Since my last couple of posts have been desserts, I figured it was about time for a dinner recipe. If only we could all survive on cake! As a family, we really are always working toward healthy eating and these corn, black bean and quinoa lettuce wraps are so delicious you’ll forget they are also good for you.
When I began cooking, I was convinced I didn’t want to learn many “healthy recipes”. Of the few I tried, many were flavorless and had me looking for a second dinner because they also weren’t satisfying. Discovering sites like Skinnytaste changed my views on healthier eating. As I’ve continued to cook I’ve realized that healthy options can also be full of flavor. I still adore butter and comfort food but I enjoy them now with much less guilt. When I plan meals that are balanced and better for me I don’t mind enjoying a dinner or two that’s a bit more indulgent.
The idea for these lettuce wraps was inspired after a recent dinner with friends. We were invited over with several other families and enjoyed a taco night. Our host was busy in the kitchen and I couldn’t tear myself away from the corn and black bean salsa she had made long enough to help! Enjoying a fresh homemade salsa made me forget for a moment that there was a foot of snow outside. I was immediately dreaming of summer and nights spent outside grilling.
While the tacos were also delicious (the recipe is from This Vintage Grove), I woke up craving the corn and black bean salsa. As I was making my grocery list the following day, I knew I wanted to recreate that salsa. I realized that if I added quinoa to the salsa it could be the perfect stuffing for lettuce wraps.
Corn, black bean and quinoa lettuce wraps are a quick and easy option for lunch or dinner. I served ours with chips and guacamole and could have easily added cheese to the wraps too. Frozen corn and canned beans are mixed with onions, peppers and spices to create a fresh and flavorful salsa. You could easily omit the quinoa and just enjoy the salsa. I can guarantee it will be on our menu all summer long!
ingredients
1 cup quinoa
1 1/2 cups water
2 cups frozen corn
1 can black beans
1/4 red onion, diced
1/2 red bel pepper, diced
2 Tbsp hot sauce (I use cholula)
3 Tbsp cilantro, chopped
1 tsp cumin
juice of 1 lime
salt to taste
1 head butter lettuce, washed
instructions
- Rinse quinoa in cold water. Add quinoa and water to a small pot and bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer and then put a lid on the pot. Cook for 10-15 minutes or until all the water is absorbed. Allow to sit for 5 minutes before adding to the salsa.
- While the quinoa is cooking add all the other ingredients, except the lettuce, in a large bowl.
- Add quinoa to the salsa and stir to combine.
- Pull off lettuce leaves and fill each leaf with 2-3 tablespoons of filling. Roll or fold the lettuce for easier eating, Enjoy!