Pecan Free Pumpkin Seed Crunch Grass-Fed Beef Lettuce Cups
These lettuce cups are the kind of meal that looks impressive on a platter but comes together in a single skillet with minimal fuss. The filling is deeply savory and aromatic — grass-fed ground beef gets cooked down with fresh ginger, turmeric, coconut aminos, and a splash of apple cider vinegar until everything is glossy and fragrant. Diced zucchini adds a little body and freshness, while the butter lettuce leaves keep things light and crisp as a vessel. The real finishing touch is the toasted pumpkin seed crunch on top — golden, salty pepitas that pop with texture in every bite and make the whole dish feel complete. For anyone navigating tree nut allergies or sensitivities, this recipe is a genuinely satisfying option because every component is straightforward and easy to verify. There are no hidden nut-based sauces or ambiguous pantry shortcuts — just clean, whole ingredients that you control from start to finish. A squeeze of lime and a handful of cilantro at the end bring the whole thing together beautifully.
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Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
For the pumpkin seed crunch
- ½ cup raw pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
- ¼ tsp sea salt
For the beef
- 2 tbsp garlic-infused olive oil
- 1 lb grass-fed ground beef
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, finely grated
- 3 tbsp coconut aminos
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp ground turmeric
- ½ tsp sea salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 medium zucchini, finely diced
- 2 green onions (green tops only), thinly sliced
For serving
- 1 head butter lettuce, leaves separated
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro leaves (optional)
- 1 lime, cut into wedges (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Heat a small dry skillet over medium heat. Add the pumpkin seeds and toast, stirring frequently, until they begin to pop and turn golden, about 4–5 minutes. Watch closely, as they can brown quickly. Remove from heat, toss with 1/4 tsp sea salt, and set aside.
- 2
Heat the garlic-infused olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the diced zucchini and cook, stirring occasionally, until just softened, about 3 minutes.
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