Avocado Shrimp Pico de Gallo Lettuce Wraps – Easy Appetizer Idea

Total Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Difficulty Level: Easy

Fresh, vibrant, and irresistibly light, Avocado Shrimp Pico de Gallo Lettuce Wraps are the kind of appetizer that disappears within minutes of hitting the table. Juicy shrimp, creamy avocado, and bright, zesty pico de gallo are layered into crisp lettuce cups for a bite that’s refreshing, flavorful, and perfectly balanced. Each wrap delivers a contrast of textures—cool crunch from the lettuce, tender shrimp, buttery avocado, and bursts of citrusy freshness from the pico—that keeps every bite exciting.

What makes this recipe especially appealing is how effortlessly it comes together while still feeling elevated. There’s no heavy sauce, no frying, and no complicated prep, yet the final result looks colorful, fresh, and party-ready. These lettuce wraps are ideal for warm-weather gatherings, light lunches, summer appetizers, or anytime you want something satisfying without feeling heavy. They’re naturally gluten-free, easy to customize, and loved by seafood fans and fresh-flavor lovers alike.

Serve these wraps as a starter before a larger meal, as part of an appetizer spread, or even as a light main for lunch. They’re bright enough for spring and summer entertaining but versatile enough to enjoy year-round. Each serving comes in at approximately 220–260 calories, making them a feel-good option that doesn’t sacrifice flavor or satisfaction.

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

Key Ingredients for Avocado Shrimp Pico de Gallo Lettuce Wraps

Large Shrimp – Tender, juicy, and quick-cooking, they form the protein-rich base of the wraps.
Olive Oil – Helps the shrimp cook evenly and adds subtle richness.
Garlic – Infuses the shrimp with savory depth and aroma.
Smoked Paprika – Adds mild smokiness and warmth without overpowering freshness.
Chili Powder – Brings gentle heat and complexity.
Salt – Enhances all the flavors and balances acidity.
Black Pepper – Adds subtle spice and depth.
Fresh Lime Juice – Brightens the shrimp and ties the flavors together.
Romaine or Butter Lettuce – Crisp, sturdy leaves that hold fillings while staying light.
Ripe Avocados – Creamy and rich, they balance the acidity of the pico and spice of the shrimp.
Roma Tomatoes – Juicy yet firm, perfect for fresh pico de gallo.
Red Onion – Adds sharpness and crunch to the pico.
Fresh Cilantro – Brings herbal freshness and a pop of green.
Jalapeño – Optional, for a fresh, clean heat in the pico.
Extra Lime Juice – Enhances freshness and prevents avocado browning.
Sea Salt – Finishes the wraps with clean, bright seasoning.

Print

How to Make It (Step-by-Step Method) for Avocado Shrimp Pico de Gallo Lettuce Wraps

Start by preparing the pico de gallo. Finely dice the tomatoes and red onion, then combine them in a bowl with chopped cilantro, minced jalapeño if using, fresh lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Stir gently to combine and set aside to let the flavors meld while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.

Next, prepare the shrimp. Pat them dry with paper towels, then toss in a bowl with olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer. Cook for about 2–3 minutes per side, just until the shrimp turn pink and opaque with lightly golden edges. Remove from heat immediately to avoid overcooking. Finish with a squeeze of fresh lime juice and set aside to cool slightly.

Prepare the avocados by halving, pitting, and dicing them into bite-sized cubes. Toss gently with a bit of lime juice and a pinch of salt to enhance flavor and keep them vibrant.

Wash and dry the lettuce leaves carefully, choosing ones that are intact and cup-shaped. Arrange them on a serving platter to create a base for assembly.

To assemble, spoon a layer of diced avocado into each lettuce cup, followed by a few pieces of warm shrimp. Top generously with pico de gallo, letting some of the juices drizzle over the filling. Finish with an extra sprinkle of cilantro or a pinch of sea salt if desired. Serve immediately for the best texture and freshness.

Serving Suggestions for Avocado Shrimp Pico de Gallo Lettuce Wraps

Avocado Shrimp Pico de Gallo Lettuce Wraps shine in a variety of serving styles, making them perfect for entertaining. For a casual gathering, arrange the assembled wraps on a large platter, slightly overlapping, so guests can easily grab one or two. Garnish the platter with lime wedges and extra cilantro for a fresh, inviting look. These wraps pair beautifully with sparkling water, margaritas, or a crisp white wine, making them ideal for summer parties or outdoor entertaining.

For a more interactive presentation, create a build-your-own lettuce wrap station. Set out bowls of shrimp, avocado, pico de gallo, and lettuce leaves, along with optional toppings like sour cream, Greek yogurt, hot sauce, or crumbled queso fresco. This approach is especially great for groups, allowing everyone to customize their wraps to taste. You can also serve these as part of a larger appetizer spread alongside chips and salsa, guacamole, or grilled vegetables. No matter how they’re presented, these wraps bring color, freshness, and crowd-pleasing flavor to the table.

Storage + Meal Prep for Avocado Shrimp Pico de Gallo Lettuce Wraps

While these lettuce wraps are best enjoyed fresh, they can be partially prepped ahead of time to make entertaining easier. The shrimp can be cooked up to one day in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The pico de gallo can also be prepared a few hours ahead, though it’s best drained slightly before serving to prevent excess moisture.

Avocados should be cut just before assembly for the best color and texture, but if needed, they can be diced a few hours ahead and tossed well with lime juice, then stored tightly covered. Keep lettuce leaves washed, dried, and wrapped in paper towels inside a sealed container to maintain crispness. Assembled wraps do not store well, so plan to assemble just before serving. To refresh leftovers, add a squeeze of lime and a pinch of salt to revive flavors, and enjoy the components separately if needed.

Conclusion

Avocado Shrimp Pico de Gallo Lettuce Wraps are the definition of easy elegance. They’re light yet satisfying, fresh yet flavorful, and visually stunning without requiring hours in the kitchen. With simple ingredients and bold, balanced flavors, this recipe proves that appetizers can be both effortless and impressive.

Whether you’re hosting a party, planning a light lunch, or looking for a fresh appetizer idea that everyone will love, these lettuce wraps are a guaranteed hit. Don’t hesitate to adjust the spice, swap herbs, or add your own twist. Once you try them, they’re sure to become a go-to favorite whenever you crave something bright, fresh, and delicious.