Grilled Shrimp Lettuce Wraps with Avocado Sauce
Description
Grilled Shrimp Lettuce Wraps with Avocado Sauce are a fresh, flavourful, and healthy meal that comes together quickly. Juicy grilled shrimp seasoned with Cajun spices are wrapped in crisp butter lettuce leaves and topped with a colourful cabbage slaw. A creamy avocado sauce adds richness and a refreshing flavour that perfectly complements the smoky shrimp. These low-carb wraps are ideal for lunch, dinner, meal prep, or a light appetiser. Packed with protein, fibre, and healthy fats, they offer a satisfying meal without feeling heavy.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp Cajun or black-pepper seasoning
For the Wraps
- 8–10 large butter lettuce leaves
- 1 cup shredded red cabbage
- ½ cup diced tomato
- ½ cup shredded carrot
For the Slaw Dressing
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
- 1 tsp lime juice
For the Avocado Sauce
- 1 ripe avocado
- 2 tbsp Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp water
- Pinch of salt
Servings
Makes 4 servings (2–3 wraps per serving).
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
- In a bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil and Cajun seasoning until evenly coated.
- Let marinate for 10–15 minutes while preparing the other ingredients.
Step 2: Make the Slaw
- In a medium bowl, combine shredded cabbage, diced tomato, and shredded carrot.
- Add mayonnaise (or Greek yoghurt) and lime juice.
- Toss until the vegetables are lightly coated.
- Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Step 3: Prepare the Avocado Sauce
- Place avocado, Greek yoghurt, lime juice, garlic, water, and salt in a blender or food processor.
- Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Add a little more water if needed to reach a drizzle-friendly consistency.
Step 4: Grill the Shrimp
- Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- Grill shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until pink, opaque, and lightly charred.
- Remove from heat immediately to avoid overcooking.
Step 5: Assemble the Wraps
- Lay lettuce leaves on a serving platter.
- Add a spoonful of slaw to each leaf.
- Top with grilled shrimp.
- Drizzle generously with avocado sauce.
- Serve immediately with extra lime wedges if desired.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 290
- Protein: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 4g
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Vitamin A: 70% DV
- Vitamin C: 35% DV
Health Benefits
- High in Lean Protein: Shrimp supports muscle maintenance and recovery.
- Low in Carbohydrates: Suitable for low-carb and keto-friendly lifestyles.
- Rich in Healthy Fats: Avocado provides heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
- Loaded with Vitamins: Lettuce, cabbage, carrots, and tomatoes offer essential nutrients and antioxidants.
- Good Source of Fibre: Helps support digestion and satiety.
- Nutrient Dense: Provides vitamins A, C, potassium, and omega-3 fatty acids.
Tips
- Pat shrimp dry before seasoning for better grilling results.
- Use fresh lime juice for the brightest flavour.
- Chill the lettuce leaves before serving for extra crispness.
- Add sliced jalapeños for extra heat.
- For meal prep, store components separately and assemble just before eating.
Recipe Notes
- Butter lettuce works best because of its soft texture and cup-like shape.
- Greek yoghurt can replace mayonnaise for a lighter option.
- The avocado sauce may darken over time; cover tightly with plastic wrap if making ahead.
- This recipe can be cooked on an outdoor grill, stovetop grill pan, or skillet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A: Yes. Thaw completely and pat dry before seasoning and grilling.
Q: What can I substitute for butter lettuce?
A: Romaine, iceberg, or little gem lettuce leaves work well.
Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Yes. Use dairy-free yoghurt in the avocado sauce and slaw.
Q: How spicy is Cajun seasoning?
A: Most blends are mildly spicy, but heat levels vary by brand.
Q: Can I cook the shrimp in a skillet instead of grilling?
A: Absolutely. Sauté over medium-high heat for 2–3 minutes per side.
These grilled shrimp lettuce wraps with avocado sauce are fresh, nutritious, and bursting with flavour, making them an excellent choice for a quick and wholesome meal.