Turkey Santa Fe Lettuce Wraps
If you’re on the hunt for a fresh, healthy, and absolutely delicious meal, look no further than these Turkey Santa Fe Lettuce Wraps! This recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, offering a satisfying crunch from the lettuce and a savory filling that’s both hearty and nourishing. Perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner, these wraps are packed with protein and veggies, making them a wholesome choice for any day of the week. Plus, they are incredibly easy to make, whether you’re using leftover turkey or prepping ahead for the week.
What Makes This Recipe Special
What sets Turkey Santa Fe Lettuce Wraps apart from your standard wrap is the vibrant combination of ingredients that come together to create a fiesta in your mouth! The diced turkey provides a lean protein base while the colorful veggies add a refreshing crunch. The spices, including cumin and chili powder, infuse the mixture with warmth and depth. Topped off with a creamy Avocado Cilantro Ranch Dressing, these wraps are sure to become a staple in your meal rotation.
Gather These Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup minced red bell peppers
- 1/4 cup minced scallions
- 12 oz leftover turkey breast, diced small
- 2/3 cup frozen corn
- 1/2 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1/2 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained
- 2 tablespoons diced jarred jalapeno peppers
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 cup reduced fat shredded Mexican cheese blend
- 8 large iceberg lettuce leaves
- 1/2 cup Avocado Cilantro Ranch Dressing
Hardware & Gadgets
- Skillet – for sautéing the ingredients.
- Mixing bowl – to combine your filling ingredients.
- Measuring spoons and cups – for accurate ingredient measurements.
- Spoon or spatula – for mixing and serving.
Turkey Santa Fe Lettuce Wraps in Steps
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Begin by heating the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced red bell peppers and scallions. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they are tender and fragrant.
Step 2: Add the Turkey and Spices
Next, add the diced turkey breast to the skillet. Stir in the frozen corn, black beans, and thawed spinach. Sprinkle in the cumin, chili powder, and kosher salt. Mix well and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until everything is heated through.
Step 3: Incorporate the Jalapeños and Cheese
Once heated, add the diced jalapeño peppers and shredded Mexican cheese blend into the turkey mixture. Stir until the cheese is melted and everything is well combined.
Step 4: Prepare the Lettuce Wraps
While the filling is cooling slightly, carefully separate the iceberg lettuce leaves. Rinse them under cold water and pat dry. These leaves will serve as your delightful wraps!
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
To serve, spoon a generous amount of the turkey mixture into each lettuce leaf. Drizzle with Avocado Cilantro Ranch Dressing for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy your Turkey Santa Fe Lettuce Wraps immediately!
Make It Diet-Friendly
- Use low-fat cheese or omit cheese altogether for a lighter option.
- Swap out the turkey for shredded chicken or a plant-based protein for a different twist.
- Try using whole grain or gluten-free wraps if you prefer something other than lettuce.
- Reduce the amount of jalapeños for a milder flavor, perfect for those sensitive to spice.
Frequent Missteps to Avoid
- Overcooking the vegetables can lead to a mushy filling; aim for tender-crisp.
- Not draining the canned beans and thawed spinach can add excess moisture to the filling.
- Using small lettuce leaves can make wrapping difficult; opt for large, sturdy leaves for better structure.
- Skipping the cooling step can make the lettuce wilt; allow the filling to cool slightly before assembling.
Make Ahead Like a Pro
Turkey Santa Fe Lettuce Wraps are perfect for meal prep! Prepare the turkey filling in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat the filling, wash your lettuce leaves, and assemble your wraps. You can also prepare the Avocado Cilantro Ranch Dressing ahead of time and store it in the fridge for added convenience.
Quick Q&A
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh spinach can be used in place of frozen. Just chop it finely and add it to the mixture towards the end of cooking to retain its vibrant color and nutrients.
What can I serve with these wraps?
These Turkey Santa Fe Lettuce Wraps pair wonderfully with a side of fresh fruit, a light salad, or even some homemade tortilla chips for a crunchy contrast.
Can I freeze the turkey filling?
Yes! The turkey filling can be frozen for up to three months. Just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
What if I don’t have leftover turkey?
No problem! You can easily cook fresh turkey breast or use ground turkey as a substitute. Just cook it through before adding the other ingredients.
Healthy-ish Favorites
The Last Word
Turkey Santa Fe Lettuce Wraps are not just a meal; they are an experience. With the perfect blend of spices, fresh ingredients, and a creamy dressing, this dish brings together all the flavors you love in a fun, wrap format. Whether you’re looking to use up leftovers or just want something fresh and exciting on your plate, these wraps are the answer. They are versatile, healthy, and most importantly, delicious! So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and dive into the wonderful world of Turkey Santa Fe Lettuce Wraps!
Turkey Santa Fe Lettuce Wraps
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by heating the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced red bell peppers and scallions. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they are tender and fragrant.
- Next, add the diced turkey breast to the skillet. Stir in the frozen corn, black beans, and thawed spinach. Sprinkle in the cumin, chili powder, and kosher salt. Mix well and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until everything is heated through.
- Once heated, add the diced jalapeño peppers and shredded Mexican cheese blend into the turkey mixture. Stir until the cheese is melted and everything is well combined.
- While the filling is cooling slightly, carefully separate the iceberg lettuce leaves. Rinse them under cold water and pat dry. These leaves will serve as your delightful wraps!
- To serve, spoon a generous amount of the turkey mixture into each lettuce leaf. Drizzle with Avocado Cilantro Ranch Dressing for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy your Turkey Santa Fe Lettuce Wraps immediately!
Notes
- Use low-fat cheese or omit cheese for a lighter option.
- Swap out the turkey for shredded chicken or plant-based protein for a different twist.
- Use fresh spinach instead of frozen for vibrant color and nutrients.
