Spicy Chickpea Lettuce Wraps with Cilantro Jalapeno Sauce
A vibrant and nutritious dish featuring crispy lettuce wraps filled with spiced chickpeas and topped with a creamy cilantro jalapeno sauce.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cans 15 oz cans of chickpeas Provides a satisfying, protein-rich base.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil Helps the spices adhere and adds richness.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder Imparts warmth and depth.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin Adds warm, earthy flavors.
- 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder For savory kick.
- to taste salt & pepper Elevate all flavors.
- 6-8 leaves romaine lettuce Crisp leaves serve as the wrap.
- optional diced onion, tomato, avocado, or cucumber Add color and taste.
Cilantro Sauce
- 0.5 cup yogurt Adds creaminess; can substitute with sour cream or mayonnaise.
- 0.25 cup fresh cilantro Herby brightness.
- 1 jalapeño Provides spicy edge.
- 1 clove garlic Enhances flavor.
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice Zesty freshness.
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil Enriches the sauce.
- 0.25 teaspoon sea salt Rounds out flavors.
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper Rounds out flavors.
Instructions
Preparation
- Begin by draining and rinsing your chickpeas to remove excess sodium and any canning liquid. Pat dry using paper towels.
- In a medium bowl, combine the drained chickpeas with olive oil, chili powder, ground cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until every chickpea is coated.
- Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chickpeas and sauté for about 3 to 5 minutes until crunchy and golden.
Assembly
- Take the crisp romaine lettuce leaves and divide the sautéed chickpeas among them.
- Drizzle generously with your cilantro sauce and top with optional toppings if using.
Cilantro Sauce Preparation
- In a blender, combine yogurt, cilantro, jalapeño, garlic, lime juice, avocado oil, sea salt, and black pepper. Pulse for 30 to 60 seconds until smooth.
Notes
For extra crunch, roast the chickpeas at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes after seasoning. This recipe is flexible; use your favorite toppings.