Crisp Lettuce Cups
Perfectly crisp and fresh lettuce leaves, ready to be filled with your favorite savory fillings. This is the ideal low-carb, gluten-free vessel for everything from spicy chicken to tangy tofu, adding a delightful crunch to every bite.
For 4 servings
3 steps.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the lettuce leaves
- b.Carefully peel the outer leaves from the heads of butter lettuce. Aim to keep them whole and cup-shaped.
- c.Select the 12 best-looking, largest leaves for your cups.
- d.Gently wash the selected leaves under cool running water to remove any dirt.
- e.Pat them dry carefully with a paper towel or use a salad spinner.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Chill the leaves for maximum crispness
- b.Fill a large bowl with cold water and add a generous amount of ice cubes.
- c.Submerge the washed lettuce leaves in the ice water bath for 5 minutes.
- d.This shock of cold water will make them incredibly crisp and refreshing.
- e.Remove the leaves from the ice bath, shake off excess water, and pat dry again before serving.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Serve
- b.Arrange the crisp, dry lettuce cups on a platter, ready to be filled.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best cup shape, trim the tough stem end of each leaf with kitchen shears.
- 2Don't skip the ice bath! It's the secret to getting that signature restaurant-quality crunch.
- 3If you're not serving immediately, store the dried leaves in the refrigerator between layers of paper towels in a zip-top bag.
- 4Stack two smaller leaves together to create a sturdier cup if your lettuce head has smaller inner leaves.
Adapt it for your goals.
Healthy
Use romaine lettuce hearts for a sturdier, more fiber-rich cup.
quickQuick
If you're short on time, skip the ice bath. Just wash, dry, and chill the leaves in the fridge for 15 minutes.
kid friendlyKid friendly
Use smaller, tender leaves from the heart of the lettuce, as they are easier for little hands to manage.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Low in Calories
An excellent choice for weight management as they provide volume and crunch with negligible calories.
Hydrating
Lettuce has a high water content, which helps contribute to your daily hydration needs.
Rich in Vitamin K
Butter lettuce is a good source of Vitamin K, which is essential for blood clotting and bone health.
Gluten-Free and Low-Carb
A perfect natural, whole-food substitute for bread, wraps, or tortillas for those following gluten-free or low-carb diets.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, lettuce cups are very healthy. They are extremely low in calories and carbohydrates, making them a great alternative to tortillas or bread. They are also hydrating and provide some vitamins A and K.