Crisp Lettuce Wraps
Perfectly crisp and cool lettuce cups, ready to be filled with your favorite savory fillings. A healthy, low-carb alternative to traditional wraps or buns, ideal for light lunches or appetizers.
For 4 servings
3 steps.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the lettuce head
- b.Remove any wilted or damaged outer leaves from the head of iceberg lettuce.
- c.Place the lettuce core-side down on a cutting board.
- d.Firmly strike the core against the board to loosen it.
- e.Twist and pull the core out. It should come out in one piece.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Separate and wash the leaves
- b.Hold the lettuce head under cool running water, allowing water to run into the cavity where the core was.
- c.Gently separate the leaves with your fingers. The water pressure helps them come apart without tearing.
- d.Carefully peel off about 12 large, cup-shaped leaves. Wash each leaf individually under cool water.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Crisp the lettuce cups
- b.Fill a large bowl with cold water and add the ice cubes to create an ice bath.
- c.Submerge the separated lettuce leaves in the ice bath for 5-10 minutes. This makes them extra crisp.
- d.Remove the leaves from the ice bath and pat them thoroughly dry with a clean kitchen towel or use a salad spinner.
- e.Stack the crisp lettuce cups with paper towels between them to absorb any remaining moisture and store in the fridge until ready to serve.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For a softer, more pliable wrap, use Butter lettuce or Romaine hearts instead of iceberg.
- 2Ensure leaves are completely dry before storing to prevent them from becoming slimy.
- 3If not using immediately, store the crisp, dry leaves in a zip-top bag with a paper towel in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- 4To save time, you can prepare the lettuce cups a day in advance.
- 5Double-up thinner leaves to create a sturdier wrap for heavier fillings.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Low in Calories
An excellent choice for weight management, as lettuce leaves provide volume and crunch with minimal calories.
High in Water Content
Composed of over 95% water, lettuce helps you stay hydrated throughout the day.
Good Source of Vitamin K
Iceberg lettuce provides Vitamin K, which is essential for blood clotting and bone health.
Low-Carb Alternative
A perfect substitute for bread, tortillas, or buns, making it ideal for low-carb, keto, and gluten-free diets.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, lettuce wraps are very healthy. They are low in calories and carbohydrates, high in water content for hydration, and provide fiber and essential vitamins like Vitamin K and A. They are an excellent substitute for bread or tortillas.