Shrimp Caesar Wraps

This hearty Grilled Shrimp Caesar Wrap has become my weeknight dinner hero when I need something quick yet impressive. The combination of smoky grilled shrimp with classic Caesar flavors wrapped in a warm tortilla creates a portable meal that satisfies every time.

I first created these wraps when hosting an impromptu summer gathering and needed something elegant yet unfussy. They were such a hit that they've become part of my regular rotation, especially when I want to elevate a casual lunch.

Ingredients

• Shrimp 1 pound peeled and deveined offers the perfect protein base. Look for medium to large size for the best texture and flavor.
• Olive oil 2 tablespoons helps the seasonings adhere and prevents sticking on the grill.
• Garlic powder 1 teaspoon provides aromatic flavor without burning like fresh garlic might.
• Paprika 1 teaspoon adds beautiful color and mild smoky flavor.
• Black pepper and salt seasoning basics that enhance the natural sweetness of the shrimp.
• Lemon juice 1 tablespoon brightens the entire dish with necessary acidity.
• Mayonnaise 1/2 cup forms the creamy base of your homemade Caesar dressing.
• Parmesan cheese adds both saltiness and umami to the dressing and as a topping.
• Worcestershire sauce 2 teaspoons delivers that classic Caesar flavor with its anchovy undertones.
• Dijon mustard 1 teaspoon works as both flavor enhancer and emulsifier.
• Fresh garlic 1 clove minced gives the dressing its signature pungent bite.
• Large flour tortillas provide the perfect vehicle for wrapping all ingredients together.
• Romaine lettuce 2 cups chopped delivers essential crunch and the traditional Caesar base.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Marinate the Shrimp

Combine olive oil with all the seasonings in a bowl. Add your peeled shrimp and gently toss until each piece is evenly coated. Let them sit for at least 5 minutes while you prepare other ingredients. The marinade not only flavors but also protects the delicate shrimp from direct heat.

Perfect the Grilling Technique

Preheat your grill to medium high heat about 400°F. Place shrimp directly on clean grates or use a grill basket if your shrimp are smaller. Cook for exactly 2 minutes on the first side until you see pink forming around the edges. Flip once and cook just 1 to 2 minutes more until completely opaque. Overcooked shrimp become tough so watch carefully.

Craft Your Caesar Dressing

Whisk mayonnaise until smooth before adding remaining dressing ingredients. The order matters here start with Parmesan then incorporate lemon juice Worcestershire sauce Dijon and finally minced garlic. This method ensures everything blends perfectly without lumps. Taste and adjust seasoning remembering the Parmesan adds saltiness.

Warm the Tortillas

Place tortillas directly on a dry skillet over medium heat for 15 to 30 seconds per side. They should become pliable and lightly toasted with a few small brown spots. This warming step is crucial as cold tortillas will crack when rolled.

Layer with Precision

Spread about 2 tablespoons of dressing evenly over each warmed tortilla leaving a one inch border around the edge. Place a line of romaine down the center followed by 5 to 6 grilled shrimp. Sprinkle with shaved Parmesan and any optional toppings like bacon or croutons.

Master the Wrap Technique

Fold the bottom edge up over the filling then fold in both sides. Continue rolling from the bottom while keeping the sides tucked in. The result should be a tight cylindrical wrap. If needed secure with toothpicks or wrap in parchment paper to hold shape.

Bookmark

My absolute favorite ingredient in this recipe is the paprika on the shrimp. I discovered this flavor combination during a coastal vacation where a local chef used smoked Spanish paprika on seafood. The subtle smokiness elevates these wraps from good to memorable every time.

Make-Ahead Options

Prepare all components separately up to 24 hours in advance. Store grilled shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Keep the dressing in a jar with a tight lid. Wash and chop romaine but store with a paper towel to absorb excess moisture. When ready to eat simply warm the tortillas and assemble. This approach actually allows the flavors to develop further making for an even more delicious meal.

Clever Substitutions

Transform this recipe to suit dietary needs or pantry limitations. For a gluten free version use corn tortillas or large lettuce leaves instead of flour tortillas. Vegetarians can replace shrimp with grilled halloumi cheese or marinated tofu using the same seasonings. If you cannot find fresh shrimp frozen works perfectly just thaw completely and pat dry before marinating. No grill? A grill pan or even a regular skillet will work fine for cooking the shrimp.

Serving Suggestions

These wraps shine as a standalone meal but also pair beautifully with sides. Serve alongside a light cucumber and tomato salad dressed with lemon and olive oil for a refreshing contrast. For a heartier meal add roasted sweet potato wedges or a simple corn and avocado salad. When entertaining cut the wraps into pinwheels secured with toothpicks for an elegant appetizer option that showcases the colorful layers inside.

Pro Tips

Avoid overcrowding the grill when cooking shrimp. Leave space between each piece to ensure even cooking and proper char marks.

Pat shrimp completely dry before marinating. This prevents steaming and promotes better caramelization during grilling.

Make extra Caesar dressing to keep in the refrigerator for up to one week. It makes an excellent dip for raw vegetables or dressing for other salads.

Recipe Q&A

→ Can I prepare these wraps ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare components ahead of time, but assemble just before eating. Cook and refrigerate shrimp up to 2 days in advance, make dressing up to 5 days ahead, and chop lettuce 1-2 days before. For best results, warm tortillas and assemble wraps right before serving to prevent them from becoming soggy.

→ What's a good side dish to serve with these wraps?

These wraps pair wonderfully with a light side salad, sweet potato fries, or a cup of tomato soup. For a refreshing option, try serving with fruit salad or cucumber slices. If you want something heartier, roasted vegetables or a small portion of pasta salad works great too.

→ How can I make these wraps gluten-free?

To make these wraps gluten-free, substitute regular flour tortillas with certified gluten-free corn or cassava flour tortillas. Also ensure your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free (some brands contain malt vinegar) and use gluten-free croutons or skip them altogether. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

→ Can I use pre-cooked shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use pre-cooked shrimp to save time. Simply toss them in the seasonings (olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper) and warm them in a skillet for about 1-2 minutes until heated through. While fresh-grilled shrimp provides the best flavor, pre-cooked shrimp still makes for a delicious and convenient alternative.

→ How do I prevent my wraps from falling apart?

To keep wraps intact, don't overfill them and place ingredients in the center, leaving about an inch of space around the edges. When rolling, fold in the sides first, then roll from the bottom up while keeping it tight. For extra security, you can wrap the bottom half in parchment paper or aluminum foil, which also makes them easier to eat.

→ What can I substitute for mayonnaise in the Caesar dressing?

Greek yogurt makes an excellent substitute for mayonnaise in the Caesar dressing. Use equal amounts of plain Greek yogurt (preferably full-fat for creaminess) in place of mayo. You might want to add a touch more Parmesan and a bit less lemon juice to balance the tanginess of the yogurt. Avocado or silken tofu can also work as alternatives for different dietary preferences.