Bold Grilled Barbecue Shrimp and Corn Avocado Salad Bowls

Posted on April 24, 2025 · By Lyndy

the shrimp is being drizzled with dressing

Nothing says summer like the smoky char of barbecue shrimp paired with sweet corn and creamy avocado. These Grilled Barbecue Shrimp and Corn Avocado Salad Bowls are the ultimate healthy grilling meal—fresh, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re planning a cookout, lunch al fresco, or just want a light yet protein-packed dinner, this vibrant bowl is the perfect answer.

Packed with textures and layered with taste, this shrimp bowl brings together everything we love: tender grilled shrimp, sweet corn salsa, ripe avocado, and a zesty dressing. If you’re on the hunt for healthy bowls that deliver both nutrition and taste, you’ve just found a new favorite.

Why These Healthy Grilling Bowls Are a Must-Try

This dish is more than just beautiful—it’s loaded with health-conscious ingredients and built for ease. Whether you’re meal prepping or serving guests, these shrimp corn bowls check every box:

  • High protein and naturally gluten-free
  • Full of fiber, healthy fats, and antioxidants
  • Great for weeknight dinners or meal prep
  • Customizable with steak and shrimp or creamy garlic sauce

It’s one of the most complete and balanced healthy grilling recipes you can make—flavor-forward and full of color.

Ingredients for Grilled Shrimp Bowl With Avocado Corn Salsa

This recipe makes 4 hearty bowls.

For the Barbecue Shrimp:

  • 500g (1 lb) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tablespoons barbecue sauce (your favorite kind)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Avocado Corn Salsa:

  • 1 cup fresh or grilled corn kernels (about 2 ears of corn)
  • 1 ripe avocado, diced
  • ½ red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 small tomato, diced
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Salad Bowls:

  • 4 cups cooked brown rice or quinoa
  • 2 cups chopped romaine or baby spinach
  • Optional toppings: black beans, pickled red onions, shredded cheese

For the Dressing:

  • 3 tablespoons Greek yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
  • Salt to taste

Essential Kitchen Tools for Healthy Bowls

To make this recipe easy and stress-free, gather the following:

  • Grill or grill pan
  • Skewers (if using a grill)
  • Mixing bowls
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Tongs or spatula
  • Salad bowls or meal prep containers

Step-by-Step: How to Make Grilled Barbecue Shrimp and Corn Salad Bowls

Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp
In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, barbecue sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Let sit for 15 minutes while you prepare the rest.

Step 2: Grill the Corn and Shrimp
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill the corn (if using fresh) until charred, about 8-10 minutes, rotating frequently. Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side or until opaque and slightly charred. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Avocado Corn Salsa
Cut the corn kernels off the cob. Combine them with avocado, onion, tomato, lime juice, cilantro, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix gently and set aside.

Step 4: Prepare the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, lime juice, garlic powder, honey, and salt. Adjust flavor to taste.

Step 5: Assemble the Bowls
In each bowl, start with a layer of rice or quinoa, then add a handful of greens. Top with grilled shrimp, a scoop of avocado corn salsa, and a drizzle of the creamy dressing. Finish with any optional toppings you like.

Tips for Perfectly Grilled Shrimp and Creamy Corn Salsa

  • Use jumbo shrimp for best grilling results—they stay juicy and don’t overcook easily.
  • Skewer shrimp for easier flipping on the grill.
  • Grill corn in the husk for extra smoky flavor, or use frozen corn for convenience.
  • Ripe avocado matters—it should be just soft enough to dice without mashing.
  • Balance the lime and seasoning in the salsa for brightness and flavor.

Flavorful Variations: From Steak and Shrimp to Extra Toppings

This recipe is endlessly adaptable:

Steak and Shrimp Combo:
Grill flank steak or sirloin alongside the shrimp and slice thin for surf and turf-style bowls.

Vegan Option:
Swap shrimp for grilled tofu or chickpeas and use dairy-free yogurt in the dressing.

Creamy Garlic Sauce Twist:
Add minced garlic to the dressing or blend yogurt with roasted garlic for a creamy garlic sauce alternative.

Add More Color:
Top with roasted bell peppers, radishes, or shredded red cabbage for crunch and visual appeal.

Avocado Corn Salsa: The Secret to a Fresh and Zesty Bowl

The star of this bowl isn’t just the shrimp—it’s the avocado corn salsa. Bright, tangy, and creamy, this salsa brings balance to every bite.

  • Use grilled corn for smoky sweetness.
  • Add diced jalapeño for heat.
  • Chill before serving to let the flavors develop.

This salsa also makes a great dip or taco topping—double the batch and save some!

