The Turkey Santa Fe Lettuce Wraps are a light and flavorful dish that is perfect for a quick meal or a nutritious snack. They are made with leftover turkey breast and are packed with healthy ingredients like red bell peppers, scallions, corn, and black beans. The wrap is a crispy iceberg lettuce leaf that gives the dish a refreshing crunch. The dressing is a creamy avocado cilantro ranch that ties all the flavors together.
This recipe calls for a few key ingredients that may not be readily available in your pantry. Jarred jalapeno peppers add a nice kick and can be found in the international foods aisle of your supermarket. The avocado cilantro ranch dressing is not a common item and may need to be purchased, but it really elevates the flavor of the wraps. You can find it in the salad dressings aisle.
Ingredients for Turkey Santa Fe Lettuce Wraps
Olive oil: Used as a cooking medium. It has a mild flavor that doesn't overpower the other ingredients.
Red bell peppers: They add a sweet, slightly tangy flavor and a crunch to the wraps.
Scallions: Also known as green onions, they add a mild onion flavor.
Turkey breast: The main protein in the wrap. Leftover turkey breast works perfectly.
Corn: Adds sweetness and texture.
Black beans: They are a great source of fiber and add a nice texture.
Spinach: Adds a layer of freshness and is a good source of vitamins.
Jalapeno peppers: Adds a spicy kick to the wraps.
Cumin: Gives an earthy flavor.
Chili powder: Adds depth and a bit of heat.
Cheese blend: Adds a creamy, cheesy component.
Iceburg lettuce leaves: The 'wrap' of the dish. Adds a crunchy, refreshing bite.
Avocado cilantro ranch dressing: Ties all the flavors together, adding a creamy, tangy element to the wraps.
One reader, Katleen Tavares says:
These turkey Santa Fe lettuce wraps are a game-changer! The combination of flavors and textures is simply amazing. The recipe is easy to follow and the end result is a delicious, healthy meal that the whole family loves. I highly recommend trying it out!
Techniques for Making Turkey Santa Fe Lettuce Wraps
How to sauté the vegetables: Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the red bell pepper and scallions to the pan and sauté for 2 minutes until tender.
How to cook the turkey mixture: Add the diced turkey, corn, black beans, spinach, jalapeno peppers, cumin, chili powder, salt, and cayenne pepper to the pan. Cook for another 3 to 4 minutes, stirring well so the spinach gets mixed in with everything.
How to assemble the lettuce wraps: Place about 1/3 cup of turkey mixture in the center of each lettuce leaf. Top each wrap with 2 tbsp cheese and 1 1/2 tbsp avocado sauce if desired.
How To Make Turkey Santa Fe Lettuce Wraps
Healthy turkey lettuce wraps to fill your hungry self. Use your leftover turkey or even chicken breasts to make this delicious food.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1tspolive oil
- ¼cupred bell peppers,minced
- ¼cupscallions,minced
- 12ozleftover turkey breast,diced small
- ⅔cupcorn,frozen
- ½cupblack beans,canned, rinsed and drained
- ½cupspinach,frozen, thawed and drained
- 2tbspjarred jalapeno peppers,diced
- 1tspcumin
- 1tspchili powder
- ½tspkosher salt
- 1cupreduced fat Mexican cheese blend,shredded
- 8large Iceburg lettuce leaves
- 12tbspAvocado Cilantro Ranch Dressing
Instructions
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Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
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Add the red bell pepper and scallions to the pan and sauté for 2 minutes until tender.
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Add the diced turkey, corn, black beans, spinach, jalapeno peppers, cumin, chili powder, salt, and cayenne pepper to the pan. Cook for another 3 to 4 minutes, stirring well so the spinach gets mixed in with everything.
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Place about ⅓ cup of turkey mixture in the center of each lettuce leaf.
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Top each wrap with 2 tbsp cheese and 1½ tablespoons of avocado sauce if desired.
Nutrition
- Calories: 585.01kcal
- Fat: 39.29g
- Saturated Fat: 11.51g
- Trans Fat: 0.64g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 10.22g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 13.94g
- Carbohydrates: 25.46g
- Fiber: 5.41g
- Sugar: 5.55g
- Protein: 33.97g
- Cholesterol: 100.64mg
- Sodium: 700.66mg
- Calcium: 298.45mg
- Potassium: 842.30mg
- Iron: 3.39mg
- Vitamin A: 151.66µg
- Vitamin C: 19.98mg
Helpful Technique for Making Turkey Santa Fe Lettuce Wraps
When preparing the lettuce wraps, ensure that you choose large, sturdy lettuce leaves that can hold the filling without tearing. Iceberg lettuce is a good choice due to its crisp texture and large, cup-shaped leaves. Additionally, to make the turkey mixture more flavorful, consider sautéing the turkey separately before adding it to the pan with the other ingredients. This will allow it to brown and develop a richer flavor.
