Gluten Free Shrimp & Avocado Lettuce Cups – Easy, Healthy Appetizer Recipe
Why You’ll Love This Gluten Free Shrimp & Avocado Lettuce Cups Recipe
These Gluten-Free Shrimp & Avocado Lettuce Cups are fresh, flavorful, and bursting with vibrant textures. Juicy shrimp are sautéed in garlic and lime, then paired with creamy avocado and crisp lettuce for the ultimate light meal or party appetizer. They’re quick to make, naturally gluten-free, and loaded with protein and healthy fats—perfect for any healthy November gathering!
Table of Contents
Ingredient Notes
To make these shrimp lettuce cups gluten-free and delicious, here’s what you’ll need:
- Shrimp: Use medium or large shrimp, peeled and deveined. Fresh or frozen (thawed) both work.
- Lettuce: Butter lettuce, Romaine, or iceberg leaves make great cups.
- Avocado: Ripe but firm for easy dicing.
- Lime juice: Adds brightness and keeps the avocado from browning.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic brings savory flavor.
- Olive oil: For sautéing the shrimp.
- Red onion or shallots: Add crunch and mild heat.
- Fresh herbs: Cilantro or parsley for garnish.
- Salt & pepper: To season perfectly.
Optional Add-Ins: Diced mango, cherry tomatoes, or a sprinkle of chili flakes for a spicy touch.
Step-By-Step Photos and Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
In a skillet over medium heat, warm olive oil and sauté garlic until fragrant. Add shrimp, salt, and pepper. Cook 2–3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through.
Step 2: Prepare the Avocado Mix
In a bowl, combine diced avocado, red onion, lime juice, and herbs. Gently toss to coat.
Step 3: Assemble the Lettuce Cups
Lay out the lettuce leaves on a plate. Spoon the avocado mixture into each leaf and top with shrimp.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Drizzle with extra lime juice and sprinkle with cilantro or chili flakes if desired. Serve immediately.
Oven-Baked Directions
If you prefer roasted shrimp, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange shrimp on a lined baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil and seasonings, and roast for 6–8 minutes or until cooked through.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make these ahead of time?
You can prep the shrimp and avocado separately, but assemble just before serving to keep the lettuce crisp.
2. Which lettuce works best?
Butter lettuce is soft and flexible, while Romaine offers a crunchy bite—either is great!
3. How can I make it dairy-free?
This recipe is naturally dairy-free! Just ensure your seasonings and oil are gluten-free certified.
4. Can I serve these cold?
Yes! They taste fantastic cold—perfect for parties or meal prep lunches.
Love This Recipe?
If you enjoyed these shrimp and avocado lettuce cups, leave a comment and rating below! Your feedback helps others find this easy gluten-free recipe.
Easy Gluten-Free Shrimp & Avocado Lettuce Cups
Equipment
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Mixing bowl
- Tongs or spatula
- Measuring spoons
Ingredients 1x2x3x
- 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- ¼ cup red onion, finely diced
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 8 large lettuce leaves
- Cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and shrimp; season with salt and pepper.
- Cook 2–3 minutes per side until shrimp turns pink.
- In a bowl, combine avocado, red onion, lime juice, and herbs.
- Place lettuce leaves on a platter. Fill each with avocado mix and top with shrimp.
- Garnish and serve immediately.
Notes
These lettuce cups are best served fresh for the ultimate crunch and flavor. If you’re preparing ahead, keep the shrimp and avocado mixture stored separately and assemble just before serving. Add a sprinkle of chili flakes or a drizzle of honey-lime dressing for a flavor boost.
Special Note
Always ensure that your shrimp, seasonings, and sauces are labeled gluten-free. Cross-contamination can occur with shared utensils or oils, so use clean cookware when preparing gluten-free recipes.
Nutrition
Serving Size: 2 lettuce cups
Calories: 215 | Protein: 19g | Fat: 13g | Carbohydrates: 5g | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 1g | Sodium: 310mg
Nutrition Disclaimer
The nutritional values provided are approximate and may vary based on specific brands and portion sizes. This information should be used as a general guide and not as medical or dietary advice.
