Shellfish 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 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 toasted pumpkin seeds on top bring a satisfying crunch that makes every bite feel complete. Butter lettuce leaves act as the perfect natural wrapper, keeping things light without sacrificing any of the bold flavor. Every ingredient here is straightforward and ocean-free by nature, so there's no need to scan labels for hidden shellfish-derived sauces or broths — coconut aminos do all the umami heavy lifting. A squeeze of lime and a handful of fresh cilantro at the end brighten the whole dish and make it feel like something you'd order at a restaurant. Whether you're feeding a crowd or just yourself on a weeknight, this one earns a permanent spot in the rotation.
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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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