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Blackened Shrimp Caesar Lettuce Wraps

blackened shrimp caesar lettuce wraps - featured image

These blackened shrimp Caesar lettuce wraps combine smoky, spicy shrimp with creamy avocado and tangy Caesar dressing, all wrapped in crisp Romaine leaves for a fresh, light, and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (fresh or thawed frozen)
  • 1 tablespoon paprika (smoked paprika optional)
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to heat preference)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil (for searing)
  • 1 head Romaine lettuce or Boston bibb lettuce (large, sturdy leaves)
  • 1 ripe avocado, sliced or mashed
  • 1/4 cup shaved Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • Freshly cracked black pepper (to taste)
  • 1/3 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: a splash of Worcestershire sauce

Instructions

  1. Prepare the blackening spice blend by combining paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, black pepper, and salt in a small bowl; mix well.
  2. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and toss with the spice blend until evenly coated.
  3. Heat a large cast iron or heavy skillet over medium-high heat; add olive or avocado oil and heat until shimmering and slightly smoking.
  4. Add shrimp in a single layer without crowding; cook 2-3 minutes on one side until blackened crust forms and edges turn pink, then flip and cook 1-2 minutes until opaque; remove shrimp and set aside.
  5. In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, minced garlic, grated Parmesan, salt, pepper, and optional Worcestershire sauce; adjust seasoning to taste.
  6. Separate large Romaine leaves, rinse, and pat dry; slice or mash the ripe avocado.
  7. Assemble wraps by spreading Caesar dressing on a lettuce leaf, adding blackened shrimp, avocado, and sprinkling shaved Parmesan; add freshly cracked black pepper if desired.
  8. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.

Notes

Dry shrimp thoroughly before seasoning to ensure a good sear and blackened crust. Preheat skillet until slightly smoking for best results. Assemble wraps just before serving to keep lettuce crisp and avocado fresh. For dairy-free, substitute Parmesan with nutritional yeast and use dairy-free mayo. Adjust cayenne pepper to control spice level.

Nutrition

Keywords: blackened shrimp, lettuce wraps, Caesar dressing, avocado wraps, low carb, gluten-free, quick dinner, healthy lunch