Nitrate & Nitrite Free Cilantro-Lime Lettuce Cup Bites
These little lettuce cups are bright, fresh, and packed with bold flavor from real lime juice, ginger, garlic, and a touch of turmeric — no cured meats, no processed sauces, nothing that sneaks in unwanted preservatives. Ground turkey cooked with coconut aminos gives you that savory, slightly sweet depth you'd expect from a restaurant-style appetizer, all without the additives that make so many similar dishes off-limits. The crisp butter lettuce acts as a natural vessel, keeping things light while still feeling satisfying and fun to eat. Shredded carrots add a subtle sweetness and a little texture, and the finishing hit of fresh cilantro, scallions, and lime wedges makes every bite taste alive. This is the kind of dish that disappears fast at a gathering because it looks impressive and tastes even better than it looks. Everything comes together in one skillet, which means less cleanup and more time enjoying the food.
About FigFig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.
Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
For the lettuce cups
- 1 head butter lettuce, leaves separated and trimmed into cups
For the filling
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 tbsp coconut oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 2 medium carrots, finely shredded
- 3 tbsp coconut aminos
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice (from about 2 limes)
- 1 tsp lime zest
- ½ tsp ground turmeric
- ¼ tsp salt, plus more to taste
For serving
- ½ cup fresh cilantro, roughly chopped
- 3 scallions, thinly sliced
- 1 lime, cut into wedges (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Separate the butter lettuce into individual leaves and trim the base of each to form a cup shape. Arrange 12 of the best-formed cups on a large serving platter and set aside.
- 2
Heat the coconut oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the garlic and ginger and cook, stirring constantly, until fragrant, about 1 minute — watch closely so the garlic does not brown.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!