Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe

If you are craving a dish that bursts with fresh flavors and satisfying textures, this Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce is an absolute winner. The lively, slightly smoky shrimp pairs perfectly with the sweet crunch of corn salsa, while the creamy garlic sauce adds a luscious, tangy finish that ties every bite together beautifully. It’s a dish that feels vibrant and indulgent all at once, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend treat. Trust me, once you try this Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce combo, it’s going to become your secret weapon for impressing friends and family effortlessly.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps things wonderfully simple, focusing on fresh, quality ingredients that bring out bold flavors and appealing textures. Each element plays a key role—from the juicy shrimp that offer a hearty base to the bright corn salsa that delivers a crunch of sweetness and zing, not to mention the silky, garlicky sauce that wraps everything in creamy goodness.

• 1 lb large shrimp: Peeled and deveined for quick grilling and easy eating.
• 1 tbsp olive oil: Helps to coat the shrimp and keep them juicy on the grill.
• 1 tsp paprika: Adds a sweet, smoky depth to the shrimp seasoning.
• ½ tsp garlic powder: Enhances the garlic flavor without overpowering the sauce.
• ¼ tsp salt: Essential to bring out all the flavors.
• ¼ tsp black pepper: Adds just the right amount of heat and complexity.
• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional): For those who love a gentle spicy kick.
• 1 cup frozen corn, thawed: Provides a sweet, juicy snap in the salsa.
• ½ cup red onion, diced: Adds crunch and a touch of sharpness.
• ¼ cup cilantro, chopped: Brings fresh herbal notes that brighten the salsa and sauce.
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional): For an extra layer of warmth and excitement.
• 1 lime, juiced: Brightens the salsa with a zesty tang.
• ½ cup mayonnaise: Forms the creamy, rich base for the garlic sauce.
• ¼ cup sour cream: Adds a silky texture and subtle acidity to the sauce.
• 1 tbsp lemon juice: Lends a fresh citrus kick to balance the richness.
• 1 clove garlic, minced: The star of the creamy garlic sauce, giving it its signature flavor.
• 1 avocado, sliced or mashed: Brings buttery creaminess that complements the shrimp perfectly.
• Sesame seeds: For a toasty garnish that adds visual interest and a nutty note.
• Green onions, chopped: Provide a mild onion flavor and pop of green for garnish.

How to Make Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce

Step 1: Season the Shrimp

Start by tossing your peeled and deveined shrimp with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne pepper if you want some heat. This simple seasoning mix ensures your shrimp has a flavorful, slightly smoky coating that will come through beautifully after grilling.

Step 2: Prepare the Corn Salsa

Mix the thawed corn with diced red onion, chopped cilantro, minced jalapeño if using, fresh lime juice, and a pinch of salt. This salsa is a perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors, adding that vibrant pop to your bowl that really makes the dish shine.

Step 3: Grill the Shrimp

Grill the shrimp over medium heat for just 2 to 3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Cooking them quickly over the grill gets you that lovely char and smoky taste while keeping them juicy and tender.

Step 4: Whisk the Creamy Garlic Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, chopped cilantro, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. This sauce is delightfully creamy with a fresh garlic punch that makes every bite feel extra special and indulgent.

Step 5: Assemble the Bowl

Layer your bowls with the zesty corn salsa as the base, add the grilled shrimp on top, and then add slices or mashed avocado. The avocado rounds out the textures with its silky softness, creating a perfect harmony with the other layers.

Step 6: Finish with Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce

Drizzle the luscious creamy garlic sauce generously over your assembled bowl. This step elevates the entire dish by adding a cooling, flavorful element that contrasts beautifully with the grilled shrimp and fresh salsa.

Step 7: Garnish for the Win

Sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions to add both visual appeal and a subtle crunch that will make each bite even more delightful.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve your bowl immediately to enjoy the crisp, fresh textures and creamy sauce at their best. Each bite is a celebration of flavor and warmth, perfect for sharing or a solo indulgence.

How to Serve Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce

Garnishes

Beyond sesame seeds and green onions, you can add an extra squeeze of lime or a sprinkle of smoked paprika to intensify the flavors. Fresh cilantro sprigs can also add a lovely herbaceous note right before serving.

Side Dishes

This bowl is quite complete on its own, but serving it alongside a light, crisp salad or some warm, fluffy rice can make the meal even more satisfying. Cornbread or crusty bread would work beautifully to scoop up every last bit of sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving the components in separate colorful bowls for a build-your-own experience or serve the shrimp and corn salsa inside warm tortillas for a delicious taco night with that unbeatable Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce on top.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover shrimp, salsa, and creamy garlic sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This helps maintain the freshness and prevents the avocado from browning too quickly until you’re ready to enjoy them again.

Freezing

While the shrimp and corn salsa don’t freeze well due to texture changes, you can freeze the creamy garlic sauce in a small container for up to 2 months. Thaw it gently in the fridge and whisk before serving.

Reheating

To reheat the shrimp, warm them briefly in a skillet or microwave until just heated through to avoid overcooking. Serve with fresh corn salsa and drizzle with the creamy garlic sauce to revive that fresh flavor.

FAQs

Can I make the Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can omit the shrimp and use grilled vegetables or beans for protein instead. The salsa and sauce remain delicious and make a fantastic vegetarian meal.

Is the creamy garlic sauce spicy?

No, this sauce is mild and creamy with a gentle garlic flavor. You can add a pinch of cayenne or hot sauce if you want to spice it up a bit.

How long does the salsa stay fresh?

The corn salsa is best eaten within 2 days for optimal freshness and crunch but can last up to 3 days if stored properly in the refrigerator.

Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh corn works wonderfully in this recipe. Just cut the kernels off the cob and use them in the salsa for an even fresher taste.

What can I substitute for mayonnaise in the creamy garlic sauce?

You can use Greek yogurt or a vegan mayonnaise to keep the sauce creamy while catering to dietary preferences or restrictions.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about the combination of smoky grilled shrimp, bright corn salsa, and that luscious Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce that makes every meal feel special. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining loved ones, this bowl is a delightful, fresh, and satisfying choice that I hope you’ll make often and enjoy thoroughly. Dive in, savor each bite, and let this recipe become one of your new favorites.

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