20 Fresh & Savoury Lettuce Wrap Recipes (2024)

FAQs

What is the best lettuce for lettuce wraps? ›

Smoother butterhead lettuce leaves are ideal for wrapping as they're super flexible and wide enough wrap around and keep all the toppings inside. Butterhead lettuce is the key to loading up our peanut-sesame chicken lettuce wraps, caramelized tofu lettuce wraps, and our basil avocado shrimp salad wraps.

Fill a large bowl with very hot tap water (around 120°F) and plunge your wilted greens. Let them soak for 10–30 minutes, then drain. Wrap the leaves in a damp towel and chill before using (or if you need them immediately, cool them down in ice water). They'll be perkier than a Pomeranian with a plushie.

Instead of storing your lettuce in a plastic bag or wrapping it in plastic wrap, simply wrap it tightly in aluminum foil. The foil will help retain moisture in the leaves, keeping them fresh and crisp for much longer.

Lettuce wraps are much lower in calories than bread, and they are very fresh. Corn Tortillas → Corn tortillas tend to be cleaner than regular bread. You can even use a tortilla to replace a pizza crust which is much lighter option.

Fold the bottom edge of the tortilla wrap towards the center, tucking in any of the fillings you have leftover. Roll the wrap, making sure to tuck in any filling that spills out. As you reach the end, spread some sauce over the remainder of the tortilla wrap to help it seal.

You can use any type of green leafy lettuce for lettuce wraps, but popular types of lettuce include Boston bib lettuce and romaine hearts. Cabbage leaves or jicima wraps would also work great.

Airtight food storage containers are the ideal option, as they prevent air and moisture from seeping in and causing the wrap to become soggy or stale. Reusable food containers are also a great choice, as they are eco-friendly and can be used again and again to store wraps and other types of food.

The Keys to Crisp Lettuce

Lettuce actually needs a good amount of airflow, in addition to a bit of moisture (but not too much!), in order to stay crisp. That's why restaurants store their lettuce in special perforated bins that allow for air circulation while it's held in the fridge.

Using the parchment paper as your guide, tightly roll the lettuce up. Start with the end that is closest to you. Once you have begun to roll the lettuce, tuck the ends of the parchment paper towards the center (just like when rolling a burrito). Continue to roll the lettuce wrap.

Iceberg lettuce is the most common crisphead lettuce variety. Look quickly, and you might mistake it for a green cabbage, but it's worlds away in texture and flavor. It's mild and refreshing, like biting into crunchy water.

What are the best leaves for wraps? ›

Whether you are avoiding gluten or not, using leaves as wraps is a great way to cut calories and liven up your lunch or dinner. Kale or collards make super stand-ins for tortillas while Iceberg or butter lettuce leaves make great taco shells or “cups” for Asian-style fillings.

One of the best ways to enjoy iceberg lettuce is make lettuce wraps. This post was updated on 3/12/2024. Disclaimer: Please check that all ingredients are suitable for your allergies and be sure to ask your medical care team regarding any allergy related questions (I do not share medical advice).

While all lettuce is going to provide you with healthy vitamins and minerals, romaine lettuce is the most nutrient-dense, says registered dietitian Danielle Crumble Smith.