Shrimp Avocado Lettuce Boats

Fresh, light, and flavorful, these Shrimp Avocado Lettuce Boats combine juicy seasoned shrimp, creamy avocado, crisp lettuce, and a bright lime dressing. They make a quick lunch, healthy appetizer, or easy low-carb dinner.

🥬 Ingredients

For the Shrimp

• 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon chili powder
• ¼ teaspoon cumin
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice

For the Avocado Filling

• 2 ripe avocados, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ¼ cup red onion, finely diced
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Lettuce Boats

• 8–12 large romaine or butter lettuce leaves
• Lime wedges, for serving
• Fresh cilantro, optional

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Season the Shrimp

Place the peeled shrimp in a bowl.

Add olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper.

Toss until the shrimp are evenly coated.

2. Cook the Shrimp

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for approximately 2–3 minutes per side, until pink, opaque, and cooked through.

Remove from the heat and drizzle with fresh lime juice.

Allow the shrimp to cool slightly.

3. Prepare the Avocado Mixture

In a bowl, gently combine the diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro.

Add lime juice, salt, and black pepper.

Toss gently so the avocado doesn’t become mashed.

4. Prepare the Lettuce

Wash and thoroughly dry the lettuce leaves.

Choose large, sturdy leaves that can hold the filling without tearing.

Arrange them on a serving platter.

5. Assemble the Boats

Place a spoonful of the avocado mixture into each lettuce leaf.

Top with 2–3 cooked shrimp, depending on their size.

Garnish with fresh cilantro and an extra squeeze of lime.

⭐ Tips for the Best Lettuce Boats

• Use cold, crisp lettuce for the best crunch.
• Pat the lettuce completely dry so the boats don’t become watery.
• Don’t overcook the shrimp—they only need a few minutes.
• Add diced jalapeño for a spicy kick.
• For extra creaminess, drizzle with a little avocado-lime sauce.
• Assemble just before serving to keep the lettuce crisp.

🌶️ Optional Toppings

Try adding:

• Diced jalapeño
• Corn
• Black beans
• Shredded cabbage
• Mango
• Cotija or feta cheese
• Sliced green onions
• Chipotle mayo
• Cilantro-lime dressing

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Serve these lettuce boats as:

• A light lunch
• A healthy appetizer
• A low-carb dinner
• A party snack
• A refreshing summer meal

⏱️ Recipe Details

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 5–6 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
Method: Stovetop / No-bake assembly