Shrimp wraps are the perfect combination of flavor, texture, and convenience. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, an easy dinner, or a healthy meal on the go, shrimp wraps offer a light yet satisfying option. With juicy, seasoned shrimp, fresh vegetables, and a delicious sauce all wrapped in a soft tortilla, they’re an irresistible fusion of taste and nutrition.
Not only are shrimp wraps incredibly easy to make, but they’re also versatile—you can customize them with your favorite flavors, from garlic butter shrimp to spicy Cajun-style wraps or even a creamy avocado shrimp wrap. Plus, shrimp is a lean protein that’s packed with omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals, making these wraps both delicious and nutritious.
Why You’ll Love Shrimp Wraps
✔ Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes!
✔ Healthy & Nutritious – High in protein, low in calories.
✔ Customizable – Add your favorite veggies, sauces, and seasonings.
✔ Perfect for Meal Prep – Make ahead and enjoy later.
In this article, you’ll discover:
- The best shrimp to use for wraps
- How to cook shrimp perfectly
- Mouthwatering shrimp wrap recipes
- Best sauces and sides to complement your meal
Ready to make the perfect shrimp wrap? Let’s start by choosing the best ingredients!
Choosing the Best Ingredients
To make the perfect shrimp wrap, selecting fresh, high-quality ingredients is essential. From the shrimp to the tortilla and toppings, each component plays a role in creating a flavorful, well-balanced wrap.
1. Best Shrimp for Wraps
Not all shrimp are the same! Choosing the right size and type ensures a tender and juicy wrap filling.
Best Types of Shrimp
- Jumbo (16-20 count) or Large (21-25 count) shrimp – Ideal for wraps as they are meaty and flavorful.
- White Shrimp – Mild, sweet flavor and a firm texture.
- Pink Shrimp – Slightly sweeter and tender, perfect for a light wrap.
- Tiger Shrimp – Bold, slightly briny flavor, great for spicy wraps.
Avoid:
- Small shrimp (51-60 count) – They can get lost in the wrap and overcook easily.
- Pre-cooked shrimp – They tend to be rubbery and lack fresh flavor.
2. Best Tortillas for Shrimp Wraps
The wrap itself is just as important as the filling. Choosing the right tortilla ensures a sturdy, yet soft and flexible wrap.
Best Options:
- Flour tortillas (8-10 inches) – Soft and pliable, perfect for wrapping.
- Whole wheat tortillas – A healthier option with added fiber.
- Spinach or tomato tortillas – Great for extra flavor and color.
Avoid:
- Corn tortillas – Too stiff and prone to breaking.
- Thin, low-quality tortillas – They tend to tear when rolling the wrap.
3. Best Vegetables & Fillings for Shrimp Wraps
A good shrimp wrap should have crunchy, fresh, and colorful vegetables for texture and flavor.
Best Toppings:
- Lettuce or spinach – Adds a fresh crunch.
- Tomatoes – Juicy and slightly sweet.
- Avocado – Creamy and rich.
- Red onion – Adds sharpness and a hint of spice.
- Bell peppers – Crunchy and sweet.
- Cucumber – Refreshing and hydrating.
4. Best Sauces for Shrimp Wraps
A great sauce ties everything together and enhances the flavors.
Best Sauces:
- Garlic aioli – Rich and garlicky.
- Spicy mayo – A creamy sauce with a kick.
- Chipotle sauce – Smoky and bold.
- Tzatziki – Cool and refreshing.
Now that we’ve covered the essential ingredients, let’s move on to how to prepare shrimp for wraps!
How to Prepare Shrimp for Wraps
Proper preparation is key to making flavorful, juicy shrimp that will elevate your wraps. Follow these steps to ensure your shrimp are cleaned, seasoned, and cooked to perfection.
1. How to Clean and Devein Shrimp
Before cooking, shrimp must be cleaned properly to remove any grit or unwanted flavors.
Step 1: Peel the Shrimp
- If using shell-on shrimp, peel off the outer shell while leaving the tail on or off, depending on your preference.
Step 2: Devein the Shrimp
- Use a small knife or shrimp deveiner to make a shallow cut along the back of the shrimp.
- Remove the dark vein (the digestive tract) by pulling it out or rinsing under cold water.
Step 3: Rinse and Pat Dry
- Rinse the shrimp under cold running water to remove any remaining debris.
- Pat them completely dry with paper towels—this ensures better seasoning adhesion and proper searing.
