Italian Wraps

When it comes to quick, satisfying meals, Italian wraps are my go-to. They’re versatile, packed with flavor, and can easily be made with leftover ingredients, making them perfect for any day of the week. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing lunch, a light dinner, or a snack on the go, these Italian wraps will hit the spot. Plus, they come together in no time with just a handful of ingredients!

The Upside of Italian Wraps

Italian wraps are not only delicious but also offer a myriad of benefits. They’re customizable, easy to prepare, and perfect for meal prep. You can throw in whatever you have on hand, making them a fantastic way to reduce food waste. Moreover, these wraps are fresh and vibrant, thanks to the crisp vegetables and aromatic herbs. With the right ingredients, they can be a delightful burst of flavor in every bite.

What We’re Using

• 4 Flour Tortillas: I love using TortillaLand unbaked tortillas for their fresh taste and texture.
• 1/2 Cup Mayonnaise: Divided; I prefer Best Foods/Hellmann’s for its creamy consistency.
• 1/2 Cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese: Divided; this adds a rich, savory flavor.
• 4 Large Pieces Lettuce Leaf: Crisp and refreshing, perfect for the wrap.
• 2 Roma Tomatoes: Juicy and sweet, they bring a lovely freshness.
• 1 Large Ripe Avocado: Creamy and buttery, a must-have ingredient.
• 1 Cup Cooked Chicken: Use leftover shredded rotisserie chicken or grilled chicken for convenience.
• 1/3 Cup Italian Dressing: A zesty addition that ties all the flavors together.
• Salt and Pepper: To enhance the flavors.
• 1/2 Cup Croutons: For that perfect crunch.
• 10 Leaves Fresh Basil: Optional, but highly recommended for added flavor.

Gear Up: What to Grab

• Cutting Board: Essential for chopping your veggies and chicken.
• Sharp Knife: A must for easily slicing through tomatoes and avocado.
• Mixing Bowl: For combining your ingredients and dressing.
• Spatula or Spoon: To spread the mayonnaise and mix ingredients.
• Wrap Station: A clean surface to assemble your wraps.

Build Italian Wraps Step by Step

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by washing your lettuce leaves, tomatoes, and basil. Slice the tomatoes and avocado into thin slices. If you’re using whole chicken breasts, shred or chop your cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Mix the Dressing

In a mixing bowl, take half of the mayonnaise and mix it with the Italian dressing. This will create a delicious spread for your wraps.

Step 3: Assemble the Wraps

Lay your flour tortilla flat on your wrap station. Spread a layer of the mayo-dressing mixture evenly over the tortilla, leaving about an inch of space around the edges.

Step 4: Layer the Ingredients

On top of the mayo, start layering your ingredients. Place a piece of lettuce, followed by sliced tomatoes, avocado, and cooked chicken. Sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the top, and add a pinch of salt and pepper.

Step 5: Add Crunch

Toss in a handful of croutons for that delightful crunch, and if you’re using basil, scatter the leaves on top.

Step 6: Roll It Up

Carefully fold in the sides of the tortilla, then roll it up tightly from the bottom to the top. Ensure that all the fillings are securely wrapped inside.

Step 7: Slice and Serve

Using a sharp knife, slice the wrap in half diagonally. Serve immediately, or wrap it in foil or parchment paper for a perfect on-the-go meal!

Flavor-Forward Alternatives

• Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of Sriracha for a spicy twist.
• Different Proteins: Swap chicken for turkey, ham, or even a plant-based alternative like chickpeas or tofu.
• Veggie Lovers: For a vegetarian option, load up on more veggies like bell peppers, cucumbers, or shredded carrots.
• Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like oregano, parsley, or even arugula for a peppery flavor.

Notes from the Test Kitchen

Italian wraps are incredibly forgiving; feel free to adjust the ingredients based on what you have. You can use whatever mayonnaise you prefer, and if you want to make it lighter, consider Greek yogurt as a substitute. Additionally, if you can’t find fresh basil, dried herbs can work too, just use them sparingly.

Leftovers & Meal Prep

These Italian wraps are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare all your ingredients in advance and store them in separate containers. When you’re ready to eat, simply assemble your wrap. They’re best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the fridge for a day if needed. Just be cautious with ingredients that may wilt, like lettuce, and add them just before wrapping.

Handy Q&A

Can I use a different type of tortilla?

Absolutely! Feel free to use whole wheat, spinach, or gluten-free tortillas based on your preference.

How long can I store the wraps in the fridge?

It’s best to eat them within a day for optimal freshness, but they can last up to two days if kept tightly wrapped.

Can I freeze these wraps?

While it’s not recommended to freeze the assembled wraps due to the texture of fresh ingredients, you can freeze the cooked chicken or other proteins and assemble the wraps later.

What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?

If you don’t have Parmesan, you can use Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.

The Takeaway

Italian wraps are not only a delightful meal but also a canvas for your culinary creativity. They are quick to assemble, utilizing fresh ingredients while being customizable for any palate. With the perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, and savory flavors, these wraps are sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. So next time you find yourself wondering what to whip up for lunch or dinner, remember these Italian wraps—they might just become your new favorite dish!