If you’re seeking a delicious, nutrient-packed lunch or dinner option that’s both hearty and refreshing, look no further than the best vegan collard wrap recipe. Collard greens, with their sturdy texture and mild flavor, make the perfect vessel for a variety of vibrant fillings.
These wraps are not only visually appealing but also incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize with your favorite veggies, grains, and sauces. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or simply aiming to add more plant-based meals to your diet, this recipe offers a fresh twist on traditional wraps that will satisfy your taste buds and keep you energized.
Plus, it’s easy to prepare and packs well for on-the-go meals, making it an ideal choice for busy weekdays or casual gatherings.
In this recipe, we’ll guide you step-by-step through the process of blanching the collard leaves for easy rolling, assembling a flavorful filling, and offering tips to make your wraps both tasty and nutritious.
Ready to dive into a wrap that’s as good for your body as it is for your palate? Let’s get started!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There’s something incredibly satisfying about a wrap that’s bursting with fresh ingredients and wrapped in vibrant, leafy greens. Here’s why this vegan collard wrap recipe stands out:
- Wholesome and nutrient-dense: Collard greens are loaded with vitamins A, C, and K, calcium, and fiber, making these wraps a powerhouse of nutrition.
- Customizable fillings: Whether you prefer roasted veggies, grains like quinoa, or plant-based proteins, these wraps are a perfect canvas for your culinary creativity.
- Low-carb and gluten-free: Using collard greens as the wrap makes this recipe friendly for those avoiding gluten or watching their carb intake.
- Perfect for meal prep: These wraps store well, so you can prepare them ahead of time for quick lunches or snacks during the week.
- Deliciously fresh and light: Unlike heavy bread wraps, collard wraps feel light on the stomach while still being filling.
Ingredients
- 6 large collard green leaves, washed and stems trimmed
- 1 cup cooked quinoa (or brown rice)
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup sliced cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1 ripe avocado, sliced
- 1 cup cooked chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- ½ cup red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons tahini
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1 small jalapeño, thinly sliced for a bit of heat
Equipment
- Large pot or deep skillet (for blanching collard leaves)
- Large bowl (for mixing dressing)
- Cutting board and sharp knife
- Slotted spoon or tongs (for removing collards from water)
- Mixing spoon
- Serving plate or platter
- Optional: food processor or blender (for tahini dressing, if preferred)
Instructions
- Prepare the collard greens: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Submerge each collard leaf in boiling water for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, until the leaves are bright green and slightly softened but still firm. Immediately transfer to a bowl of ice water to stop cooking. Drain and pat dry with a kitchen towel.
- Trim the thick stems: Using a sharp knife, carefully slice out the thick stem from the center of each collard leaf to make rolling easier.
- Make the dressing: In a bowl, whisk together the tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, maple syrup, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Prepare the filling: In a medium bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, shredded carrots, cucumber slices, chickpeas, red bell pepper, cilantro, and jalapeño if using. Drizzle half of the tahini dressing over the mixture and toss gently to coat.
- Assemble the wraps: Lay a collard leaf flat on a clean surface. Spread a spoonful of the quinoa and veggie filling onto the bottom third of the leaf. Add a few slices of avocado on top.
- Roll the wrap: Fold the bottom of the leaf over the filling, then fold the sides inward, rolling tightly until the wrap is fully enclosed. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.
- Serve and enjoy: Drizzle the remaining tahini dressing over the wraps or serve it on the side for dipping. These wraps are best enjoyed fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 2 days.
Tips & Variations
“Blanching the collard greens is key to making the leaves pliable for easy rolling without tearing.”
- Mix up your grains: Swap quinoa for millet, farro, or even couscous for a different texture.
- Try different fillings: Roasted sweet potatoes, grilled tofu, or tempeh cubes add wonderful flavors and protein.
- Add crunch: Toasted nuts or seeds, like pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds, provide a delightful crunch.
- Spice it up: Incorporate sriracha or harissa into the tahini dressing for a spicy kick.
- Make it Mediterranean: Add kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and cucumber with a drizzle of balsamic reduction.
- Use a food processor: For an ultra-smooth dressing, blend the tahini dressing ingredients in a processor with a splash of water.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per Wrap |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 kcal |
| Protein | 8 g |
| Fat | 10 g |
| Carbohydrates | 26 g |
| Fiber | 7 g |
| Vitamin A | 90% DV |
| Vitamin C | 70% DV |
| Calcium | 15% DV |
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy these vegan collard wraps as a light lunch or a flavorful appetizer at your next gathering. Pair them with a crisp side salad or a bowl of soup for a complete meal.
They also make excellent picnic fare or office lunches since they travel well and keep their freshness.
For a refreshing drink, try a cold glass of iced herbal tea or a sparkling lemon water. If you love experimenting with plant-based recipes, you might also enjoy the Kosher Sushi Salad Recipe, which offers a unique blend of flavors perfect for spring and summer.
Conclusion
This best vegan collard wrap recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a nutrient-rich, delicious meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. The combination of fresh veggies, hearty grains, and creamy tahini dressing wrapped in tender collard greens creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or looking for a quick, healthy bite, these wraps are adaptable to your tastes and dietary needs. Don’t hesitate to try variations with your favorite ingredients or spices to make this recipe uniquely yours.
For more inspiring plant-based dishes, check out the Jamaican Minced Beef Recipes or the delightful Leche De Pantera Recipe.
Happy wrapping and enjoy the fresh, vibrant flavors of this wholesome vegan meal!
📖 Recipe Card: Best Vegan Collard Wrap Recipe
Description: A fresh and nutritious vegan wrap using tender collard greens filled with a flavorful chickpea and avocado mixture. Perfect for a light lunch or snack, packed with protein and healthy fats.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT10M
Total Time: PT25M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 large collard green leaves, stems removed
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1 small red bell pepper, diced
- 1 small cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon tahini
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- Optional: hot sauce for serving
Instructions
- Blanch collard leaves in boiling water for 1 minute, then cool in ice water; pat dry.
- In a bowl, mash chickpeas and avocado together until creamy but slightly chunky.
- Add diced bell pepper, cucumber, red onion, lemon juice, tahini, cumin, salt, and pepper; mix well.
- Stir in chopped cilantro.
- Place 2-3 tablespoons of filling onto each collard leaf.
- Roll the leaf tightly, folding in the sides like a burrito.
- Serve immediately or wrap in parchment for later.
Nutrition: Calories: 220 kcal | Protein: 9 g | Fat: 12 g | Carbs: 22 g
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