2. Best Seasonings for Shrimp Wraps
The right seasoning can take your shrimp wraps to the next level!
✅ Classic Garlic Butter Seasoning:
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp paprika
✅ Spicy Cajun Seasoning:
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper
- ½ tsp salt
✅ Zesty Lemon Herb Seasoning:
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
3. Best Marinades for Shrimp Wraps
For extra flavor, marinate shrimp for 15-20 minutes before cooking.
Garlic Lemon Marinade
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Spicy Chipotle Marinade
- 2 tbsp chipotle sauce
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- ½ tsp cumin
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
4. Should You Marinate Shrimp?
Shrimp absorbs flavors quickly, so short marinades work best (15-20 minutes).
❌ Avoid over-marinating—longer than 30 minutes can make shrimp mushy.
Now that the shrimp are cleaned and seasoned, let’s move on to the best cooking methods for shrimp wraps!
Best Cooking Methods for Shrimp Wraps
Cooking shrimp the right way ensures they remain juicy, tender, and full of flavor. Here are the best methods to prepare shrimp for wraps, along with tips to avoid overcooking.
1. Sautéing (Quick & Easy Method)
Sautéing is the fastest and easiest way to cook shrimp for wraps. It gives them a slight crispness on the outside while keeping them juicy inside.
How to Sauté Shrimp for Wraps
✅ Heat 1 tbsp olive oil or butter in a large pan over medium-high heat.
✅ Add seasoned shrimp in a single layer, making sure they don’t overlap.
✅ Cook for 2-3 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for 1-2 more minutes.
✅ Remove from the pan as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
Pro Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan—shrimp should have enough space to cook evenly.
2. Grilling (Best for a Smoky Flavor)
Grilling shrimp gives them a slight char and smoky depth, making them perfect for wraps.
How to Grill Shrimp for Wraps
✅ Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (375-400°F).
✅ Thread shrimp onto skewers (or use a grill basket) to prevent them from falling through the grates.
✅ Brush shrimp with olive oil to prevent sticking.
✅ Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, flipping once.
Pro Tip: Use metal or soaked wooden skewers to keep shrimp secure while grilling.
3. Air Frying (Healthy & Convenient)
Air frying is a great low-oil option that still delivers a crispy texture.
How to Air Fry Shrimp for Wraps
✅ Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
✅ Toss shrimp with 1 tbsp olive oil and seasonings.
✅ Arrange in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
✅ Cook for 6-8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
4. Baking (Great for Large Batches)
Baking is hands-off and perfect if you’re making shrimp wraps for multiple people.
How to Bake Shrimp for Wraps
✅ Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
✅ Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread shrimp in a single layer.
✅ Drizzle with olive oil and season as desired.
✅ Bake for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Pro Tip: Shrimp are done when they turn pink and curl into a “C” shape. Overcooked shrimp will form an “O” shape and become rubbery.
Now that the shrimp are cooked, let’s move on to delicious shrimp wrap recipes!
Classic Garlic Shrimp Wrap Recipe
This classic garlic shrimp wrap is packed with juicy, buttery shrimp, crisp vegetables, and a creamy garlic sauce, all wrapped in a soft tortilla. It’s quick, easy, and bursting with flavor, making it the perfect meal for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp:
- ½ lb (225g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp paprika
- Juice of ½ lemon
For the Wraps:
- 2 large flour tortillas
- 1 cup lettuce (romaine or spinach), chopped
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ avocado, sliced
- ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
For the Garlic Sauce:
- ¼ cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- ½ tsp honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Shrimp
- Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add shrimp, then season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
- Squeeze in lemon juice, toss to coat, then remove from heat.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Sauce
- In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), garlic, lemon juice, and honey.
- Season with salt and pepper, then stir until smooth.
Step 3: Assemble the Wraps
- Lay a flour tortilla flat on a clean surface.
- Spread garlic sauce evenly over the center.
- Add lettuce, tomatoes, avocado, and red onion.
- Top with cooked shrimp.
- Fold the bottom of the tortilla over the filling, then roll tightly.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy
- Cut the wrap in half and serve with extra garlic sauce on the side.
- Pair with fries, coleslaw, or a light salad.
Pro Tips for the Best Shrimp Wraps
✅ Use warm tortillas for easier wrapping—heat them for 10 seconds in a dry pan.
✅ Don’t overfill the wrap, or it may tear when rolling.
✅ Serve immediately for the best texture and freshness.