Common Mistakes to Avoid With Grilled Shrimp Bowls

  • Overcooking the shrimp: They turn rubbery fast, so watch them closely.
  • Underdressing the bowl: The sauce ties everything together—don’t skip it!
  • Skipping seasoning: Taste as you go, especially the salsa and dressing.
  • Using underripe avocados: They’ll be hard and flavorless.

How to Serve and Present Your Shrimp Corn Bowl Beautifully

  • Use shallow wide bowls for presentation.
  • Drizzle the dressing over the top instead of mixing it all in.
  • Garnish with lime wedges and fresh cilantro.
  • For parties, set up a build-your-own bowl station!

These bowls are Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers the Right Way

To Store:
Store each component separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To Reheat:
Warm the rice and shrimp gently in the microwave. Do not reheat the salsa—add it fresh after warming the base.

Meal Prep Tip:
Pack rice, greens, and shrimp together; keep the salsa and dressing in separate containers for freshness.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving – 1 Bowl)

  • Calories: 410 kcal
  • Sugar: 6 g
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Carbohydrates: 32 g
  • Fiber: 6 g
  • Protein: 30 g

Nutrition values are approximate and may vary depending on ingredients used.

Pairing Ideas: What to Serve With Corn Avocado Shrimp Bowls

  • Fresh fruit salad with melon and mint
  • A side of grilled sweet potatoes or plantains
  • Chilled cucumber and tomato salad
  • Sparkling water with lime or a tropical smoothie

Keep it light, fresh, and hydrating for the perfect outdoor meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Just thaw completely and pat dry before marinating.

What’s the best rice for this bowl?
Brown rice or quinoa for extra fiber, but white rice works too.

How do I grill without a grill?
Use a stovetop grill pan or a cast iron skillet for similar results.

Can I prep these bowls ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble just before serving for the best texture.

Final Thoughts on These Healthy Grilled Shrimp Bowls

These Grilled Barbecue Shrimp and Corn Avocado Salad Bowls are everything you need for a light yet satisfying meal. Fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and customizable toppings make them a go-to for any time of year, especially for summer or healthy grilling season.

Whether you’re focused on clean eating or just want a delicious dinner that feels indulgent and good for you, these bowls are a win.

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Bold Grilled Barbecue Shrimp and Corn Avocado Salad Bowls


  • Author: Lyndy
  • Total Time: 35

Description

Nothing says summer like the smoky char of barbecue shrimp paired with sweet corn and creamy avocado. These Grilled Barbecue Shrimp and Corn Avocado Salad Bowls are the ultimate healthy grilling meal—fresh, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Barbecue Shrimp:

  • 500g (1 lb) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tablespoons barbecue sauce (your favorite kind)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Avocado Corn Salsa:

  • 1 cup fresh or grilled corn kernels (about 2 ears of corn)
  • 1 ripe avocado, diced
  • ½ red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 small tomato, diced
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Salad Bowls:

  • 4 cups cooked brown rice or quinoa
  • 2 cups chopped romaine or baby spinach
  • Optional toppings: black beans, pickled red onions, shredded cheese

For the Dressing:

  • 3 tablespoons Greek yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
  • Salt to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp
In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, barbecue sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Let sit for 15 minutes while you prepare the rest.

Step 2: Grill the Corn and Shrimp
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill the corn (if using fresh) until charred, about 8-10 minutes, rotating frequently. Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side or until opaque and slightly charred. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Avocado Corn Salsa
Cut the corn kernels off the cob. Combine them with avocado, onion, tomato, lime juice, cilantro, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix gently and set aside.

Step 4: Prepare the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, lime juice, garlic powder, honey, and salt. Adjust flavor to taste.

Step 5: Assemble the Bowls
In each bowl, start with a layer of rice or quinoa, then add a handful of greens. Top with grilled shrimp, a scoop of avocado corn salsa, and a drizzle of the creamy dressing. Finish with any optional toppings you

Notes

  • Use jumbo shrimp for best grilling results—they stay juicy and don’t overcook easily.
  • Skewer shrimp for easier flipping on the grill.
  • Grill corn in the husk for extra smoky flavor, or use frozen corn for convenience.
  • Ripe avocado matters—it should be just soft enough to dice without mashing.
  • Balance the lime and seasoning in the salsa for brightness and flavor.
  • Prep Time: 20
  • Cook Time: 15
  • Category: Dinner
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 410 kcal
  • Sugar: 6 g
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Carbohydrates: 32 g
  • Fiber: 6g
  • Protein: 30g

Keywords: Grilled Barbecue Shrimp and Corn Avocado Salad Bowls

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