Shrimp Lettuce Wraps

I rarely go out to eat at chain restaurants, but I have to say that the Cheesecake Factory and PF Changs have one of the absolute best meals on their menu- lettuce wraps! I was inspired to recreate these dishes on my own and I'm excited to say that they turned out so yummy!

We used Boston lettuce which is perfect for the wraps because the leaves are large and pliable. I think you could also use big romaine or iceberg leaves as well. 

Like many of my recipes, this one is extremely versatile. If you don't like the veggies I chose, you can easily substitute different ones you do like. If you don't like shrimp (even though this is the superfood!) you can use chicken, tofu, or even steak!

These are super filling- but if you want a starch on the side, consider making Cilantro Lime Rice. Just cook up a cup of brown rice, add 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, 2 tbsp of lime juice and lime zest from a whole lime. Sprinkle a little sea salt on top and BAM you have a delicious side dish.

Shrimp are loaded with omega 3's which have antioxidants and can help prevent the skin from premature aging. Shrimp is also a good source of iodine which is essential for proper thyroid gland functions. Shrimp also contain selenium which have been known to reduce the risk of developing prostate, colorectal, and lung cancer. If you need another reason to consumer this superfood, you should know that including shrimp in your diet can be a great way to shed off the pounds. Shrimp are extremely low in calories, low in carbohydrates and sugar, and high in protein. They will keep you full without making you feel bloated or weighed down. 

Ingredients:

 2 cups frozen cooked shrimp (we used Trader Joe's medium sized)

1 red bell pepper- sliced

1/2 onion- sliced

2 cloves garlic- minced or grated

1/8 cup soy sauce

1 inch ginger- peeled and grated

1 tbsp. Sriracha 

2 tbsp. sesame oil

1/2 lime juiced

1 avocado- sliced

1/4 cup cilantro- chopped

Directions:

1) Mix soy sauce, garlic, ginger, Sriracha, sesame oil, and lime juice in medium sized bowl

2) Add shrimp and marinate for a half hour until shrimp are thawed

3) Meanwhile, slice bell pepper and onion and saute on medium high heat until softened

4) Add shrimp (with the marinade) to sliced veggies and saute until shrimp are warmed through

5) Slice avocado and chop cilantro 

6) Prepare lettuce wraps by adding the veggie/shrimp mixture (with a slotted spoon to avoid making wraps too wet), a couple slices of avocado and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro

7) Roll up and enjoy!

*Recipe makes about 8-10 lettuce wraps