satisfying on its own, but if you want to round out your meal, consider serving it with fluffy cilantro-lime rice, crisp tortilla chips, or grilled veggies on the side. Even some warm, pillowy flatbread makes a great base for scooping up every last drop of Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Try piling your bowl ingredients onto tacos for a handheld feast, or serve smaller portions in lettuce cups for a fresh, fuss-free appetizer. Hosting a party? Set up a DIY bowl bar and let guests build their own custom creations with extra Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce on the side.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra, store each bowl component separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The shrimp and sauce are best enjoyed within 2–3 days, while the corn salsa will stay fresh for up to 3 days. This keeps everything tasting bright, and avoids sogginess.

Freezing

While the shrimp themselves freeze well (let them cool first, then seal airtight), the corn salsa and creamy garlic sauce are best enjoyed fresh. Freezing the salsa or sauce can change their texture, so if you plan to prep ahead, only freeze the cooked shrimp.

Reheating

To warm up leftovers, gently reheat the shrimp in a skillet over low heat for a couple of minutes until just heated through—overcooking can make them tough. Spoon the salsa and sauce over after reheating, and assemble your bowl fresh for the best Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce experience.

FAQs

Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen?

Absolutely! Fresh corn, when in season, is a treat. Just slice off the kernels, give them a quick sauté in a hot skillet, and let them cool before mixing into your salsa for even more summery flavor.

What else can I use the Creamy Garlic Sauce for?

This Creamy Garlic Sauce is incredibly versatile! Try it as a dip for roasted veggies or fries, a spread on sandwiches, or even as a zesty salad dressing—it’s guaranteed to become your go-to condiment.

What’s the best way to grill shrimp if I don’t have an outdoor grill?

No grill? No problem! A grill pan on the stovetop works just as well. You could also use a broiler; just keep an eye on them since shrimp cook fast.

Can I make the Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce ahead of time?

Definitely! Both the corn salsa and the creamy sauce can be made a day in advance—just cover them well in the fridge. This actually helps the flavors meld, so your bowl will taste even more vibrant.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, the Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce contains no gluten ingredients, making it a wonderful option for anyone following a gluten-free lifestyle.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a new mealtime obsession, this Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce is destined to win your heart. Whether you crave freshness, bold flavors, or something that just looks gorgeous on the table, this bowl checks all the boxes. Grab your ingredients, fire up the grill, and get ready to savor the vibrant, delicious magic of Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce!