Ingredients
- Lettuce Wraps:
- Large Lettuce Leaves: Choose sturdy lettuce varieties that can hold fillings without tearing easily. Excellent options include:
- Butter Lettuce (Boston or Bibb): Soft, pliable, and cup-shaped, making them ideal for burrito wraps. Their mild flavor won’t overpower the fillings.
- Romaine Lettuce: Long, sturdy leaves with a slightly crisp texture. Select the outer leaves, as they are generally larger and more robust.
- Iceberg Lettuce: While less nutritious than other options, iceberg lettuce offers a satisfying crunch and is readily available and affordable. Use the larger outer leaves.
- Green Leaf Lettuce or Red Leaf Lettuce: These offer a milder flavor and softer texture compared to romaine but still work well as wraps.
- Large Lettuce Leaves: Choose sturdy lettuce varieties that can hold fillings without tearing easily. Excellent options include:
- Protein & Filling Base (Choose 2-3):
- Cooked Quinoa: A complete protein source that adds a nutty flavor and satisfying texture. Cooked quinoa can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
- Cooked Brown Rice: Another healthy grain option that provides fiber and carbohydrates for sustained energy.
- Black Beans (Canned or Cooked): Rinsed and drained, black beans are a fantastic source of protein and fiber, adding a creamy texture and earthy flavor.
- Chickpeas (Canned or Cooked): Similarly to black beans, chickpeas offer protein and fiber. They can be mashed slightly for a smoother texture or used whole.
- Lentils (Cooked): Green or brown lentils, cooked until tender, provide a hearty and protein-rich base.
- Tofu (Crumble or Cubed): Firm or extra-firm tofu, crumbled or cubed and lightly pan-fried or baked, adds a substantial protein element. Consider marinating it for extra flavor.
- Tempeh (Crumble or Cubed): Similar to tofu, tempeh provides protein and a firmer, nuttier texture. It can be crumbled or cubed and cooked in a pan or oven.
- Hummus: Creamy hummus acts as both a filling and a binder, adding flavor and moisture. Choose your favorite flavor, from classic to roasted red pepper or garlic.
- Fresh Vegetables (Choose 3-5):
- Diced Tomatoes: Adds juicy freshness and acidity. Cherry tomatoes, grape tomatoes, or Roma tomatoes work well.
- Cucumber (Diced): Provides a refreshing crunch and cool flavor. English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers are less seedy.
- Bell Peppers (Diced): Adds sweetness and color. Red, yellow, orange, or green bell peppers are all excellent choices.
- Carrots (Shredded or Diced): Offers sweetness and crunch. Shredded carrots are particularly easy to incorporate.
- Red Onion (Finely Diced): Adds a pungent bite. Use sparingly if you prefer a milder flavor, or soak in cold water for a few minutes to reduce sharpness.
- Avocado (Diced or Sliced): Adds creaminess and healthy fats. Avocado is best added just before serving to prevent browning.
- Corn (Fresh or Frozen): Adds sweetness and pops of flavor. Grilled corn or roasted corn kernels are particularly delicious.
- Zucchini or Summer Squash (Diced): Lightly sautéed or raw, zucchini and summer squash add a mild flavor and soft texture.
- Spinach or Baby Kale (Chopped): Adds leafy greens for extra nutrients. Baby spinach is particularly tender and easy to use raw.
- Sprouts (Alfalfa, Bean Sprouts, etc.): Adds a delicate crunch and fresh, slightly nutty flavor.
- Flavor Boosters & Dressings (Choose 2-3):
- Salsa: Adds a spicy and flavorful kick. Choose your favorite salsa, from mild to hot, and consider different styles like pico de gallo or roasted tomato salsa.
- Guacamole: Creamy and flavorful, guacamole complements the fresh vegetables perfectly. You can buy pre-made guacamole or make your own.
- Hummus (if not used as a base): Adds a creamy and savory element as a dressing or spread.
- Tahini Dressing: A nutty and slightly bitter dressing made from tahini (sesame seed paste), lemon juice, and water.
- Lemon or Lime Juice: A squeeze of fresh citrus juice brightens the flavors and adds a zesty touch.
- Hot Sauce: For those who like a bit of heat, a dash of your favorite hot sauce adds a fiery kick.
- Fresh Herbs (Chopped): Cilantro, parsley, mint, or basil add freshness and aromatic complexity. Cilantro is particularly popular in burrito-style dishes.
- Vegan Ranch Dressing: A creamy and flavorful vegan alternative to traditional ranch dressing.
- Balsamic Glaze: Adds a touch of sweetness and tanginess.
- Olive Oil and Vinegar: A simple vinaigrette dressing for a light and healthy option.
Instructions
- Prepare Your Lettuce Wraps:
- Carefully separate large, intact lettuce leaves from the head.
- Wash the leaves thoroughly under cold running water.
- Dry the lettuce leaves completely. Gently pat them dry with paper towels or use a salad spinner. Dry lettuce is crucial to prevent soggy burritos.
- Lay Out Your Lettuce Wraps:
- Arrange the lettuce leaves on a clean plate or cutting board, cup-side up. Think of them as your edible burrito “tortillas.”
- Layer in Your Protein & Filling Base:
- Start by adding a spoonful or two of your chosen protein and filling base to the center of each lettuce leaf. Don’t overfill at this stage. Remember, you want to be able to wrap them!
- Examples: Quinoa, brown rice, black beans, chickpeas, lentils, tofu, tempeh, or hummus.
- Add Your Fresh Vegetables:
- Now, layer in your selection of fresh, chopped vegetables on top of the protein base.
- Be mindful of layering for both flavor and texture. Consider adding crunchy vegetables first, followed by softer ones.
- Examples: Diced tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, carrots, red onion, avocado, corn, zucchini, spinach, sprouts.
- Drizzle with Flavor Boosters & Dressings:
- Finish off your lettuce burritos by drizzling or spooning on your chosen flavor boosters and dressings.
- This is where you add extra flavor, moisture, and binding elements.
- Examples: Salsa, guacamole, hummus, tahini dressing, lemon or lime juice, hot sauce, fresh herbs, vegan ranch dressing, balsamic glaze, olive oil and vinegar.
- Wrap and Serve (Optional):
- Gently fold the sides of the lettuce leaf inwards towards the center, then roll up from the bottom, similar to wrapping a traditional burrito.
- However, lettuce wraps can be a bit more delicate than tortillas. If you find them difficult to wrap neatly, you can also serve them open-faced like lettuce cups. They will still be just as delicious!
- Serve immediately for the best freshness and crispness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: one normal portion
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Sugar: 8-12g
- Fat: 18-25g
- Saturated Fat: 3-5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 40-50g
- Fiber: 10-15g
- Protein: 15-20g