I’ve always loved a good Caesar salad, but sometimes I want something a little heartier, handheld, and perfect for lunch on the go. That’s how these Grilled Shrimp Caesar Wraps became a regular in my kitchen. It all started one summer afternoon when I had leftover Caesar salad and a pack of tortillas waiting to be used. Instead of serving the salad in a bowl, I grilled some shrimp, tucked everything inside a warm wrap, and ended up with one of the easiest and most satisfying lunches I’ve ever made. Now, these wraps are my quick solution for busy days when I need something fresh yet filling.
You will love this recipe because it combines the bold flavors of Caesar dressing with smoky, juicy grilled shrimp. The crisp romaine lettuce adds crunch, the Parmesan cheese gives that signature salty bite, and the tortilla keeps it all together for a mess-free meal. It’s light but satisfying, making it perfect for a healthy lunch or a casual dinner.
This recipe is versatile, too. You can switch the protein for grilled chicken or even crispy chickpeas for a vegetarian twist. It works equally well with homemade Caesar dressing or your favorite store-bought version. You can serve it as a wrap, cut it in half as a party appetizer, or turn it into lettuce cups if you want to skip the tortillas.
Best of all, this recipe is affordable. Shrimp is quick to cook and budget-friendly when bought frozen and thawed at home. The rest of the ingredients are simple staples you probably already have — lettuce, Parmesan, Caesar dressing, and tortillas.
Ingredients for Grilled Shrimp Caesar Wraps
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1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
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2 tbsp olive oil
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1 tsp smoked paprika
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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4 large flour tortillas
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4 cups chopped romaine lettuce
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½ cup Caesar dressing
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¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
How to Prepare Grilled Shrimp Caesar Wraps
Preparing these Grilled Shrimp Caesar Wraps is quick, simple, and perfect for any day of the week. The combination of smoky shrimp, crisp lettuce, and creamy Caesar dressing makes each bite flavorful and satisfying. With step-by-step instructions, even beginners can master this recipe without stress.
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Prepare the shrimp: Start by rinsing the shrimp under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. This ensures they sear properly on the grill or skillet. Place the shrimp in a medium bowl.
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Season the shrimp: Drizzle the olive oil over the shrimp and sprinkle with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss the shrimp until they are evenly coated with the seasoning. Make sure each shrimp is fully covered, as this enhances the smoky and savory flavor.
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Preheat the grill or skillet: Turn your grill or a large skillet to medium-high heat. Allow it to heat for about 3–5 minutes. A properly heated surface prevents the shrimp from sticking and ensures perfect grill marks.
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Cook the shrimp: Arrange the shrimp in a single layer on the grill or skillet. Cook for 2–3 minutes on each side until the shrimp turns pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking, as shrimp can become rubbery. Remove from heat and set aside.
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Prepare the lettuce and vegetables: While the shrimp is cooking, chop the romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces and halve the cherry tomatoes if using. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
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Dress the salad: Add the Caesar dressing to the chopped lettuce and toss until every leaf is lightly coated. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top and gently toss again. The dressing should cling to the leaves without making them soggy.
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Assemble the wraps: Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface. Place a generous amount of dressed lettuce in the center, then arrange the grilled shrimp on top. If desired, add cherry tomatoes for a fresh pop of flavor.
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Fold the wrap: Fold the sides of the tortilla over the filling, then roll it tightly from the bottom to form a secure wrap. Make sure the filling stays in place, as this keeps the wrap easy to handle and prevents spilling.
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Serve immediately or store: Serve the wraps warm for the best flavor. If you are preparing them in advance, wrap each tightly in parchment paper and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. This makes them perfect for packed lunches or picnics.
Quick and Easy Tips
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For extra flavor, you can brush the tortillas with a little olive oil and lightly toast them before assembling.
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Use pre-washed lettuce to save time on preparation.
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If you prefer a spicier twist, add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to the shrimp before grilling.
Customizable Options
These wraps are highly customizable. Swap shrimp for grilled chicken, turkey bacon, or even crispy tofu for different textures. You can experiment with different cheeses, like shaved Pecorino Romano, or add avocado slices for creaminess. This versatility makes them suitable for a variety of tastes and dietary preferences.
Popular with Many People
These Grilled Shrimp Caesar Wraps are popular because they are easy to eat, full of flavor, and perfect for meal prep. They make a great choice for lunchboxes, quick dinners, or casual gatherings. The combination of smoky shrimp, crunchy lettuce, and creamy Caesar dressing appeals to both adults and kids alike, making them a hit with everyone.
Print
Grilled Shrimp Caesar Wraps – Fresh, Flavorful & Ready in Minutes!
These Grilled Shrimp Caesar Wraps are a quick, fresh, and satisfying handheld meal. Smoky grilled shrimp pairs perfectly with crisp romaine lettuce, creamy Caesar dressing, and Parmesan cheese, all wrapped in a warm tortilla. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep, this recipe is versatile, affordable, and loved by all ages.
- Total Time: 21 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 4 cups chopped romaine lettuce
- ½ cup Caesar dressing
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
Instructions
- Rinse shrimp under cold water and pat dry. Place in a medium bowl.
- Drizzle olive oil over shrimp. Sprinkle garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss until evenly coated.
- Preheat grill or skillet to medium-high heat for 3–5 minutes.
- Arrange shrimp in a single layer. Cook 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
- Chop romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces and halve cherry tomatoes if using. Place in a large bowl.
- Add Caesar dressing to lettuce and toss lightly. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and toss gently again.
- Lay a tortilla flat. Place a generous amount of dressed lettuce in the center, then top with grilled shrimp and optional tomatoes.
- Fold the sides over the filling and roll tightly from the bottom to form a wrap.
- Serve immediately, or wrap in parchment for storage up to 24 hours in the refrigerator.
Notes
Toast tortillas lightly before assembling for extra flavor.
Pre-washed lettuce saves time.
Add crushed red pepper flakes for a spicier version.
Substitute shrimp with grilled chicken or tofu for variety.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 6
FAQs
1. Can I make these wraps ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the shrimp and lettuce separately and assemble the wraps just before serving. Store the cooked shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Keep the lettuce and dressing separate to prevent sogginess.
2. Can I use a different type of tortilla?
Absolutely. Flour tortillas work best for flexibility, but you can also use whole wheat, spinach, or gluten-free tortillas. Just make sure they are large enough to hold the filling without breaking.
3. How do I prevent the shrimp from overcooking?
Shrimp cook very quickly, usually 2–3 minutes per side. Keep an eye on their color — they should turn pink and opaque. Remove them from heat immediately to maintain a tender texture.
4. Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes. Replace the shrimp with grilled vegetables, crispy chickpeas, or even tofu. Use vegetarian Caesar dressing if needed to keep the flavors authentic.
5. Can I freeze these wraps?
It’s best not to freeze assembled wraps, as the lettuce and dressing can become watery. You can freeze cooked shrimp separately and reheat them quickly before assembling fresh wraps.
6. What can I add for extra flavor?
Consider adding sliced avocado, roasted red peppers, or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a mild kick. Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can also enhance the taste.
7. Are these wraps kid-friendly?
Yes, they are. The combination of shrimp, lettuce, and cheese is mild and appealing to children. For picky eaters, you can cut the wraps into smaller, easy-to-handle pieces.