Description

Craving a light, zesty dish that’s packed with Asian-inspired flavors and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner? The Asian Lettuce Wraps recipe is your answer! This dish features lean ground turkey seasoned with a tangy, spicy sauce, wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves with crunchy veggies

Ingredients

To make Asian Lettuce Wraps for 4 servings (12 wraps), you’ll need these key ingredients. Each one adds a layer of flavor or texture to this fresh dish:

Canola Oil (1 tbsp): Used for cooking the turkey, adding subtle richness.
Lean Ground Turkey (1 lb): Light, savory protein that’s the base of the filling.
Jalapeño Pepper (1, seeded and minced): Adds a mild, spicy kick.
Green Onions (2, thinly sliced): Provides a fresh, mild oniony flavor.
Garlic Cloves (2, minced): Brings aromatic, savory depth.
Minced Fresh Basil (2 tbsp): Adds a sweet, herbaceous note.
Lime Juice (2 tbsp): Provides bright, tangy acidity.
Reduced-Sodium Soy Sauce (2 tbsp): Adds savory, umami flavor.
Chili Garlic Sauce (1–2 tbsp): Brings spicy, garlicky heat (adjust to taste).
Sugar or Sugar Substitute (1 tbsp or equivalent): Balances the tangy and spicy flavors.
Bibb or Boston Lettuce Leaves (12): Crisp, tender wraps for the filling.
Medium Cucumber (1, julienned): Adds cool, crunchy texture.
Medium Carrot (1, julienned): Provides sweet crunch and color.
Bean Sprouts (2 cups): Adds fresh, crisp texture.

Substitutions and Variations:

Ground Turkey: Swap with ground chicken, pork, beef, or crumbled tofu for a vegetarian option.
Soy Sauce: Use tamari (gluten-free), coconut aminos, or regular soy sauce if sodium isn’t a concern.
Chili Garlic Sauce: Replace with sriracha, gochujang, or omit for less heat.
Basil: Swap with cilantro, Thai basil, or mint for a different flavor profile.
Lettuce: Use romaine, iceberg, or cabbage leaves for sturdier wraps.
Add-Ons: Top with chopped peanuts, sesame seeds, or sliced avocado for extra flavor and texture.

Why These Ingredients Matter: The turkey provides lean protein, while the veggies and bean sprouts add fiber, vitamins, and crunch. The sauce delivers bold, Asian-inspired flavors, making this a light yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for healthy eating or entertaining.

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Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Turkey Filling

In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp canola oil over medium heat.
Add 1 lb lean ground turkey and cook for 6-8 minutes, breaking it into crumbles, until no longer pink (internal temperature of 165°F).
Add 1 seeded and minced jalapeño, 2 thinly sliced green onions, and 2 minced garlic cloves; cook for 2 minutes longer until fragrant.
Stir in 2 tbsp minced fresh basil, 2 tbsp lime juice, 2 tbsp reduced-sodium soy sauce, 1–2 tbsp chili garlic sauce (to taste), and 1 tbsp sugar (or sugar substitute). Cook for 1-2 minutes until heated through.

Tip: Break the turkey into small crumbles for even cooking, and adjust the chili garlic sauce to your preferred spice level.

Step 2: Prep the Veggies and Lettuce

While the turkey cooks, rinse and pat dry 12 Bibb or Boston lettuce leaves, keeping them whole and intact.
Julienne 1 medium cucumber and 1 medium carrot into thin, matchstick-sized strips.
Measure out 2 cups bean sprouts and set aside with the other toppings.

Tip: Use a julienne peeler or mandoline for quick, uniform veggie strips, and keep lettuce chilled until serving for extra crispness.

Step 3: Assemble the Wraps

Place a spoonful of the turkey mixture (about 2–3 tbsp) in the center of each lettuce leaf.
Top with a few strips of cucumber, carrot, and a small handful of bean sprouts.
Fold the lettuce over the filling, tucking in the sides like a burrito, or leave open for easier eating.

Tip: Don’t overfill the lettuce leaves to prevent tearing; serve extra filling and toppings on the side if needed.

Step 4: Serve

Arrange 3 wraps per plate (for 4 servings) or serve family-style on a platter with toppings in bowls for customization.
Serve immediately with extra chili garlic sauce or soy sauce on the side, if desired.

Tip: Serve fresh to enjoy the crisp lettuce and vibrant veggies at their best.