Lettuce Cups
The perfect guide to creating crisp, sturdy lettuce cups for your favorite fillings. A fantastic low-carb and gluten-free alternative to bread, these cups are refreshing, crunchy, and ready in minutes.
For 4 servings
Core the lettuce head.
Remove any wilted outer leaves. Place the lettuce on a cutting board with the core facing up. Firmly strike the core against the board, then twist and pull it out. This makes separating the leaves much easier.
TIPIf the core doesn't come out easily, use a small paring knife to carefully cut around it.Rinse the lettuce.
Hold the cored head upside down under cool running water. Let the water run into the head, which will help loosen the leaves from the inside.
TIPAvoid using warm water as it can make the lettuce wilt.Separate and dry the leaves.
- Gently peel the leaves away from the head, starting from the outside. Try to keep them whole to form cup shapes.
- Place the separated leaves in a salad spinner to remove excess water, or pat them dry carefully with paper towels.
- Select the 16 best-looking, cup-shaped leaves for your wraps.
TIPDrying the leaves thoroughly is key to preventing a soggy wrap and helps them stay crisp.Chill and serve.
Arrange the crisp lettuce cups on a platter. For extra crispness, you can chill them in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes before serving with your desired filling.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Choose a firm, heavy head of iceberg lettuce for the best cup-shaped leaves.
- 2Butter lettuce or romaine hearts also work well, offering a softer texture and different flavor.
- 3Prepare the lettuce cups just before serving to ensure they are at their crispiest.
- 4If you have leftover leaves, store them in a zip-top bag with a paper towel to absorb moisture. They'll stay fresh for a few days.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Extremely Low in Calories
Lettuce cups are a fantastic way to enjoy your favorite fillings while keeping the calorie count very low, supporting weight management.
Low-Carbohydrate
As a natural, gluten-free wrap, lettuce is an ideal choice for low-carb, keto, and paleo diets, helping to manage blood sugar levels.
High Water Content
Iceberg lettuce is over 95% water, which contributes to your daily hydration needs and helps you feel full.
Source of Vitamin K
Lettuce provides Vitamin K, an essential nutrient for blood clotting and bone health.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, lettuce cups are very healthy. They are extremely low in calories and carbohydrates, making them an excellent substitute for bread or tortillas. They are also hydrating and provide some vitamins and fiber.