Time-Saving Tips for Turkey Santa Fe Lettuce Wraps Recipe
Prep ahead: Prepare and chop all the ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.
One-pot wonder: Consider using a single skillet or pot to minimize clean-up time.
Batch cooking: Make a larger portion and store the extra servings for quick and convenient meals later.
Efficient organization: Arrange your workspace with all the necessary ingredients and tools within reach to avoid unnecessary movement.
Time-saving tools: Utilize kitchen gadgets such as a food processor or mandoline to expedite the prep work.
Multi-tasking: Plan tasks that can be done simultaneously, such as chopping vegetables while the turkey is cooking.
Quick assembly: Opt for simple recipes with minimal steps to speed up the cooking process.
Streamlined cleanup: Clean as you go to minimize the post-cooking mess and save time later.
Substitute Ingredients For Turkey Santa Fe Lettuce Wraps Recipe
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar mild flavor and high smoke point, making it a suitable substitute for olive oil in this recipe.
red bell peppers - Substitute with yellow bell peppers: Yellow bell peppers can be used as a substitute for red bell peppers, providing a slightly sweeter flavor while still adding color and crunch to the dish.
scallions - Substitute with chives: Chives can be used as a substitute for scallions, providing a mild onion flavor and a similar green color to the dish.
turkey breast - Substitute with chicken breast: Chicken breast can be used as a substitute for turkey breast, providing a lean and versatile protein option for the lettuce wraps.
corn - Substitute with peas: Peas can be used as a substitute for corn, adding a slightly sweet and crunchy texture to the dish.
black beans - Substitute with pinto beans: Pinto beans can be used as a substitute for black beans, offering a similar creamy texture and earthy flavor to the dish.
spinach - Substitute with kale: Kale can be used as a substitute for spinach, providing a hearty and nutrient-dense green component to the lettuce wraps.
jarred jalapeno peppers - Substitute with fresh jalapeno peppers: Fresh jalapeno peppers can be used as a substitute for jarred jalapeno peppers, offering a vibrant and spicy kick to the dish.
cumin - Substitute with coriander: Coriander can be used as a substitute for cumin, providing a warm and citrusy flavor to the dish.
chili powder - Substitute with paprika: Paprika can be used as a substitute for chili powder, adding a mild smokiness and vibrant color to the dish.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used as a substitute for kosher salt, providing a similar level of salinity to the dish.
reduced fat mexican cheese blend - Substitute with queso fresco: Queso fresco can be used as a substitute for reduced fat Mexican cheese blend, offering a crumbly and slightly tangy flavor to the lettuce wraps.
iceburg lettuce leaves - Substitute with butter lettuce leaves: Butter lettuce leaves can be used as a substitute for iceberg lettuce leaves, providing a tender and cup-shaped base for the lettuce wraps.
avocado cilantro ranch dressing - Substitute with chipotle lime dressing: Chipotle lime dressing can be used as a substitute for avocado cilantro ranch dressing, offering a zesty and creamy dressing option for the lettuce wraps.
Presenting Turkey Santa Fe Lettuce Wraps
Elevate the lettuce wraps: Carefully arrange the lettuce wraps on a large platter, ensuring they are neatly folded and presented with precision.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle finely chopped cilantro and parsley over the wraps to add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
Incorporate vibrant colors: Arrange the wraps in a way that showcases the colorful ingredients, creating an enticing visual appeal.
Utilize elegant serving dishes: Present the lettuce wraps on sleek, modern serving dishes that complement the vibrant colors of the dish.
Add a touch of sophistication with drizzles: Artfully drizzle the avocado cilantro ranch dressing over the wraps, creating elegant patterns on the plate.
Incorporate edible flowers: Garnish the platter with delicate, edible flowers to add a touch of elegance and sophistication to the presentation.
Create a symmetrical arrangement: Arrange the lettuce wraps in a symmetrical pattern on the platter, showcasing attention to detail and precision in presentation.
Use contrasting textures: Incorporate a variety of textures in the presentation, such as smooth avocado dressing against the crisp lettuce leaves, to create an appealing visual and sensory experience.
Storing and Freezing Turkey Santa Fe Lettuce Wraps
- Let the turkey mixture cool completely before storing or freezing.
- To store in the refrigerator, place the cooled mixture in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
- When ready to serve, reheat the mixture in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, then assemble the lettuce wraps.
- To freeze, transfer the cooled turkey mixture to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, removing as much air as possible.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents, and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
- To thaw, place the frozen mixture in the refrigerator overnight or until completely thawed.
