Vietnamese lettuce wraps are everything you could want in a meal—bold, fresh flavors, crisp textures, and a dish that’s as healthy as it is satisfying. This recipe is low in calories yet hearty, packed with protein, fresh vegetables, and garnished with an irresistibly creamy homemade peanut sauce. Perfect for a light, wholesome dinner or an easy appetizer to impress guests.

We carefully crafted this recipe to ensure the perfect balance of flavors—tart lime juice, savory shrimp, crunchy vegetables, and just a hint of spice—all wrapped in crisp, hydrating lettuce leaves. Whether you’re seeking a gluten-free, low-carb option or simply want to eat delicious, nourishing food, these wraps check all the boxes. They’re quick to assemble, naturally wholesome, and bursting with Vietnamese-inspired goodness.

Why These Vietnamese Lettuce Wraps Are Good for You

Low Calorie: With only 320 calories per serving, this dish makes a light yet satisfying meal.
High in Protein: Shrimp adds lean protein, ideal for muscle maintenance and keeping you full.
Vitamin-Packed: Fresh herbs like mint and cilantro, plus crunchy veggies, are loaded with antioxidants and essential vitamins.
Diverse Diets: Naturally gluten-free, with easy modifications for vegan, keto, and nut-free diets (see below).

Wholesome Ingredients for This Vietnamese Lettuce Wraps

Here’s what makes these easy Vietnamese lettuce wraps recipe both nutritious and delicious:

Lettuce Leaves: We used baby romaine for its ideal shape and crunch. Butter or iceberg lettuce also works for gentler, cup-like wraps.
Shrimp: A lean source of high-quality protein, shrimp offers essential omega-3 fatty acids. For a vegan option, swap with marinated tofu.
Fresh Herbs: Mint and cilantro add vibrant flavor and are rich in antioxidants. You can substitute with chives if needed.
Natural Peanut Butter: The base for the sauce, it provides healthy fats and a rich, peanutty flavor. Choose unsweetened for the best results.

Vietnamese Lettuce Wraps Recipe Details

Servings: 4 (as a meal)
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cuisine: Vietnamese
Nutrition: 320 cal, 9 g fat, 40 g carbs, 18 g protein

Vietnamese Lettuce Wraps Ingredients

For the Wraps:
- 300g / 10 oz cooked medium shrimp (peeled)
- 75g / 2.5 oz dried vermicelli noodles
- 12-16 lettuce leaves (baby romaine, iceberg, butter)
- 1 batch of quick-pickled carrots and daikon (see below)
- 2 cucumbers, julienned
- 2 cups bean sprouts
- 2 cups mint leaves
- 2 cups cilantro sprigs
- 1/4 cup roasted peanuts, finely chopped
For the Peanut Sauce:
- 2 tbsp natural peanut butter
- 2 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1-2 tbsp lime juice (or rice vinegar)
- 1/3 cup low-fat coconut milk
- 1 garlic clove, finely grated
- 1 tsp dark soy sauce
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp chili paste (optional)
For the Quick Pickle:
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and cut into thin batons
- 1/2 large daikon, peeled and cut the same
- 1 1/2 cups boiling water
- 4 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 3/4 cup rice vinegar

How to Make Vietnamese Lettuce Wraps

Pickle the Vegetables: Combine boiling water, salt, and sugar in a bowl and stir until dissolved. Add vinegar and submerge carrots and daikon. Let sit for 2 hours, then drain.
Prepare the Peanut Sauce: Whisk all sauce ingredients in a bowl. Taste and adjust lime juice for a tangier flavor. Set aside.
Cook the Noodles: Soak vermicelli in boiling water as per package directions. Rinse under cold water, then drain thoroughly.
Prep the Shrimp: Slice shrimp horizontally and remove veins if needed.
Assemble: Arrange lettuce, shrimp, noodles, veggies, herbs, and toppings on a platter. Let everyone create their perfect wrap.

How to Customize This Vietnamese Lettuce Wraps for Your Diet

High Protein: Add grilled chicken or extra shrimp for a protein boost.
Vegan: Replace shrimp with marinated tofu and swap hoisin for a vegan variety.
Keto-Friendly: Skip the noodles and replace with sautéed zucchini ribbons.
Nut-Free: Use sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter for the sauce.

Our Team’s Tips for the Best Vietnamese Lettuce Wraps

Meal Prep: Chop your veggies and prepare the sauce ahead of time—assembly will be quick.
Storage: Keep components separate in airtight containers to prevent lettuce wilting.
Heat Control: Add chili paste gradually to customize the spice level in your peanut sauce.
Quality Herbs: Use fresh herbs for their full nutritional benefit and vibrant flavor.

Vietnamese Lettuce Wraps FAQs

Can I make these wraps vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply replace the shrimp with marinated tofu or grilled mushrooms for a vegetarian take on this healthy shrimp lettuce wrap recipe.

What lettuce works best for wraps?

We recommend baby romaine or butter lettuce for their sturdiness, but iceberg lettuce also works for crunchier bites.

Can I prepare the peanut sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the homemade peanut sauce for lettuce wraps can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the fridge. Stir well before using.

How can I make this recipe keto-friendly?

For a quick veggie lettuce wrap that’s keto-approved, use zucchini noodles instead of vermicelli, and increase protein by adding chicken or eggs.

We hope you love this vibrant, customizable dish as much as we do! What’s your favorite way to enjoy Vietnamese lettuce wraps? Share your variations in the comments below!