VIETNAMESE SHRIMP LETTUCE WRAPS
Vietnamese Shrimp Lettuce Wraps are a vibrant and refreshing dish that brings together plump, cooked shrimp, crisp lettuce, delicate vermicelli noodles and a splash of zesty lime with savoury nuoc cham dressing. This light yet flavour-packed wrap is perfect as a quick lunch, an appetiser, or a nutritious snack and is designed for single-serve satisfaction. The lettuce acts as a crunchy vessel holding the tender shrimp and slippery noodles, making every bite a textural delight. The tangy and subtly sweet flavours of nuoc cham elevate the entire wrap into a fragrant Vietnamese classic. With minimal preparation and no need for cooking, this recipe is ideal for warm days or when you need something fast, light and satisfying. It’s naturally gluten-free, low in carbs and full of fresh, wholesome ingredients.
RECIPE CATEGORY
Appetisers
SERVING SIZE
1
CUISINE
Vietnamese
PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES
No-Cook
OCCASION/HOLIDAY
Casual Dinner
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS
Wheat/Gluten-Free
DISH TYPE
Tacos & Wraps
INGREDIENTS
Here is a list of ingredients for Vietnamese Shrimp Lettuce Wraps:
- 2 cooked shrimp, sliced
- 2 large lettuce leaves
- 1 tablespoon vermicelli noodles
- ½ teaspoon lime juice
- ½ tablespoon nuoc cham
FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
- Calories: 56 Kcal
- Total Fat: 0.8 G
- Saturated Fat: 0.2 G
- Cholesterol: 41 Mg
- Sodium: 215 Mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 5.2 G
- Dietary Fibre: 0.7 G
- Sugars: 0.8 G
- Protein: 7.2 G
- Vitamin A: 105 Mcg
- Vitamin C: 2.1 Mg
- Calcium: 32 Mg
- Iron: 0.4 Mg
- Potassium: 95 Mg
PREPARATION
- Prep The Lettuce: Rinse and pat dry two large lettuce leaves. Set aside on a plate for filling.
- Prepare The Noodles: Soak or boil vermicelli noodles as per package instructions. Drain and let it cool.
- Slice The Shrimp: Cut cooked shrimp lengthwise for easier folding and even flavour distribution.
- Assemble Wraps: Lay shrimp slices in the centre of each lettuce leaf. Top with noodles.
- Add Dressing: Drizzle each wrap with lime juice and nuoc cham.
- Serve Immediately: Gently fold or roll the lettuce leaves to enclose the fillings. Serve fresh for the best texture.
PREP TIME
5 minutes
COOKING TIME
0 minutes
TIPS
- Use Butter Lettuce: Butter or Bibb lettuce works best for pliable and tender wraps.
- Make It Colourful: Add shredded carrots or cucumber for extra crunch and colour.
- Chill Ingredients: Serve everything slightly chilled for a more refreshing bite.
- Double The Dressing: Mix nuoc cham and lime juice ahead for quick reuse during the week.
- Minimise Moisture: Pat ingredients dry to avoid soggy wraps.
VARIATIONS
- Vegetarian Swap: Substitute shrimp with tofu or tempeh.
- Add Herbs: Fresh mint, basil or coriander brings brightness and authenticity.
- Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken or poached fish for extra protein.
- Spicy Version: Include thinly sliced red chilli or a dash of sriracha.
- Nutty Note: Sprinkle with crushed peanuts for added crunch and flavour.
PREPPING AND STORAGE
- Best Served Fresh: Assemble just before eating to retain lettuce crunch and noodle texture.
- Make-Ahead Option: Prepare fillings ahead and store them separately in airtight containers.
- Storage: Store components in the fridge for up to 2 days. Avoid form pre-assembling.
- Freezing Not Advised: Due to fresh greens and shrimp, freezing is not recommended.
- Meal Prep Tip: Double the shrimp and noodles to have ready-made ingredients for multiple wraps.