- Reheat the thawed mixture in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
- Assemble the lettuce wraps with the reheated filling, cheese, and avocado sauce just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
How To Reheat Leftover Turkey Santa Fe Lettuce Wraps
To reheat leftover turkey santa fe lettuce wraps, start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that the wraps are heated evenly throughout.
Carefully remove the lettuce leaves from the wraps and set them aside. The lettuce leaves will become soggy if reheated, so it's best to reheat only the turkey filling.
Place the turkey filling in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. This will help to retain moisture and prevent the filling from drying out during the reheating process.
Heat the turkey filling in the preheated oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until it is heated through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature and ensure that the filling is safe to eat.
While the turkey filling is reheating, prepare fresh lettuce leaves for serving. Rinse them under cool water and pat them dry with a paper towel.
Once the turkey filling is heated through, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This will make it easier to handle and prevent the lettuce leaves from wilting when you assemble the wraps.
Spoon the hot turkey filling onto the fresh lettuce leaves and top with your favorite toppings, such as avocado cilantro ranch dressing, shredded cheese, or jalapeno peppers.
If you prefer a crispy texture, you can also reheat the turkey filling in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of olive oil to the skillet and cook the filling for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is heated through and slightly crispy on the edges.
Another option is to reheat the turkey filling in the microwave. Place the filling in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the filling is heated through. Stir the filling halfway through the reheating time to ensure even heating.
Interesting Fact About Turkey Santa Fe Lettuce Wraps
Turkey Santa Fe Lettuce Wraps are a healthy and delicious alternative to traditional wraps. They are a great source of protein and fiber, making them a nutritious choice for a meal. This recipe is also a fantastic way to use up leftover turkey from holiday dinners, reducing food waste. The combination of flavors and textures in these wraps creates a satisfying and enjoyable eating experience. Plus, the use of lettuce leaves instead of tortillas makes this dish low in carbohydrates and suitable for those following a low-carb or gluten-free diet.
Is Making Turkey Santa Fe Lettuce Wraps at Home Cost-Effective?
The cost-effectiveness of this turkey Santa Fe lettuce wraps recipe largely depends on the availability and cost of the ingredients. With leftover turkey, corn, black beans, and spinach as the main components, it can be a budget-friendly option. However, the use of avocado cilantro ranch dressing and reduced fat Mexican cheese blend may increase the overall cost. Considering the nutritional value and the potential to use leftover ingredients, this recipe can be rated 7/10 for cost-effectiveness. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people may range from $15 to $20, making it a reasonably affordable option.
Are Turkey Santa Fe Lettuce Wraps Healthy?
The turkey santa fe lettuce wraps recipe is a relatively healthy option, offering a balance of lean protein, vegetables, and fiber. The use of lettuce leaves instead of tortillas reduces the carbohydrate content and adds a fresh, crisp texture. The inclusion of bell peppers, scallions, spinach, corn, and black beans provides a variety of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. The avocado cilantro ranch dressing adds healthy fats from avocado, which can help with nutrient absorption.
However, there are a few areas where the recipe could be improved to make it even healthier:
- Reduce the amount of cheese used or opt for a lower-fat variety to decrease the saturated fat content
- Use a homemade avocado cilantro ranch dressing to control the ingredients and reduce any added sugars or preservatives
- Increase the amount of vegetables in the filling to boost the fiber and nutrient content
- Choose low-sodium black beans and corn to reduce the overall sodium content of the dish
- Experiment with different spices and herbs to add flavor without relying on salt
By making these small adjustments, you can elevate the nutritional value of the turkey santa fe lettuce wraps while still enjoying a delicious and satisfying meal. The recipe's versatility also allows for easy customization to suit individual tastes and dietary preferences, making it a great option for a quick, healthy lunch or dinner.
Editor's Opinion on Turkey Santa Fe Lettuce Wraps
This Turkey Santa Fe Lettuce Wraps recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. The combination of tender turkey, vibrant vegetables, and zesty spices creates a satisfying and nutritious dish. The use of lettuce leaves as a wrap adds a refreshing and light element to the meal. The incorporation of avocado cilantro ranch dressing provides a creamy and flavorful finish. Overall, this recipe offers a balance of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making it a wholesome and enjoyable option for a light lunch or dinner.
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Why trust this Turkey Santa Fe Lettuce Wraps Recipe:
This recipe uses leftover turkey in a creative and delicious way, reducing food waste. The combination of red bell peppers, scallions, and jalapeno peppers adds a burst of flavor and color. The inclusion of corn and black beans provides a hearty and nutritious element. The use of avocado cilantro ranch dressing adds a creamy and zesty touch. With a blend of Mexican cheese and a variety of spices, this recipe promises a satisfying and flavorful experience.
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