Name: Shrimp & Avocado Lettuce Wraps Gym Meal
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 2
Cuisine: Healthy
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) medium shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste); 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro; 1/4 cup diced red onion (optional, for crunch); 1/4 tsp black pepper; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 ripe avocados, diced; 2 tbsp fresh lime juice (about 1 lime); 2 tbsp olive oil, divided; 8 large butter lettuce leaves

This Shrimp & Avocado Lettuce Wraps Gym Meal is a light, protein-packed dish perfect for fitness enthusiasts. Fresh shrimp, creamy avocado, and crisp lettuce combine with zesty lime and cilantro for a flavorful, low-carb meal that supports your active lifestyle. Ready in minutes, it’s ideal for quick, healthy eating.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a game-changer for anyone prioritizing health without sacrificing flavor. The succulent shrimp provide lean protein to fuel muscle recovery, while avocado delivers healthy fats for sustained energy. Crisp lettuce wraps keep it low-carb, making it perfect for gym-goers or those watching their macros. The vibrant lime-cilantro dressing adds a refreshing zing, elevating the dish to a crave-worthy meal. Quick to prepare and easy to customize, these wraps fit seamlessly into busy schedules. Whether you’re meal-prepping or enjoying a post-workout bite, this dish offers a delicious, guilt-free way to stay on track with your fitness goals.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Chill the shrimp: For the best texture, refrigerate cooked shrimp briefly before assembling to keep wraps crisp.
Butter lettuce is best: Its soft, pliable leaves make perfect wraps without tearing.
Don’t overcook shrimp: Cook just until pink to avoid a rubbery texture.
Prep ahead: Marinate shrimp and chop veggies in advance for faster assembly.
Use a citrus squeezer: This ensures maximum juice extraction for the dressing without seeds.
Add crunch: Sprinkle crushed nuts or seeds for extra texture.
Taste as you go: Adjust lime and seasoning to balance flavors perfectly.
Serve immediately: Assemble wraps just before eating to prevent lettuce from wilting.

Yield: serving 2

Shrimp & Avocado Lettuce Wraps Gym Meal

Shrimp & Avocado Lettuce Wraps: a fresh, low-carb gym meal with zesty lime-cilantro flavors, perfect for quick, healthy eating.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 5 minutes

Additional Time 5 minutes

Total Time 25 minutes

Ingredients

1 lb (450g) medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1/4 cup diced red onion (optional, for crunch)
1/4 tsp black pepper
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 ripe avocados, diced
2 tbsp fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
2 tbsp olive oil, divided
8 large butter lettuce leaves

Instructions

Prepare the Shrimp: Pat shrimp dry with paper towels to ensure even cooking. Season with 1/4 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper for a flavor boost.
Cook the Shrimp: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, stirring for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Sauté Shrimp: Add shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tbsp olive oil, lime juice, chopped cilantro, and remaining 1/4 tsp salt. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Prep the Avocado: Dice avocados into bite-sized pieces. For extra freshness, toss with a splash of lime juice to prevent browning.
Wash Lettuce: Gently rinse butter lettuce leaves and pat dry with a clean towel. Select the largest, most cup-shaped leaves for wrapping.
Assemble Wraps: Lay out 4 lettuce leaves (double up for sturdiness if needed). Spoon 1-2 tbsp diced avocado onto each leaf.
Add Shrimp: Place 3-4 cooked shrimp on top of the avocado. If using, sprinkle diced red onion for a crunchy bite.
Drizzle Dressing: Spoon the lime-cilantro dressing evenly over each wrap, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
Serve Immediately: Fold the lettuce gently around the filling or serve open-faced. Enjoy as a fresh, protein-packed gym meal!

Notes

For meal prep, store components separately and assemble just before eating to keep lettuce crisp.
Adjust spice levels by increasing or omitting red pepper flakes to suit your taste.
If shrimp are large, cut into smaller pieces for easier wrapping.
Use ripe but firm avocados to avoid mushiness in the wraps.

Nutrition Information

Yield

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 477Total Fat 43gSaturated Fat 6gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 35gCholesterol 5mgSodium 625mgCarbohydrates 24gFiber 15gSugar 4gProtein 6g

The recipes and nutritional information on Yum Tonight are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.

Ingredients Notes

Shrimp: Opt for medium-sized, peeled, and deveined shrimp for ease and quick cooking. Fresh or frozen works, but thaw frozen shrimp thoroughly.
Avocado: Choose ripe avocados that yield slightly to pressure for creamy texture and rich flavor.
Butter Lettuce: Its tender, cup-shaped leaves are ideal for wrapping. Romaine can substitute but is less flexible.
Lime: Freshly squeezed lime juice is key for bright, tangy flavor; avoid bottled juice for best results.
Cilantro: Adds a fresh, herbaceous note. If you’re not a fan, parsley can work but alters the flavor profile.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil enhances the dressing’s richness; use high-quality for better taste.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic provides a bold kick; pre-minced can be used in a pinch.
Red Pepper Flakes: Adjust to your spice tolerance for a subtle or fiery heat.

Variations and Substitutions

For dietary needs or flavor twists, this recipe is highly adaptable. Swap shrimp for grilled chicken or tofu for a vegetarian option, ensuring similar protein content. If avocados are unavailable, try mashed chickpeas for creaminess. Replace butter lettuce with collard greens or cabbage for a sturdier wrap. For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or sriracha to the dressing. If cilantro isn’t your thing, basil or mint can offer a fresh alternative. For a low-sodium version, reduce salt and boost flavors with extra lime or herbs. You can also add veggies like shredded carrots or cucumber for extra crunch and nutrition.

Storage Options

Store components separately for optimal freshness. Keep cooked shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Store sliced avocado with a squeeze of lime juice to prevent browning, sealed tightly, for 1 day. Lettuce leaves can be wrapped in a damp paper towel and refrigerated for 3-4 days. The dressing can be made ahead and stored in a sealed jar for up to a week. Assemble wraps just before serving to maintain crispness. Freezing is not recommended, as lettuce and avocado lose texture when thawed.