Makes: *12 cups | 2 Servings*
Per Serving: *10g Protein | 75 Cal*

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If you’re looking for a easy, healthy, high-protein and low-carb meal that does NOT skimp on flavor, then these Lettuce Cups with my Spicy Peanut Sauce are just what you need. They are SO approachable, so macro-friendly and so delicious that you’ll be making them on repeat for dinner, lunch or even meal prep.

In fact, they really do shine as a meal prep option - all you have to do is keep the filing, lettuce, and sauce in separate containers then build when you’re ready to eat. And for anyone who is watching their sugar or carb intake, each lettuce cup only has 2g of carbs and 10g of protein, making them a perfect option for low carb lovers! :)

Why You’ll Love These Lettuce Cups

High in Protein: With lean ground turkey and a nutrient-dense veggie mix, these cups pack in a solid protein punch while keeping calories in check.
Low-Carb & Gluten-Free Friendly: Swap soy sauce for tamari and you're good to go for gluten-free eating. Low-carb and keto folks can enjoy this meal, too.
Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, these are perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
Customizable: Easily adjust the spice level, swap in your favorite veggies or protein source, and make it your own.
Fresh, Crunchy, and Saucy: The balance of textures and the rich, spicy peanut sauce will have you coming back for seconds.

Ingredients

For the Filling:

2 heads of little gem or Bibb lettuce
1 lb lean ground turkey, chicken, beef, or tofu - I used 99% lean ground turkey
2 cups finely shredded green cabbage
1/2 cup grated carrot
1/2 cup finely chopped shiitake mushrooms
2 green onions, thinly sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
1 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce or tamari
1 tsp sesame oil
1 tbsp chili garlic sauce
1 tbsp avocado oil

For the Spicy Peanut Sauce:

6 tbsp peanut butter powder of 4 tbsp natural peanut butter
2 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
2 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tbsp maple syrup or honey
1 tsp grated ginger
1 tsp sriracha or chili garlic sauce
2–3 tbsp warm water

Directions

1. Prepare the Filling:

Heat avocado oil and sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add minced garlic and grated ginger, then sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Stir in chopped shiitake mushrooms and cook until browned and moisture is released.
Add shredded cabbage and grated carrots, and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
Push the veggies to one side and add the ground turkey.
Cook the turkey, breaking it up with a spatula, until fully browned.
Stir in soy sauce or tamari and chili garlic sauce; combine well.
Let everything cook together for 2–3 more minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Remove from heat and stir in green onions. Let cool slightly.

2. Make the Spicy Peanut Sauce:

In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce or tamari, rice vinegar, maple syrup or honey, grated ginger, and sriracha.
Gradually whisk in warm water until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.

3. Serve:

Separate and rinse the lettuce leaves, then pat dry.
Fill each leaf with a few spoonfuls of the turkey mixture.
Drizzle with spicy peanut sauce or serve it on the side for dipping.

Nutrition Information (Per lettuce cup - Makes 12 cups and 2-3 servings)

Calories: 75 calories
Protein: 10g
Carbs: 2g
Fat: 2g

Smart Substitutions & Variations

Protein: Use ground chicken, ground pork, tempeh, or extra-firm tofu as alternatives to turkey.
Vegetables: Try napa cabbage, red bell pepper, or water chestnuts for a twist.
Nut-Free Sauce: Swap peanut butter for sunflower seed butter or tahini.
Vegan Version: Replace turkey with crumbled tofu or tempeh and ensure your chili garlic sauce is plant-based.
Low-Sodium: Use coconut aminos in place of soy sauce or tamari.
Crunch Factor: Top with chopped peanuts, sesame seeds, or crispy shallots.

Meal Prep & Storage Tips

Store the cooked filling in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Keep the peanut sauce in a separate jar or container.
Wash and store lettuce leaves in a salad spinner or paper towel–lined container to keep them crisp.
Assemble right before eating to prevent soggy lettuce.

FAQs

Yes! Prepare the filling and sauce in advance. Just reheat the filling before serving and assemble fresh.
Absolutely. They're low in calories and carbs, high in fiber, and protein-rich—ideal for weight loss while keeping you full.
Little gem, Bibb, or butter lettuce are all great choices. Romaine can work in a pinch but tends to be crunchier and less flexible.
Yes—just be sure to use tamari instead of regular soy sauce.
Yes! Let it cool completely, then freeze in a resealable bag or airtight container for up to 2 months.

These Lettuce Cups with Spicy Peanut Sauce are more than just a healthy meal—they’re an explosion of flavor and texture. They're protein-packed, loaded with veggies, and the perfect vessel for that spicy, tangy, nutty sauce. Great for family dinners, parties, or meal prep, they’re versatile and satisfying.

Add them to your weeknight rotation and you’ll never look at lettuce the same way again. For more high-protein, easy recipes that support your health goals, explore the rest of the blog or check out the PSQ app for 600+ recipes, personalized coaching, and real results.