Healthy Taco Shrimp Lettuce Wraps Recipe

Healthy Taco Shrimp Lettuce Wraps Recipe

The shrimp is seasoned with delicious taco spices and served in fresh, crisp lettuce leaves for a healthy twist on tacos. These wraps are perfect for a quick lunch, dinner, or as an appetizer.

Prep Time: 15-20 minutes

Cook Time: 6-8 minutes

Total Time: ~20-25 minutes

Ingredients:

For the Shrimp:

1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 teaspoon chili powder

1 teaspoon cumin

1 teaspoon paprika

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1 tablespoon lime juice (freshly squeezed)

For the Wraps:

12-15 large lettuce leaves (Romaine, Butter, or Iceberg work best for wraps)

Toppings:

1/2 cup diced tomatoes

1/4 cup diced red onion

1/4 cup chopped cilantro

1/2 avocado (sliced or diced)

1/4 cup shredded cheese (optional, for a bit of indulgence—use a light cheese or skip for a lighter version)

1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional)

A squeeze of lime juice for serving

Hot sauce (optional, for a kick)

Instructions:

Prepare the Shrimp:

In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.

Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the seasoning mix. Let the shrimp marinate for about 10-15 minutes, if you have time.

Cook the Shrimp:

Heat a large skillet or non-stick pan over medium-high heat.

Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them. Once done, remove from the skillet and drizzle with fresh lime juice.

Prepare the Lettuce Wraps:

While the shrimp is cooking, carefully separate the lettuce leaves and rinse them under cold water to clean them. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.

Arrange the lettuce leaves on a serving platter, making sure they are sturdy enough to hold the shrimp and toppings.

Assemble the Wraps:

Take a lettuce leaf and place 2-3 shrimp in the center.

Top the shrimp with diced tomatoes, red onions, chopped cilantro, and avocado. Optionally, sprinkle with shredded cheese and a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt.

Serve:

Squeeze a bit of lime juice over the wraps and drizzle with hot sauce if you like some extra heat.

Serve immediately and enjoy your healthy, flavorful shrimp taco lettuce wraps!

Tips:

Taco Seasoning: If you prefer, you can use store-bought taco seasoning instead of the individual spices. Just be mindful of the salt content.

Grilled Shrimp Option: For an even smokier flavor, you can grill the shrimp instead of cooking them in a skillet. This gives them a delicious charred taste.

Veggie Add-ins: Feel free to add additional toppings like corn, shredded cabbage, or a tangy slaw for more texture.

Meal Prep: If making these for meal prep, store the cooked shrimp and toppings separately from the lettuce wraps, and assemble them just before eating to keep everything fresh.

Nutrition Estimate (per wrap, with shrimp and basic toppings):

Calories: ~120-150 kcal (depending on the toppings you choose)

Protein: ~15g (from the shrimp)

Fat: ~6-7g (from the shrimp, olive oil, avocado, and optional cheese or sour cream)

Carbohydrates: ~4-6g (mostly from the veggies and avocado)

Fiber: ~2g (from the veggies and avocado)

Sodium: ~300-400mg (depending on seasoning and toppings)

These Healthy Taco Shrimp Lettuce Wraps are a fresh, light, and satisfying way to enjoy tacos without the carbs! Perfect for a healthy meal that’s packed with flavor. Enjoy!