30-Minute Spicy Sriracha Shrimp Lettuce Cups
Fresh and vibrant lettuce cups filled with sriracha-marinated shrimp, crisp vegetables, and tender rice noodles. The combination of spicy, savory, and fresh elements creates a light yet satisfying meal perfect for lunch or dinner. These handheld wraps offer a healthy alternative to traditional Asian takeout while delivering bold flavors through the sriracha-garlic marinade and fresh herb garnishes.
Ingredients
- 1 pound shrimp
- 2 tablespoon Sriracha sauce
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 head butter or boston lettuce, leaves separated
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 3 scallions, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup cilantro
- ¼ cup soy sauce for drizzling
- 1 pinch coarse salt and freshly ground pepper
- 3 ounces thin rice noodles
Instructions
- 1
Combine shrimp, oil, sriracha sauce and garlic in sealable plastic bag, seal and toss to coat
- 2
Marinate shrimp at least 1 hour in refrigerator
- 3
Heat non-stick pan over medium-high heat
- 4
Arrange shrimp in single layer and sear on one side for 2 minutes
- 5
Flip shrimp and sear 30 more seconds, then remove from pan and set aside
- 6
Add remaining oil to pan and add diced red bell pepper
- 7
Season bell pepper with salt and pepper and saute for 2 minutes until crisp-tender
- 8
Remove pan from heat
- 9
Bring 3 cups water to boil in sauce pan
- 10
Cook rice noodles until soft, 3 minutes
- 11
Drain noodles and rinse under cold water
- 12
Place rice noodles in each lettuce cup
- 13
Add red pepper, then carrots
- 14
Top with 3 or 4 shrimp per cup
- 15
Garnish with scallions and cilantro
- 16
Drizzle soy sauce into each cup
Tips
Marinate shrimp longer for more intense flavor - up to 4 hours works well without over-tenderizing.
Keep lettuce leaves crisp by washing and chilling them before assembly.
Prepare all components ahead and assemble just before serving to prevent soggy lettuce cups.
Good to Know
Refrigerate assembled cups up to 2 hours. Store components separately for up to 2 days.
Marinate shrimp and prep all vegetables up to 1 day ahead. Cook components day of serving.
Serve immediately after assembly at room temperature or slightly chilled.
Common Mistakes
Don't overcook shrimp to avoid rubbery texture.
Pat lettuce leaves completely dry to prevent soggy cups.
Assemble just before serving to maintain crispness.
Substitutions
Gluten-Free Swaps
General Alternatives
FAQ
Can I make these ahead of time?
Prepare all components separately up to a day ahead, but assemble just before serving to keep lettuce crisp and prevent sogginess.
What if I don't have sriracha sauce?
Substitute with chili garlic sauce, hot sauce mixed with a touch of sugar, or sambal oelek for similar heat and flavor.
How long do leftovers keep?
Assembled cups should be eaten within 2 hours. Separate components keep refrigerated for 2-3 days and can be reassembled fresh.