Spicy Cajun Shrimp Wrap Recipe
For those who love bold, smoky, and slightly spicy flavors, this Cajun shrimp wrap is a must-try! It’s packed with juicy Cajun-seasoned shrimp, crisp veggies, and a creamy, tangy sauce, all wrapped in a warm tortilla.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp:
- ½ lb (225g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for spice level)
- ½ tsp salt
- Juice of ½ lime
For the Wraps:
- 2 large flour tortillas
- 1 cup romaine lettuce, chopped
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
- ½ cup shredded cheese (cheddar or pepper jack)
For the Spicy Sauce:
- ¼ cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp hot sauce (such as Sriracha or Louisiana hot sauce)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp lime juice
- Salt to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Cajun Shrimp
- In a bowl, toss shrimp with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and salt.
- Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and slightly charred.
- Squeeze in lime juice for extra zest, then remove from heat.
Step 2: Make the Spicy Sauce
- In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), hot sauce, garlic powder, and lime juice.
- Stir well and season with salt to taste.
Step 3: Assemble the Wraps
- Lay a warm flour tortilla on a clean surface.
- Spread a generous amount of spicy sauce over the center.
- Add lettuce, tomatoes, red onion, and shredded cheese.
- Top with Cajun shrimp.
- Fold and roll the tortilla tightly.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy
- Slice the wrap in half and serve with extra spicy sauce on the side.
- Pair with sweet potato fries, tortilla chips, or a fresh mango salsa.
Pro Tips for the Best Spicy Cajun Shrimp Wraps
Adjust cayenne pepper and hot sauce based on your spice preference.
Use pepper jack cheese for extra heat and flavor.
Grill the wrap for 1-2 minutes per side for a crispier texture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What to eat with shrimp wraps?
Shrimp wraps pair well with light and refreshing sides that balance the flavors. Some great options include:
✅ Coleslaw – Adds crunch and a tangy contrast.
✅ Sweet Potato Fries – A slightly sweet and crispy complement.
✅ Mango Salsa – A fresh, tropical touch.
✅ Quinoa Salad – A protein-packed, healthy side.
✅ Corn on the Cob – A classic, buttery side for seafood dishes.
How do you make a good wrap?
A great wrap should be flavorful, well-balanced, and easy to eat. Here’s how to make the perfect shrimp wrap:
✅ Use fresh, high-quality ingredients – This enhances the overall taste.
✅ Warm the tortilla slightly – Makes it more flexible and prevents tearing.
✅ Spread sauce evenly – This ensures every bite is flavorful.
✅ Layer ingredients properly – Start with greens, add shrimp, then toppings.
✅ Don’t overfill – Too many ingredients make the wrap hard to roll.
✅ Fold tightly – Tuck in the sides and roll firmly for a secure wrap.
How many calories in a spicy shrimp wrap?
The calorie count depends on the ingredients, but a spicy shrimp wrap typically contains 350-450 calories per serving. Here’s a rough breakdown:
- Shrimp (½ lb) – ~160 calories
- Flour tortilla – ~150 calories
- Spicy sauce (mayo + hot sauce) – ~80 calories
- Vegetables (lettuce, tomatoes, onions) – ~30 calories
To reduce calories, opt for whole wheat tortillas, Greek yogurt-based sauces, and extra veggies.
What should I pair shrimp with?
Shrimp pairs well with a variety of ingredients for different flavor profiles:
✅ Citrus (lemon, lime, orange) – Enhances the freshness of shrimp.
✅ Avocado – Adds creaminess and richness.
✅ Garlic & Butter – A classic seafood pairing.
✅ Spicy Cajun or Chipotle Flavors – Bold seasoning that complements shrimp.
✅ Rice or Quinoa – A filling and nutritious base.
What are good sides for wraps?
The best sides for shrimp wraps are light, crispy, or fresh dishes that balance the wrap’s flavors. Some great choices include:
✅ Garden Salad – A refreshing, low-calorie side.
✅ Tortilla Chips & Guacamole – A crunchy, creamy pairing.
✅ Roasted Vegetables – Adds warmth and a healthy touch.
✅ Fruit Salad – A sweet and refreshing option.
✅ Cucumber Yogurt Dip – A cool and tangy complement.
Conclusion
Shrimp wraps are a versatile, quick, and delicious meal that can be customized with different flavors, fillings, and sides. Whether you love garlic butter, Cajun spice, or creamy avocado, there’s a shrimp wrap recipe for you!