Grilled Shrimp Lettuce Wraps with Creamy Avocado Sauce
These Grilled Shrimp Lettuce Wraps with Creamy Avocado Sauce are a fresh, light, and flavorful meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. Juicy Cajun-seasoned shrimp are grilled until smoky and tender, then tucked into crisp butter lettuce leaves with crunchy homemade slaw and topped with a smooth avocado sauce. Packed with protein, healthy fats, and vibrant vegetables, these low-carb wraps are satisfying, nutritious, and ready in under 30 minutes.
Servings
4 servings (2–3 wraps per serving)
Prep Time
- Prep: 15 minutes
- Cook: 10 minutes
- Total: 25 minutes
Ingredients
For the Shrimp
- 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp Cajun or black pepper seasoning
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- Salt, if needed
For the Wraps
- 8–10 large butter lettuce leaves
- 1 cup shredded red cabbage
- ½ cup diced tomato
- ½ cup shredded carrot
Slaw Dressing
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
- 1 tsp fresh lime juice
- Pinch of salt and black pepper
Creamy Avocado Sauce
- 1 ripe avocado
- ¼ cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro
- 2–3 tbsp water
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. Let marinate for 10 minutes.
- Mix the cabbage, tomato, and carrot with the mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), lime juice, salt, and pepper. Chill while preparing the shrimp.
- Blend the avocado, Greek yogurt, lime juice, garlic, cilantro, water, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. Add a little more water if needed for a drizzle consistency.
- Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat. Grill the shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until pink, lightly charred, and fully cooked.
- Wash and pat dry the butter lettuce leaves. Fill each leaf with a spoonful of slaw, add several grilled shrimp, and drizzle generously with the creamy avocado sauce.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños, or extra lime wedges if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Butter lettuce is soft and flexible, making it ideal for wraps.
- Fresh shrimp cook quickly, so avoid overcooking.
- The avocado sauce is also delicious as a dip or salad dressing.
Tips
- Add sliced avocado for extra creaminess.
- Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds for crunch.
- Substitute grilled chicken or salmon if preferred.
- Make the slaw and sauce a few hours ahead for easy assembly.
- Serve with grilled corn or cauliflower rice for a complete meal.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate)
- Calories: 340
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fat: 21g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 620mg
Health Benefits
- Shrimp is an excellent source of lean protein and selenium.
- Avocados provide heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and potassium.
- Red cabbage and carrots are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber.
- Lettuce wraps offer a low-carb alternative to tortillas or bread.
- Lime juice and fresh herbs add flavor without excess calories.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I cook the shrimp in a skillet?
Yes. Sear them over medium-high heat for about 2–3 minutes per side.
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
Prepare the shrimp, slaw, and avocado sauce in advance, but assemble the wraps just before serving to keep the lettuce crisp.
Q: How should leftovers be stored?
Store each component separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes. Use dairy-free yogurt or mayonnaise in both the slaw and avocado sauce.
Q: Can I make the wraps spicier?
Absolutely! Add cayenne pepper to the shrimp seasoning or top with sliced jalapeños and your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick.