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Grilled Shrimp Caesar Wraps are my answer to fast weeknight cravings when I want something light and fresh but loaded with flavor. Inspired by classic Caesar salad and a love for perfectly charred seafood, these wraps combine juicy grilled shrimp and creamy dressing all rolled up with crisp lettuce. They are satisfying for lunch or dinner and fit easily into busy routines.
The first time I brought these wraps to a summer picnic they disappeared within minutes. My husband asks for them every time shrimp goes on sale because they genuinely taste like something you would order at a seaside café.
Ingredients
- Shrimp: About one pound peeled and deveined gives this wrap its main protein and cooks very quickly over high heat. Choose fresh or thaw frozen shrimp and pat dry for the best sear.
- Olive oil: Just a couple tablespoons coat the shrimp and help keep them juicy while grilling. Use extra virgin if possible for a richer taste.
- Garlic powder: Infuses the shrimp with savory depth. Make sure it is fresh and aromatic for best results.
- Paprika: Adds mild heat and a smoky color. Opt for sweet or smoked Spanish paprika for extra flavor.
- Black pepper: Freshly cracked if possible brings a gentle kick to every bite.
- Salt: Brightens the seasonings and balances the lemon juice. Use kosher or sea salt for even distribution.
- Lemon juice: Fresh squeezed gives both marinade and dressing a tangy brightness. Roll the lemon before cutting to get the most juice.
- Mayonnaise: Forms the creamy base of the dressing. Full fat yields the richest flavor but light versions work well too.
- Parmesan cheese: Both grated in the dressing and shaved in the wrap lends a classic Caesar punch. Buy a wedge and grate or shave it yourself for best results.
- Worcestershire sauce: Provides umami complexity in the dressing
- Dijon mustard: Is the subtle heat and backbone of a good Caesar dressing
- Garlic clove: One large fragrant and finely minced goes straight into the sauce for maximum punch
- Salt and pepper: Season to taste in both shrimp and dressing so adjust as needed
- Flour tortillas: Large size allows plenty of room for fillings. Feel tortillas before buying and choose ones that feel soft and pliable
- Romaine lettuce: Crisp chopped leaves offer crunch and fresh contrast
- Croutons: Totally optional but they add classic Caesar crunch. Use store bought or homemade from toasted bread
- Bacon: Optional but highly encouraged for added smokiness and texture. Cook and crumble fresh for best flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp:
- In a large mixing bowl coat the cleaned shrimp with olive oil garlic powder paprika salt and black pepper. Toss everything thoroughly to ensure even coverage. Grill shrimp over medium high heat about two to three minutes per side until the shrimp turns pink and slightly charred. Remove from heat and set aside. This quick grill locks in juiciness and gives every bite a tender snap.
- Prepare the Caesar Dressing:
- Combine mayonnaise grated Parmesan fresh lemon juice Worcestershire sauce Dijon mustard and minced garlic in a bowl. Whisk vigorously until smooth and creamy. Taste then season with salt and pepper as needed. The dressing should be tangy with a savory finish and a hint of garlic bite. This step can be made up to two days in advance and kept chilled.
- Warm the Tortillas:
- Place flour tortillas on a hot dry skillet one at a time. Heat each for about thirty seconds per side just until soft and flexible. This prevents cracking when rolling and warms the wrap for a better texture.
- Assemble the Wraps:
- Lay warmed tortillas out flat and spread each with a generous spoonful of Caesar dressing. Pile grilled shrimp evenly across the center then top with chopped romaine lettuce shaved Parmesan and optional toppings like crumbled bacon and croutons. For rolling fold the sides of the tortilla inward and roll tightly from the bottom up like a burrito.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Slice each wrap in half diagonally for a neat presentation and serve immediately. These wraps are best eaten fresh when the lettuce is crisp and the shrimp are still slightly warm.
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I always reach for fresh lemon to finish this dish because it brightens every bite. My kids love piling on their own toppings and claim the bacon crumbly bits as the best part. This recipe has become our go to Friday family dinner when we crave something fun and fast without sacrificing quality.
Storage tips
For best results store all components separately. Keep leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Tortillas and dressing also hold well on their own. Assembled wraps can be made a few hours ahead but the lettuce may lose its crunch. Wrap them tightly in foil or waxed paper for quick packed lunches.
Ingredient substitutions
If shrimp is out of season or not your style swap in grilled chicken breast cubes or even roasted chickpeas for a plant based twist. Greek yogurt can lighten up the dressing instead of mayonnaise. Try kale or baby spinach in place of romaine. Turkey bacon works if you want a leaner topping.
Serving suggestions
Serve these wraps with a side of kettle chips or a summery fruit salad for a well rounded meal. Turn them into smaller halves for party platters or tailgate bites. If you want to double up on veggies add thinly sliced cucumber or roasted red peppers to the filling.
Cultural history
Grilled Caesar wraps riff on the iconic Caesar salad which originated in Tijuana in the nineteen twenties. Restaurants have taken the classic flavors of romaine Parmesan and zesty dressing and reimagined them as wraps for convenient handheld meals. The addition of shrimp and smoky toppings keeps the flavor fresh and crowd pleasing.
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Grilled Shrimp Caesar Wraps deliver everything I love in a weeknight meal bold flavor speedy cooking and lots of room for customization. Once you taste the homemade Caesar dressing with smoky shrimp you will find yourself craving this wrap again and again.
Common Questions
- → How do I keep grilled shrimp juicy?
Cook shrimp over medium-high heat just until they turn pink and opaque, usually 2-3 minutes per side, to avoid drying them out.
- → Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
Yes, but briefly warm them on the grill or skillet to enhance flavor before assembling your wraps.
- → What can I substitute for flour tortillas?
Whole wheat, spinach, or gluten-free tortillas all work well as alternatives for these wraps.
- → How can I make the Caesar dressing lighter?
Use Greek yogurt in place of mayonnaise for a tangy, lower-calorie Caesar-inspired dressing.
- → What other toppings work well?
Try sliced avocado, fresh tomatoes, or roasted peppers for extra flavor and color.