If you’re searching for a fresh and flavorful appetizer or light main course, Shrimp Lettuce Cups are your new go-to! Each bite bursts with juicy shrimp tossed in a tangy, garlicky sauce, all cozied up inside crisp butter lettuce leaves and topped with a riot of colorful veggies. This recipe comes together quickly, ticks all the healthy boxes, and never fails to impress—whether you’re hosting friends or simply treating yourself to something special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about these Shrimp Lettuce Cups is how each ingredient brings its own magic to the table. A handful of pantry staples and fresh produce join forces to deliver lots of flavor and texture, making this recipe as fun to eat as it is beautiful to serve.
- Shrimp: Choose fresh or thawed medium shrimp for sweet, juicy flavor and snappy bite.
- Olive oil: A quick sauté in olive oil helps the shrimp stay tender and flavorful.
- Garlic: Minced garlic adds vivid aroma and depth to the savory sauce.
- Soy sauce: Brings umami and saltiness, tying everything together — use tamari for a gluten-free swap!
- Lime juice: The hit of acidity brightens up each lettuce cup and balances the savory notes.
- Honey: Just a teaspoon mellows the sauce and enhances the natural sweetness of the shrimp.
- Chili flakes: Optional, but highly recommended for a gentle background heat.
- Black pepper: Rounds out the flavors with a subtle touch of warmth.
- Butter lettuce: Its soft, flexible leaves make perfect, naturally refreshing cups for the filling.
- Shredded carrots: Add crunch and a pop of color for both taste and presentation.
- Cucumber: Cool, thin slices provide crispness and contrast.
- Red bell pepper: Diced bell peppers offer bright color and sweet crunch.
- Green onions: A sprinkle of these adds sharpness and an extra punch of fresh flavor.
- Fresh cilantro: Chopped cilantro finishes things off with a fragrant, herbal note.
How to Make Shrimp Lettuce Cups
Step 1: Sauté the Shrimp
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet set over medium-high heat. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp, tossing in the minced garlic, soy sauce, lime juice, honey, chili flakes (if you want a little kick), and black pepper. Stir occasionally and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes, just until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. As soon as they’re done, take the pan off the heat to prevent overcooking.
Step 2: Prepare the Lettuce Cups
While the shrimp cooks, carefully separate the butter lettuce leaves, rinse, and gently pat them dry. Lay the leaves on a large platter—these will be your little edible “boats.” This is also a good time to slice and dice your veggies, so they’re ready for assembly once the shrimp comes off the stove.
Step 3: Assemble the Shrimp Lettuce Cups
Divide the freshly cooked shrimp among the lettuce leaves. Top each one with a generous sprinkle of shredded carrots, cucumber slices, finely diced red bell pepper, sliced green onions, and a scattering of chopped cilantro. If you’re feeling a bit extra, this is the moment to add a few chopped peanuts or cashews on top for irresistible crunch.
Step 4: Serve Immediately
Shrimp Lettuce Cups are at their very best when served right away while the shrimp is still juicy and warm, and the veggies are super crisp. Serve straight from the platter and encourage everyone to dig in with their hands for the full experience.
How to Serve Shrimp Lettuce Cups
Garnishes
The fun of Shrimp Lettuce Cups is in the toppings! A sprinkle of extra cilantro or sliced green onions gives a fresh, lively finish. If you love a little more heat, add a pinch of chili flakes or a drizzle of your favorite spicy mayo. Chopped peanuts or cashews, toasted lightly in a pan, add delightfully crunchy contrast.
Side Dishes
Keep things vibrant and light by pairing Shrimp Lettuce Cups with a crunchy Asian slaw, a refreshing cucumber salad, or jasmine rice if you want a heartier plate. Even a simple miso soup can be a comforting side, rounding out the meal with warmth and depth.
Creative Ways to Present
Make your Shrimp Lettuce Cups extra special by arranging the lettuce leaves in a flower shape on a platter, and scattering all the colorful toppings in the center. You can serve them family style for everyone to build their own cups, or pre-assemble each cup for a pretty, ready-to-pick-up appetizer at a party. Mini bamboo skewers or cocktail picks can add an elegant touch for serving as canapés.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
It’s unlikely you’ll have leftovers, but if you do, keep the filling and lettuce leaves separate. Place the cooked shrimp mixture and chopped veggies in airtight containers in the refrigerator, and store the dry lettuce leaves in a sealed bag lined with a paper towel to prevent wilting. Everything should stay fresh for up to 2 days this way.
Freezing
I don’t recommend freezing assembled Shrimp Lettuce Cups, as the lettuce and fresh veggies won’t hold up in the freezer. However, you can freeze the cooked shrimp mixture itself. Just let it cool completely, then store in an airtight container for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
For the best flavor and texture, reheat the shrimp filling in a skillet over low heat until just warmed through. Avoid microwaving on high heat, which can make the shrimp rubbery. Once warmed, spoon the filling into fresh lettuce leaves and top with crisp cold veggies as usual.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Appetizer, Main Course
Absolutely! If butter lettuce isn’t available, Boston, Bibb, or even iceberg lettuce work beautifully. Just look for sturdy, large leaves that can easily hold the filling without tearing.
Are Shrimp Lettuce Cups gluten-free?
They can easily be made gluten-free! Just be sure to use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce in place of traditional soy sauce. All of the other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
What can I substitute for shrimp?
If shrimp isn’t your thing, feel free to swap it for diced cooked chicken, tofu, or even flaked salmon. The bold flavors in the sauce are versatile and taste delicious with many proteins.
Can I make Shrimp Lettuce Cups ahead of time?
You can prep all individual components in advance—chop the veggies, cook the shrimp, and wash the lettuce—but for the freshest taste and crispest texture, assemble the cups just before serving.
How spicy are Shrimp Lettuce Cups?
The chili flakes add just a gentle warmth, but you’re in full control! Leave them out for a mild version, or add extra chili or a spicy sauce drizzle for those who crave more heat.
Final Thoughts
Shrimp Lettuce Cups are such a bright, satisfying way to shake up your weeknight dinner or wow guests at your next gathering. Their fresh crunch, zesty flavor, and eye-catching colors never disappoint. Give them a try soon—you might just find yourself making this dish on repeat!
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Shrimp Lettuce Cups Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings (2 lettuce cups each) 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Shrimp Lettuce Cups are a light and flavorful dish perfect for a quick and healthy meal. Succulent shrimp combined with a medley of fresh vegetables, all nestled in crisp lettuce leaves, make for a delightful Asian-inspired treat.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Serving:
- 8 large butter lettuce leaves
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup red bell pepper, finely diced
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp, garlic, soy sauce, lime juice, honey, chili flakes (if using), and black pepper. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes until shrimp are pink and opaque. Remove from heat.
- Assemble the Lettuce Cups: Lay out the lettuce leaves on a serving platter. Divide the cooked shrimp among the leaves and top with shredded carrots, cucumber, bell pepper, green onions, and cilantro.
- Serve: Enjoy the shrimp lettuce cups immediately.
Notes
- For added crunch, sprinkle chopped peanuts or cashews on top.
- Drizzle with spicy mayo or peanut sauce for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Main Course
- Method: Stovetop, Assembly
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 lettuce cups
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 530 mg
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 21 g
- Cholesterol: 170 mg
