Healthy Taco Shrimp Lettuce Wraps
Enjoy the flavors of tacos in a lighter, healthier twist with these Taco Shrimp Lettuce Wraps. Tender shrimp marinated in zesty taco seasoning and lime juice are paired with a refreshing salad of cherry tomatoes, sweet corn, and onions.
Topped with creamy avocado mash and a tangy sour cream sauce, all wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves, these wraps are not only delicious but also easy to assemble for a quick and satisfying meal.
Healthy Taco Shrimp Lettuce Wraps
Ingredients:
Shrimp:
500g/17.6oz Shrimp (fresh or frozen)
1 Pkt Taco Seasoning
1/3 Cup Olive Oil
Juice of 1 Lime (2Tbls)
Salad:
8 or 9 Lettuce Leaves
200g/7oz Cherry Tomatoes, small dice
1/2 Small Onion, finely chopped
1/2 Cup Sweet Corn
1/4 Tsp Garlic Powder
2 Tbls Olive Oil
2 Tbls Fresh Chopped Parsley
Salt and Pepper
Avocado Mash:
2 Avocados
1/2 Lime, juiced
Sour Cream Sauce:
1 Jar (170g/6oz) Sour Cream or 3/4 Cup Greek Yogurt
1/2 Lime, zest + juice
1/2 Tsp Sugar
Instructions:
Shrimps
In a bowl, combine the shrimp, olive oil, taco seasoning and lime juice. Allow to marinate for 30 minutes.
In a large skillet over medium heat saute the shrimp for a few minutes on both sides until cooked.
Then add remaining marinade which was left in the bowl and stir through just until the shrimps are covered in the sauce.
Salad
In a bowl add the cherry tomatoes, onions, sweetcorn, parsley, olive oil, salt and pepper and mix together.
Avocado Mash
In a medium bowl, add in the avocados, lime juice and salt to taste and give them a rough mash.
Sour Cream Sauce
Whisk all ingredients together. Taste and adjust anything if needed.
Assembly
Wash and pat dry lettuce leaves.
Spoon and spread with avocado mash on top of lettuce leaves.
Top with cherry tomato filling, shrimps, sour cream sauce and garnish with lemon zest, ground pepper and cilantro or parsley.
Enjoy!
Notes:
Shrimp Preparation:
Marination: Marinate the shrimp in a mixture of olive oil, taco seasoning, and lime juice for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to penetrate the shrimp.
Cooking: Sauté the marinated shrimp in a large skillet over medium heat until they are pink and cooked through. Use the remaining marinade in the bowl to coat the shrimp once they are cooked, ensuring they are well covered in the sauce.
Salad Preparation:
Ingredients: Dice cherry tomatoes, finely chop onions, and mix them with sweet corn, fresh chopped parsley, garlic powder, olive oil, salt, and pepper. This salad provides a refreshing and crunchy contrast to the shrimp.
Mixing: Combine all salad ingredients thoroughly to evenly distribute flavors.
Avocado Mash:
Preparation: Mash ripe avocados with lime juice and salt until you achieve a rough texture. This avocado mash adds creaminess and healthy fats to the lettuce wraps.
Sour Cream Sauce:
Ingredients: Whisk together sour cream or Greek yogurt with lime zest, lime juice, and a touch of sugar. Adjust sweetness and acidity to taste.
Consistency: Ensure the sauce is smooth and well combined for a creamy topping to complement the other flavors.
Assembly:
Lettuce Leaves: Wash and dry lettuce leaves thoroughly, using them as the base for the wraps.
Layering: Spread a layer of avocado mash on each lettuce leaf. Top with the prepared cherry tomato salad mixture and then the cooked shrimp.
Finishing Touches: Drizzle the assembled wraps with the sour cream sauce. Garnish with lemon zest, ground pepper, and fresh cilantro or parsley for added flavor and presentation.
Enjoyment:
Serving: Serve the lettuce wraps immediately after assembling to enjoy them while fresh and vibrant.
Customization: Feel free to customize the wraps with additional toppings or adjust seasonings to suit personal preferences.
Nutrition Information:
Calories: 250 calories | Protein: 10 grams | Carbohydrates: 10 grams | Fat: 15 grams | Fiber: 3 grams | Sugars: 2 grams | Sodium: 300-600 milligrams.
Frequently Asked Question
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use either fresh or frozen shrimp for this recipe.
If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them before marinating and cooking.
Is there a substitute for taco seasoning if I want to make it from scratch?
If you prefer to make your own taco seasoning, you can mix ingredients like chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper to create a homemade taco seasoning mix.
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for the sauce?
Yes, you can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream in the sauce if you prefer a lighter option.
It will still add a creamy texture to the wraps.
What lettuce is best to use for the lettuce wraps?
You can use various types of lettuce for wraps, such as iceberg, butterhead (Bibb or Boston lettuce), or Romaine.
Choose the type you prefer or have on hand.
Are there any recommended side dishes to serve with these wraps?
These lettuce wraps are quite filling on their own, but you can serve them with a side of Mexican rice, refried beans, or a simple salad for a complete meal.
Can I use a different type of protein instead of shrimp?
Yes, you can substitute shrimp with other proteins like chicken, ground turkey, or tofu if you have dietary preferences or restrictions.
Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
How do I store any leftover lettuce wraps?
To store leftovers, separate the components (lettuce leaves, shrimp, salad, avocado mash, and sauce) and place them in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
Assemble the wraps just before serving to maintain freshness.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time for meal prep?
Yes, you can prepare the individual components (shrimp, salad, avocado mash, and sauce) in advance and store them separately.
When you’re ready to eat, simply assemble the wraps for a quick and healthy meal.
What are some optional toppings or additions I can include?
You can customize these lettuce wraps with toppings like shredded cheese, diced bell peppers, sliced jalapeños, or hot sauce for added flavor and heat.
Is there a substitute for sweet corn if I don’t have it on hand?
If you don’t have sweet corn, you can use black beans, diced bell peppers, or diced cucumber as an alternative to add some crunch and texture to the salad.