Turkey Santa Fe Lettuce Wraps

If you’re looking for a fresh, flavorful dish that’s perfect for lunch or dinner, look no further than these Turkey Santa Fe Lettuce Wraps. Packed with protein, veggies, and a zesty kick, this recipe makes excellent use of leftover turkey, turning it into a delightful meal that’s both satisfying and light. With minimal prep and cooking time, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time. So, let’s roll up those sleeves and dive into this vibrant dish!

Why This Recipe Works

Turkey Santa Fe Lettuce Wraps are not just a feast for the taste buds but also a healthy choice. Using fresh lettuce leaves as a wrap not only cuts down on calories but also adds a satisfying crunch. The combination of colorful vegetables and spices infuses your turkey with smoky, savory flavors, while the creamy Avocado Cilantro Ranch Dressing brings it all together. This dish is versatile, allowing you to customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover turkey from your last meal!

Ingredient Checklist

• 1 tsp olive oil – for sautéing
• 1/4 cup minced red bell peppers – adds sweetness and crunch
• 1/4 cup minced scallions – provides a mild onion flavor
• 12 oz leftover turkey breast, diced small – the star protein
• 2/3 cup frozen corn – for sweetness and texture
• 1/2 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained – adds fiber and heartiness
• 1/2 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained – for extra nutrition
• 2 tbsp diced jarred jalapeño peppers – to bring the heat
• 1 tsp cumin – for warmth and earthiness
• 1 tsp chili powder – adds depth of flavor
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt – to enhance all the flavors
• 1 cup reduced-fat shredded Mexican cheese blend – for creaminess
• 8 large iceberg lettuce leaves – the wrap base
• 1/2 cup Avocado Cilantro Ranch Dressing – for drizzling

Gear Checklist

• Skillet – to sauté the vegetables and turkey
• Cutting board – for chopping ingredients
• Knife – for dicing and mincing
• Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient amounts
• Large serving platter – to serve your wraps

Turkey Santa Fe Lettuce Wraps: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by dicing your leftover turkey breast into small, bite-sized pieces. Mince the red bell peppers and scallions, and set everything aside. Make sure to thaw and drain the frozen spinach and rinse the black beans. This will help you keep the mixture from becoming too watery.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, toss in the minced red bell peppers and scallions. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes, or until they start to soften and become fragrant.

Step 3: Add Turkey and Spices

Next, add the diced turkey breast to the skillet, along with the thawed spinach, frozen corn, black beans, jalapeño peppers, cumin, chili powder, and kosher salt. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, allowing the turkey to heat through and the flavors to meld.

Step 4: Build Your Wraps

Once your turkey mixture is heated and well-combined, it’s time to assemble your wraps. Take a large iceberg lettuce leaf and spoon a generous amount of the turkey mixture into the center. Sprinkle with the reduced-fat shredded Mexican cheese blend.

Step 5: Drizzle with Dressing

Finally, drizzle the Avocado Cilantro Ranch Dressing over the top of your turkey filling. Add any additional toppings you like, such as more jalapeños or fresh cilantro.

Step 6: Wrap and Enjoy!

Fold the sides of the lettuce over the filling and enjoy your Turkey Santa Fe Lettuce Wraps immediately. They’re best served fresh, but you can also prepare the turkey filling ahead of time and assemble when you’re ready to eat.

International Equivalents

• Turkey Breast – can be substituted with chicken or beef.
• Iceberg Lettuce – can be replaced with romaine or butter lettuce.
• Canned Black Beans – pinto or kidney beans work well too.
• Jalapeño Peppers – use fresh green chilies or banana peppers for a milder flavor.

Missteps & Fixes

Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them:

• Too Watery Filling: Ensure all frozen vegetables are thoroughly drained to prevent excess moisture.
• Overcooked Turkey: If using leftover turkey, be careful not to overheat it. Just warm it through to keep it juicy.
• Too Spicy: If you’re sensitive to heat, consider reducing the jalapeños or omitting them altogether.
• Cheese Not Melting: If you want melted cheese, you can place the filled lettuce wraps under the broiler for a minute.

Save It for Later

If you have leftover turkey filling, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can easily reheat it on the stove or in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy more wraps. The filling also works great as a topping for salads or in a quesadilla!

Questions People Ask

Can I use fresh turkey instead of leftover turkey?

Absolutely! Just cook the turkey breast beforehand, season it well, and then proceed with the recipe as directed.

What other vegetables can I add to the wraps?

Feel free to add diced tomatoes, shredded carrots, or even avocado slices for extra flavor and nutrition.

Can I make these wraps in advance?

The turkey filling can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge. However, it’s best to assemble the wraps just before serving to maintain the crispness of the lettuce.

How can I make these wraps vegan?

To make a vegan version, substitute the turkey with a plant-based meat alternative and replace the cheese with a dairy-free option. You can also add more veggies or legumes for protein.

More Recipes You’ll Love

• Healthy Chicken Salad
• Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole
• Vegan Burrito Bowl
• Best Chocolate Chip Cookies

See You at the Table

These Turkey Santa Fe Lettuce Wraps are a delightful blend of flavors and textures that are sure to impress your family or guests. Not only do they look vibrant on the plate, but they also pack a punch of nutrition and satisfaction. Whether you’re enjoying them as a light lunch or a fun dinner, each bite is a reminder of how delicious healthy eating can be. So, gather your ingredients, whip up this quick and easy recipe, and savor the taste of these wonderful wraps. Enjoy!