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After every holiday feast my fridge always ends up stuffed with leftovers and these wraps are my favorite way to give those extras a flavorful second life. Crisp salad greens combined with savory turkey or chicken and a zingy swipe of cranberry sauce make each bite bright and satisfying. It is my go-to fifteen minute meal that feels special but comes together with almost no effort.
These wraps first came together because I was desperate to clear out leftovers one busy post-holiday Monday. Now they are my secret weapon for after-Thanksgiving lunches when everyone is craving something different.
Ingredients
- Cooked turkey, chicken, or shrimp: Choose high quality leftover protein for that perfect bite. Chop or shred it for easy wrapping.
- Mixed salad greens: Spinach, arugula, or romaine bring freshness and a tender bite. Pick organic greens for best flavor.
- Shredded carrots: Their crunch brightens every wrap. Look for whole carrots and shred yourself for more sweetness.
- Thinly sliced cucumber: A cool juicy addition. English cucumbers offer fewer seeds and clean crisp texture.
- Thinly sliced red onion: Lends sharpness and color. Choose a firm, bright onion and slice thin to avoid overpowering.
- Flour tortillas or whole wheat wraps: Large size makes wrapping simple. Check for soft, flexible tortillas to prevent tearing.
- Cranberry sauce: The tangy sweet spread that ties it all together. Choose whole berry for texture or jellied for a smooth layer.
- Mayonnaise or Greek yogurt: Optional for creaminess. Use full fat Greek yogurt for tang or classic mayo for richness.
- Crumbled feta or goat cheese: Optional for extra punch. Buy from the cheese counter if possible for quality.
- Toasted pecans or walnuts: Optional, adds crunch and nutty flavor. Toast them at home for deep flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Lay Out Tortillas:
- Set each tortilla on a clean work surface. Make sure they are at room temperature to keep them pliable while rolling.
- Mix Spreads:
- If you like creamy wraps, blend the cranberry sauce and mayonnaise or Greek yogurt together in a small bowl until smooth.
- Spread Cranberry Mixture:
- Use a spoon or spatula to spread about two tablespoons of cranberry mixture over each tortilla. Leave a border around the edges to make rolling easier.
- Layer Vegetables:
- Arrange the salad greens, shredded carrots, cucumber, and red onion evenly over the cranberry layer on all tortillas. This gives every bite crunch and color.
- Add Protein:
- Spoon about one half cup of chopped turkey, chicken, or shrimp on top of each vegetable layer. Spread the protein across the center for balanced wraps.
- Top with Cheese and Nuts:
- If using, sprinkle each with a handful of crumbled feta or goat cheese and a scattering of toasted nuts. The cheese and nuts add richness and crunch.
- Roll Wraps:
- Fold in the sides of each tortilla to encase the fillings, then roll up tightly from the bottom to form a neat wrap. Be gentle but firm so nothing spills out.
- Slice and Serve:
- Using a sharp knife, cut each wrap in half diagonally. Serve immediately while crisp or wrap tightly in foil for a portable lunch later.
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These wraps are where cranberry sauce truly shines in my kitchen. Two of my nieces actually fight over the last few spoonfuls every year and now I intentionally make extra so the wraps always make an appearance.
Storage Tips
Wrap tightly in foil or wax paper and store in the fridge for up to two days. Leave out the greens if you plan to store them longer so they do not wilt. For best texture add the veggies just before eating.
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap rotisserie chicken for roasted turkey if that is what you have. A vegan version works beautifully with hummus or white bean spread instead of protein and dairy. If you need gluten free use your favorite gluten free tortillas.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with sweet potato chips, a side of crisp apple slices, or leftover roasted root vegetables. Dressing up the plate with fresh citrus or pomegranate seeds makes it feel fresh and bright after the heaviness of holiday dinners.
Cultural and Holiday Context
Handheld dishes like these wraps are an American lunchtime favorite especially after holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas. The combination of turkey and cranberry sauce is a true classic that never gets old and making wraps like these became a tradition in our family for lazy post-holiday afternoons.
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Common Questions
- → Can I use other proteins besides turkey, chicken, or shrimp?
Yes, you can use leftover ham, roast beef, or even plant-based proteins. Adjust seasoning as needed to complement the cranberry sauce.
- → What is the best tortilla type to use?
Large flour tortillas or whole wheat wraps work best for rolling, but you can also use gluten-free tortillas if needed.
- → Can these wraps be made ahead of time?
Yes, assemble and wrap tightly in foil to keep fresh for several hours. Refrigerate and consume within a day for best texture.
- → How can I add extra flavor to the wraps?
Stir a little spicy chutney into the cranberry sauce, or add fresh herbs like basil or cilantro for more flavor. Roasted vegetables also add depth.
- → Are there dairy-free or nut-free options?
Skip the cheese and use dairy-free spreads for a dairy-free option. Omit nuts if you want the wraps nut-free.
- → What sides pair well with these wraps?
Try a crisp green salad, sweet potato chips, or fresh fruit as refreshing accompaniments.