Blackened Shrimp Lettuce Wraps with Avocado Lime Sauce

By AislePrompt Test Kitchen · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Boldly spiced blackened shrimp served in crisp lettuce leaves, topped with a creamy avocado lime sauce for a fresh, Whole30-friendly handheld meal. This southern-inspired seafood (whole30, low carb) ready in about 18 minutes blends large shrimp, peeled and deveined, paprika, ground cumin into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 270 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 10 min Cook: 8 min Serves 4 Southern cuisine 270 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a small bowl, combine 2 tsp paprika, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp onion powder, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp dried oregano, 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper, 1 tsp sea salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper to create the blackening spice mix.
  2. Step 2: Pat dry 1 lb peeled and deveined large shrimp, then toss them with 1 tbsp of the spice mix until evenly coated.
  3. Step 3: Heat 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot, about 2 minutes.
  4. Step 4: Add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until blackened and cooked through, turning once.
  5. Step 5: Meanwhile, prepare the avocado lime sauce by blending 1 medium avocado, 2 tbsp fresh lime juice, and 2 tbsp water in a food processor until smooth and creamy.
  6. Step 6: To assemble, spoon blackened shrimp into 8 large iceberg lettuce leaves, drizzle with the avocado lime sauce, and garnish with 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro. Serve immediately.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Blackened Shrimp Lettuce Wraps with Avocado Lime Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 18 minutes (10 min prep + 8 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Blackened Shrimp Lettuce Wraps with Avocado Lime Sauce?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Blackened Shrimp Lettuce Wraps with Avocado Lime Sauce?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Blackened Shrimp Lettuce Wraps with Avocado Lime Sauce for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

Is Blackened Shrimp Lettuce Wraps with Avocado Lime Sauce whole30?

Yes — this recipe is tagged whole30, low carb, paleo, gluten free based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.

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