Asian Turkey Lettuce Wraps

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These Asian Turkey Lettuce Wraps are a burst of flavor in every bite—savory, tangy, fresh, and just the right amount of crunch. They bring together the best of a stir-fry and a salad in one irresistible handheld dish. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun party appetizer, these wraps offer something vibrant and satisfying.

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The seasoned ground turkey, drizzled in a sweet and salty soy-based sauce, pairs beautifully with crisp vegetables and cool, tender lettuce leaves. Plus, they’re low-carb and customizable for different spice levels or dietary preferences. Every wrap delivers freshness and zing, making them hard to resist.


What Kind of Lettuce Should I Use?

For the best texture and ease of wrapping, look for butter lettuce or Boston Bibb lettuce. They offer flexible, cup-shaped leaves that cradle the filling well without tearing. Romaine hearts are a good crunchier alternative, though slightly more rigid.


Ingredients for the Asian Turkey Lettuce Wraps

Ground Turkey: A lean, protein-rich base that soaks up all the savory sauce flavors.

Garlic & Ginger: Essential aromatics that build the base of Asian-inspired flavor.

Soy Sauce & Hoisin Sauce: For depth and umami—these two create the sweet-savory core of the sauce.

Rice Vinegar: Adds a bright tang that lifts the richness of the turkey.

Sesame Oil: Just a dash enhances everything with a toasty nuttiness.

Green Onions & Cilantro: These fresh herbs finish the wraps with freshness and color.

Carrots & Red Bell Pepper: Julienned for crunch and color contrast.

Butter Lettuce: Each leaf acts as a natural wrap, keeping things light and fresh.

Sesame Seeds: Optional but great for garnish and added texture.


How To Make the Asian Turkey Lettuce Wraps

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat a drizzle of sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and ginger and stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 2: Cook the Turkey

Add ground turkey to the skillet and break it apart with a spatula. Cook until it’s no longer pink and starts to brown slightly, about 6-8 minutes.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Stir in soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and rice vinegar. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the turkey to absorb the flavors.

Step 4: Add Crunch

Toss in julienned carrots and red bell peppers. Cook for another 2 minutes just until slightly softened but still crisp.

Step 5: Assemble the Wraps

Spoon the warm turkey mixture into individual butter lettuce leaves. Top with chopped green onions, cilantro, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.

Step 6: Serve Fresh

Arrange wraps on a platter and serve immediately while still warm. Offer extra sauce or sriracha on the side if desired.


Serving and Storing Asian Turkey Lettuce Wraps

These wraps are best served warm straight from the skillet. Arrange them open-faced on a platter for a striking presentation, or let guests build their own. Leftovers keep well for up to 3 days if stored separately: the turkey mixture in an airtight container and the lettuce leaves wrapped in paper towels inside a zip-top bag. Reheat the turkey gently in a skillet or microwave before assembling again.


Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make these spicier?

Add a spoonful of chili garlic sauce or a few dashes of sriracha to the sauce mixture to introduce a spicy kick.

Can I use ground chicken or beef instead?

Absolutely. Ground chicken works almost identically, while ground beef adds a richer flavor. Just drain excess fat if needed.

Are these wraps gluten-free?

They can be! Just use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce, and be sure to check that your hoisin sauce is gluten-free.

What side dishes go well with lettuce wraps?

A light cucumber salad, steamed edamame, or jasmine rice on the side complements them nicely.

Can I prep the ingredients in advance?

Yes. You can pre-chop the veggies and mix the sauce ingredients ahead of time. Cook the turkey fresh for the best flavor and texture.


Want More Dinner Ideas?

You might also like the Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni, a comforting bowl full of creamy, garlicky richness. Or try Sloppy Joe Casserole for a baked twist on a classic sandwich.

If you lean toward spicy, the One Skillet Spicy Garlic Butter Parmesan Steak Pasta brings bold heat with every bite. For something cozy and creamy, Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta won’t disappoint.

Want a hearty bake? The Pepperoni Pizza Casserole might just hit the spot.


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If you make these, I’d love to know how they turned out. Did you spice yours up? Try a different protein? Leave a comment below. I always enjoy hearing how you make these recipes your own.


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Asian Turkey Lettuce Wraps


  • Author: Julia Koch
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

These Asian Turkey Lettuce Wraps are a flavorful, low-carb dinner option that brings together seasoned turkey, crisp vegetables, and fresh herbs in tender lettuce cups. Easy to make and customizable, they’re perfect for busy weeknights or casual entertaining.


Ingredients

1 lb ground turkey

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated

3 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)

2 tbsp hoisin sauce

1 tbsp rice vinegar

1 tsp sesame oil

1/2 cup shredded carrots

1/2 red bell pepper, julienned

3 green onions, chopped

1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Butter lettuce leaves (about 12-15 leaves)

Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)


Instructions

  1. Heat sesame oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and ginger; sauté for 30 seconds.
  2. Add ground turkey, breaking it up as it cooks. Sauté until browned and cooked through, 6–8 minutes.
  3. Stir in soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and rice vinegar. Simmer for 2–3 minutes.
  4. Add carrots and bell pepper; cook for 2 more minutes.
  5. Spoon the mixture into butter lettuce leaves.
  6. Top with green onions, cilantro, and sesame seeds.
  7. Serve immediately with optional chili sauce or sriracha.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Dinner

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