Chili-Lime Shrimp Lettuce Wraps With Creamy Cilantro Sauce

Chili-Lime Shrimp Lettuce Wraps with Creamy Cilantro Sauce

Table of Contents

These Chili-Lime Shrimp Lettuce Wraps are bursting with flavor and make for a light, fresh, and healthy meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining, these wraps feature juicy shrimp seasoned with zesty chili and lime, nestled in crisp lettuce leaves, and drizzled with a tangy and creamy cilantro sauce. They’re low-carb, gluten-free, and incredibly satisfying!

Time:

Prep Time: 15 minutes

For the Shrimp:

1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined

1 tbsp olive oil

1 tsp chili powder

1/2 tsp smoked paprika

1/4 tsp cumin

Zest of 1 lime

Juice of 1 lime

Salt and pepper to taste

For the Creamy Cilantro Sauce:

1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream

1/4 cup mayonnaise

1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves

1 garlic clove

Juice of 1/2 lime

1–2 tsp honey (optional, to taste)

Salt to taste

1–2 tbsp water (to thin, if needed)

For the Wraps:

1 head butter lettuce or romaine hearts (separated into leaves)

1/2 cup shredded red cabbage or slaw mix (optional)

1/4 cup chopped red onion or green onions

1 avocado, sliced

Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions:

Prepare the Sauce:

In a blender or food processor, combine Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, cilantro, garlic, lime juice, and honey (if using).

Blend until smooth. Add water a tablespoon at a time to thin to desired consistency.

Taste and season with salt. Set aside or refrigerate.

Cook the Shrimp:

In a bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, lime zest, lime juice, salt, and pepper.

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.

Remove from heat and set aside.

Assemble the Wraps:

Lay out lettuce leaves on a platter or plate.

Fill each leaf with a few shrimp, red cabbage, onions, and avocado slices.

Drizzle with creamy cilantro sauce.

Serve:

Garnish with extra cilantro or lime wedges. Serve immediately while shrimp is warm and lettuce is crisp.

Spice Level:

Adjust the heat by adding cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or minced jalapeño to the shrimp marinade.

For a milder version, reduce the chili powder and omit extra spicy ingredients.

Lettuce Options:

Use butter lettuce for a soft, tender wrap.

Romaine hearts offer more crunch and hold their shape well.

Try cabbage leaves or collard greens for sturdier, lower-carb wraps.

Protein Swaps:

Substitute shrimp with grilled chicken, ground turkey, or tofu for different flavors and dietary needs.

Use white fish like cod or tilapia with the same marinade for a flaky seafood twist.

Extra Fillings:

Add toppings like:

Pickled onions

Crumbled feta or cotija cheese

Sliced radishes

Diced mango or pineapple for a sweet and savory combo

Corn kernels or black beans for added texture

Sauce Customizations:

Add half an avocado to the sauce for extra creaminess.

Substitute Greek yogurt with sour cream or plant-based yogurt for dairy-free options.

Add a touch of sriracha or chipotle to the sauce for smoky heat.

Make-Ahead Tips:

Prepare the sauce up to 3 days ahead and store in an airtight container in the fridge.

Marinate shrimp and keep in the fridge for up to 1 day before cooking.

Chop toppings and store separately for easy assembly.

Serving Ideas:

Serve as a build-your-own lettuce wrap bar for parties or family dinners.

Pair with cilantro-lime rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a heartier meal.

Q&A

Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?

A: Yes! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before marinating. This helps them sear properly and absorb the flavors better.

Q: Is this recipe keto-friendly?

A: Yes, it’s naturally low in carbs, especially if you skip the honey in the sauce and avoid sweet toppings like fruit.

Q: Can I make the sauce dairy-free?

A: Absolutely! Use dairy-free yogurt or mayonnaise alternatives. Cashew cream can also work well.

Q: What’s the best way to store leftovers?

A: Store shrimp, sauce, and toppings separately in airtight containers in the fridge. Assemble wraps just before eating to keep lettuce crisp.

Q: Can I meal prep this?

A: Yes! Cook the shrimp, make the sauce, and prep your toppings in advance. Assemble when ready to eat for a quick lunch or dinner.

Nutrition info

Approximate values; may vary based on ingredients used.

Calories: 280

Protein: 23g

Carbohydrates: 8g

Sugars: 2g

Fiber: 3g

Fat: 17g

Saturated Fat: 3g

Cholesterol: 180mg

Sodium: 480mg

Lower the calories and fat by using low-fat Greek yogurt and skipping avocado or mayo.

Conclusion

These Chili-Lime Shrimp Lettuce Wraps with Creamy Cilantro Sauce are the perfect mix of fresh, zesty, creamy, and crunchy. Whether you’re looking for a light dinner, an appetizer for guests, or a meal-prep-friendly lunch, this recipe delivers on flavor without the fuss. Easy to customize, naturally gluten-free, and bursting with vibrant ingredients—this dish is sure to become a regular on your table.