Shrimp Lettuce Wraps Recipe

Introduction

Shrimp Lettuce Wraps are a light, flavorful, and healthy dish that can be served as an appetizer, a light lunch, or a refreshing dinner. These wraps are the perfect combination of tender shrimp, fresh vegetables, and a savory sauce, all wrapped up in crispy lettuce leaves. The best part? They’re incredibly easy to make, packed with nutrients, and offer a delicious low-carb alternative to traditional wraps or tacos.

The crunchiness of the lettuce pairs beautifully with the softness of the shrimp, creating a satisfying texture contrast that is both fresh and hearty. The addition of various vegetables like carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers enhances the dish with added crunch and freshness, while the dipping sauce ties everything together with a burst of flavor. Shrimp Lettuce Wraps are perfect for those who want a nutritious, flavorful meal without all the heaviness of a traditional wrap.

Whether you’re hosting a summer party, preparing a healthy weeknight dinner, or simply craving something light but delicious, Shrimp Lettuce Wraps are an ideal choice. With endless variations to suit different tastes and dietary preferences, these wraps will quickly become a go-to recipe for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love Shrimp Lettuce Wraps

• Healthy and Light: Shrimp Lettuce Wraps are a low-calorie, low-carb option that’s packed with lean protein and fresh vegetables. They make for a guilt-free meal that’s perfect for anyone looking to eat healthier without sacrificing flavor.
• Flavor-Packed: The shrimp are cooked with savory seasonings and paired with a tangy sauce that enhances the dish’s natural flavors. The freshness of the lettuce and vegetables adds a crisp and refreshing contrast.
• Easy to Prepare: With just a few ingredients and simple preparation steps, Shrimp Lettuce Wraps come together in no time. They are quick to prepare, making them ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
• Customizable: This dish is versatile, allowing you to add or remove ingredients based on your preferences. You can easily switch up the vegetables or the protein (such as using chicken or tofu instead of shrimp), making it suitable for a variety of diets and tastes.
• Perfect for Entertaining: Shrimp Lettuce Wraps make a fun and interactive meal that guests can assemble themselves. Whether you’re hosting a party or having a casual meal with family, this dish is sure to be a hit.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 4-6 servings (depending on portion size)
• Calories per Serving: Around 200-250 calories per serving (depending on the size of the shrimp and the amount of sauce)

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 200-250 kcal
• Fat: 8-12g
• Carbohydrates: 8-12g
• Protein: 20-25g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 5-6g

Ingredients

For the Shrimp Filling:

• 1 lb (450g) medium or large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or coconut aminos for gluten-free)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Vegetables and Toppings:

• 1 large cucumber, julienned or thinly sliced
• 1 medium carrot, julienned or shredded
• 1/2 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/4 cup green onions, sliced

Lettuce Wraps:

• 12-15 large lettuce leaves (butter lettuce, iceberg lettuce, or romaine lettuce work best)

Dipping Sauce (optional):

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or coconut aminos)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
• 1/2 teaspoon chili paste or sriracha (optional, for heat)
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Shrimp Filling

Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat and adding the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and ginger to the skillet. Sauté them for about 1-2 minutes, until fragrant, but be careful not to burn the garlic.

Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook them for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Stir occasionally to ensure the shrimp cook evenly. Season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) for an extra touch of flavor. Once the shrimp are cooked through, remove them from the heat and set them aside to cool slightly.

Once the shrimp are cool enough to handle, chop them into smaller, bite-sized pieces. This will make them easier to fit into the lettuce wraps and create a more balanced bite.

2. Prepare the Vegetables and Toppings

While the shrimp are cooking, you can prepare the vegetables and toppings. Start by slicing the cucumber into thin rounds or julienning it into strips, depending on your preference. Next, peel the carrot and either julienne it into thin strips or grate it for a finer texture.

Slice the red bell pepper into thin strips and chop the cilantro and green onions. These fresh vegetables and herbs will add a burst of flavor and crunch to the wraps, enhancing the overall texture and taste.

3. Make the Dipping Sauce (Optional)

If you prefer a dipping sauce to accompany your Shrimp Lettuce Wraps, combine the soy sauce (or coconut aminos), rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, and chili paste or sriracha (if using) in a small bowl. Stir everything together until the sauce is smooth and well combined. Taste and adjust the sweetness or heat level by adding more honey or chili paste, if desired. Garnish with sesame seeds for an added touch of flavor and texture.

4. Assemble the Lettuce Wraps

To assemble the lettuce wraps, take a large lettuce leaf and carefully remove the core if you’re using romaine or iceberg lettuce. If you’re using butter lettuce, the leaves should already be well-formed and easy to separate.

Place a spoonful of the shrimp filling in the center of each lettuce leaf. Top the shrimp with a few pieces of cucumber, carrot, bell pepper, cilantro, and green onions. Be careful not to overstuff the wraps, as it can make them harder to fold and eat.

Once the filling is added, fold the sides of the lettuce over the ingredients to create a wrap. If necessary, you can use toothpicks to secure the wraps, though they should hold together well without them.

5. Serve and Enjoy

Serve the Shrimp Lettuce Wraps immediately with the dipping sauce on the side. The wraps are best enjoyed fresh, with the crisp lettuce providing a satisfying crunch against the savory shrimp filling and refreshing vegetables. For added flavor, drizzle some of the dipping sauce directly on the wraps or dip them in the sauce as you eat.

Tips for Perfect Shrimp Lettuce Wraps

• Use Fresh Shrimp: For the best flavor and texture, try to use the freshest shrimp you can find. Fresh or frozen shrimp that are properly thawed will provide the best result.
• Choose the Right Lettuce: Butter lettuce is often the best choice for wraps, as its large, soft leaves are easy to fold and have a mild flavor. Iceberg lettuce provides a nice crunch, while romaine lettuce has a slightly sturdier structure for holding heavier fillings.
• Customize the Vegetables: Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables based on your preferences. Thinly sliced radishes, shredded cabbage, or even avocado slices would all make great additions to these wraps.
• Make It Spicy: If you love heat, add more chili paste or sriracha to the shrimp mixture or the dipping sauce. You can also top the wraps with sliced fresh chilies for an extra kick.
• Add Crunch: For an added crunch, sprinkle some crushed peanuts or cashews on top of the wraps before serving. These nuts will add texture and a touch of nuttiness to the dish.
• Make Ahead: The shrimp filling and dipping sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. However, it’s best to assemble the wraps just before serving to maintain the freshness and crunch of the lettuce.

Variations of Shrimp Lettuce Wraps

• Chicken Lettuce Wraps: If you prefer chicken over shrimp, you can easily swap the shrimp for cooked and shredded chicken breast. Season the chicken with the same garlic, ginger, and soy sauce mixture for a flavorful alternative.
• Tofu Lettuce Wraps: For a vegetarian version, use firm tofu instead of shrimp or chicken. Press the tofu to remove excess moisture, then cube it and sauté it in the same seasonings for a plant-based option.
• Thai-Inspired Lettuce Wraps: Add Thai basil, mint, and a splash of lime juice to the shrimp filling for a more authentic Thai flavor. Serve the wraps with a spicy peanut dipping sauce for a unique twist.
• Low-Carb Lettuce Wraps: If you’re following a low-carb or keto diet, this dish is already a great option. To make it even more filling, you can add some shredded cheese or avocado to the filling for extra fat and flavor.

Storage and Shelf Life

Shrimp Lettuce Wraps are best enjoyed fresh, but the shrimp filling can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. The lettuce leaves, however, will lose their crunch and may wilt if stored with the filling. For best results, store the lettuce and shrimp filling separately and assemble the wraps just before serving.

The dipping sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Be sure to keep it in a sealed container to preserve the flavors.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Shrimp Lettuce Wraps

While Shrimp Lettuce Wraps are delicious on their own, they also pair wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few options to round out the meal:

• Asian Cucumber Salad: A light and refreshing cucumber salad with rice vinegar, sesame oil, and chili flakes complements the shrimp wraps perfectly.
• Steamed Jasmine Rice: If you’re looking to add some carbs to the meal, steamed jasmine rice or brown rice works well with the shrimp and dipping sauce.
• Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup adds a comforting, savory contrast to the freshness of the wraps.
• Grilled Vegetables: Grilled zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers make a great side dish to balance the flavors of the shrimp wraps.

Print

Conclusion

Shrimp Lettuce Wraps are a delicious, healthy, and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With tender shrimp, crisp vegetables, and a savory sauce all wrapped in fresh lettuce leaves, this dish offers a satisfying balance of flavors and textures that everyone will love. Whether you’re serving them as a light appetizer, a main course, or as part of a larger spread, Shrimp Lettuce Wraps are sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

With their easy preparation, customizable ingredients, and fresh taste, these wraps are the perfect option for busy weeknights, casual get-togethers, or even as a meal prep option for the week ahead. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the skillet, and enjoy the refreshing and flavorful experience of Shrimp Lettuce Wraps!