Turkey Lettuce Wraps Peanut Sauce

Turkey Lettuce Wraps with Peanut Sauce are a quick and satisfying way to bring bold flavors to the table while keeping things light. Ground turkey simmers with crisp vegetables, then everything gets bundled in cool lettuce leaves and finished with a creamy peanut sauce. These are perfect for busy weeknights or as a fresh party appetizer.

You will not believe how easy these wraps come together or how quickly they disappear at my house. I made these for a summer potluck once and now my friends beg me to bring them to every gathering.

Ingredients

• Ground turkey: brings lean protein and absorbs all the flavors from the sauce Look for turkey that is pink with no gray spots for the freshest taste
• Butter lettuce: provides the perfect tender wrap Be sure to select heads with leaves that are green and crisp not wilted
• Red bell pepper: adds crunch and sweetness Pick firm peppers with smooth glossy skin
• Carrot: gives mild sweetness and more crunch Choose carrots that are bright orange and not soft
• Green onions: finish everything with color and mild sharpness Opt for fresh bunches with firm bulbs and green tops
• Peanut butter: is the foundation of the sauce Creamy is classic but crunchy adds extra texture Use natural peanut butter with just peanuts and salt when possible
• Soy sauce: brings umami and saltiness Use gluten free tamari if needed Check for a dark rich color
• Honey: balances the sauce with natural sweetness Raw honey gives even deeper flavor
• Lime juice: brightens every bite Squeeze your own for the best taste
• Sesame oil: adds depth with its toasty aroma Smell it before buying to be sure it is fragrant
• Water: thins the sauce so it coats the filling Filtered water works best
• Chopped cilantro: lifts everything with freshness Only use leaves that look bright and perky
• Crushed peanuts: deliver crunch If you are short on time buy roasted peanuts and crush them yourself for best flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Turkey:

Set a large skillet over medium heat Add the ground turkey and break it up with a spoon Cook gently for about eight minutes stirring occasionally until it is no longer pink and has a light golden color on some bits Letting it brown adds deep flavor

Add the Vegetables:

Toss in the diced red bell pepper and grated carrot Keep everything over medium heat Stir and cook for three minutes until the veggies look glossy and just softened This keeps their fresh texture

Make the Peanut Sauce:

While the turkey cooks whisk together peanut butter soy sauce honey lime juice sesame oil and a little water in a bowl Start with one tablespoon water then add more as needed so the sauce becomes smooth and drizzly Taste if you like it sweeter add a bit more honey

Assemble the Wraps:

Lay out your lettuce leaves on a clean plate Spoon a line of turkey mixture into each leaf Drizzle with a generous spoonful of peanut sauce

Garnish and Serve:

Sprinkle sliced green onions chopped cilantro and crushed peanuts over the wraps if you love extra crunch Tuck the filling gently and roll into bundles Enjoy right away while everything is still crisp

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My kids love piling on their favorite toppings and race to see who can roll the tightest wrap Their giggles always remind me food is about fun and connection The fresh cilantro is my favorite touch and I grow a little pot of it right on my kitchen sill just for these wraps

How to Store Leftovers

Store the turkey mixture and veggies separately from the lettuce leaves in airtight containers in the refrigerator They will keep for up to three days Reheat the turkey filling gently in a skillet or microwave before assembling fresh wraps each time This way the lettuce always stays crisp

Smart Swaps

If you are out of ground turkey ground chicken or even firm tofu crumbles work well For a nut free version substitute sunflower seed butter and toasted pumpkin seeds Use romaine hearts in place of butter lettuce for a crunchier bite If honey is not on hand a splash of maple syrup does the trick

Serving Ideas

These wraps stand alone or pair beautifully with a side of jasmine rice or a crisp cucumber salad For parties line up all the fillings and toppings so everyone can build their own I also like them for lunchbox meals Pack the components separately and assemble right before eating

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A Dish Inspired by Asian Flavors

These lettuce wraps take their cues from Thai and Vietnamese cuisine where lettuce and herbs make the meal light and vibrant The peanut sauce is a classic pairing seen in street food across Asia I grew up tasting versions of this at festivals and love recreating those bright flavors at home now

Recipe FAQs

→ What lettuce variety works best?

Butter lettuce leaves are preferred for their tenderness and flexibility, but romaine or iceberg work as sturdy alternatives.

→ Can the peanut sauce be made ahead?

Yes, prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to three days. Whisk before serving if needed.

→ Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely. Keep the turkey mixture and sauce separate from the lettuce until ready to eat for best texture.

→ How do I add extra heat?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to the turkey or peanut sauce for a spicy touch.

→ Can I substitute the turkey?

Ground chicken or plant-based crumbles work well if you prefer an alternative to ground turkey.