If you are looking for a dinner that feels light but satisfies a serious appetite, these healthy beef lettuce wraps are the answer. Ready in just 15 minutes, this recipe combines the savory, meaty satisfaction of grilled flank steak with the refreshing crunch of Bibb lettuce.
For more vibrant flavors of the East, explore all of our deliciously healthy Asian recipes! And if you are craving red meat, we have a juicy variety of nutritious beef dishes that will satisfy the taste buds of even the most ravenous of carnivores
These wraps are designed to maximize volume and flavor without overloading on calories or refined carbs. By swapping flour tortillas for fresh lettuce leaves and using a yogurt-based sauce, you get a meal that is high in protein and fiber but low in saturated fat and sodium.
Flank steak and skirt steak are the top choices because they are thin, cook quickly, and have a deep beefy flavor that pairs well with fresh vegetables. Sirloin is another good lean option.
Yes, flank steak is considered a lean cut of beef. It is high in protein and lower in saturated fat compared to cuts like ribeye or T-bone. When trimmed of visible fat and eaten in moderation, it fits well into a heart-healthy diet.
You can prep the components (sauce, veggies, steak) ahead of time, but do not assemble the wraps until you are ready to eat. If the sauce sits on the lettuce for too long, the leaves will become soggy.
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Recipe yields 6 servings
Wash lettuce leaves, wrap in paper towels and chill to dry completely.
In a small bowl, whisk the yogurt with the tahini, half of the garlic and 1 tablespoon of the lemon juice. Whisk in 1 tablespoon of the olive oil.
In another bowl, toss the carrots with the scallion, cilantro, cumin, paprika, salt, and the remaining garlic, 2 teaspoons of lemon juice and 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
Arrange the lettuce leaves on a very large platter and spoon a small dollop of the yogurt mixture in the centers, reserving some yogurt for garnish. Top with the beef, carrot slaw, another small dollop of yogurt and additional cilantro, if desired. Serve immediately.
Since these wraps are light, they pair well with sides that add bulk without heaviness.
If you don't have tahini, you can use natural peanut butter or sunflower seed butter (Sunbutter) for a similar nutty profile.
Bibb or Butter lettuce leaves are best for cups, but Romaine hearts or Iceberg lettuce offer a sturdier crunch if you prefer a "boat" style wrap.
For a dairy-free option, use a plain, unsweetened almond or coconut milk yogurt, though this may slightly alter the tanginess.
Skirt steak or sirloin tip steak are excellent lean beef alternatives. You can also use grilled chicken breast or tofu for a non-beef option.