Shrimp Taco Lettuce Cups

These Shrimp Taco Lettuce Cups combine the delicious, vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine with a fresh, healthy twist. With perfectly spiced shrimp, creamy guacamole, and crisp lettuce cups, this dish is a low-carb, satisfying alternative to traditional tacos. It’s the perfect choice for a quick, nutritious meal or as a light, crowd-pleasing appetizer for your next gathering!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Shrimp Taco Lettuce Cups are packed with flavor and texture. The shrimp is spiced just right with a blend of chili powder, cumin, garlic, and cayenne, then cooked to perfection. Paired with a simple, fresh guacamole and served in crisp lettuce cups, this dish offers a satisfying, low-carb alternative to regular tacos. It’s light, healthy, and bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors that will keep you coming back for more.

Ingredients

For the Spiced Shrimp:

• 1 lb wild-caught medium shrimp, peeled and deveined (31–40 count works well)

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 2 tsp chili powder

• 1 tsp ground cumin

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

• 1/2 tsp onion powder

• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

For Assembly:

• 1 large ripe avocado, diced

• 1/2 small red onion, finely chopped

• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

• Juice of 1 large lime (about 2 tbsp)

• 1 head butter lettuce, leaves separated and washed

Instructions

1. Prepare the Spice Paste:

   • In a large bowl, combine olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Mix well until it forms a fragrant paste.

2. Season the Shrimp:

   • Toss the shrimp in the spice paste until evenly coated. Let sit for 10 minutes at room temperature to absorb the flavors.

3. Cook the Shrimp:

   • Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are pink, curled, and cooked through. Be careful not to overcook them to avoid a rubbery texture.

4. Make the Guacamole:

   • In a bowl, combine diced avocado, chopped red onion, cilantro, and lime juice. Lightly mash with a fork, leaving some texture.

5. Prepare Lettuce Cups:

   • Select the best outer leaves from the butter lettuce. They should be large enough to form cup shapes that will hold the filling.

6. Assemble the Lettuce Cups:

   • Place 3-4 shrimp in each lettuce cup and top with a spoonful of guacamole. Serve immediately for the best contrast in temperatures and textures.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving – 3 cups):

• Calories: 215 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 8g

• Protein: 24g

• Fat: 10g

• Fiber: 5g

• Sodium: 320mg

• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: High (from wild-caught shrimp)

• Vitamin C: 15% DV (from lime and cilantro)

Storage Tips:

• Cooked Shrimp: Store in the fridge for up to 2 days. Shrimp can be served cold or reheated.

• Guacamole: Store in an airtight container with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface to prevent browning. It’s best served fresh.

• Lettuce Cups: Assemble just before serving to maintain the crispness of the lettuce.

Serving Suggestions:

• With Mexican Rice: Serve with a side of Mexican rice to make this dish a complete meal.

• Summer Parties: These shrimp taco lettuce cups make a perfect, light appetizer for a summer gathering.

• Meal Prep: Store components separately for easy meal prep, assembling fresh cups as needed.

• With Lime Wedges: Add extra brightness and a fresh squeeze of lime for serving.

Mix It Up (Recipe Variations):

• Mango Shrimp Cups: Add diced mango to the guacamole for a tropical sweetness.

• Smoky Chipotle Version: Replace chili powder with chipotle powder for a smoky heat.

• Protein-Packed Cups: Stir in cooked white beans or chickpeas to the guacamole for extra fiber and plant protein.

• Asian Fusion: Use sesame oil and five-spice instead of Mexican seasonings for a flavorful twist.

What Makes This Recipe Special:

Shrimp Taco Lettuce Cups are a fantastic low-carb alternative to traditional tacos. The shrimp is perfectly spiced and paired with a refreshing guacamole, creating a dish that’s bursting with flavor. Served in crispy lettuce cups, it’s a healthy, satisfying meal that’s both light and filling. Whether you’re looking for a fresh appetizer or a healthy meal, this dish will impress with its vibrant flavors and textures.