LunchEasyFlare-FriendlyGluten-FreeDairy-Free

Turkey Club Lettuce Wrap

All the flavor of a club sandwich without the bread. Tender turkey, crisp bacon, and fresh tomato layered in soft butter lettuce leaves—just 1g of fiber and ready in 15 minutes.

Turkey Club Lettuce Wrap
Total Time
15m
Servings
2
Calories
285
Fiber
1g
Protein
26g
Carbs
4g
Fat
18g
Best ForSafe for Crohn's & UC
Active FlareRecoveringRemissionStricturePost-Op (Late)J-Pouch

Watch Out For

tomatomoderate

Acidic nightshade that may irritate inflamed gut tissue

Tip: Omit entirely during flares—recipe works well without it

baconmild

Processed meat with saturated fat may trigger symptoms in some

Tip: Use turkey bacon or reduce to 2 slices for lower fat

deli turkeymild

Processed meats contain preservatives that some find triggering

Tip: Use freshly roasted turkey breast sliced at home

Ingredients

  • Low FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP

Instructions

  1. Cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until crisp and browned. Transfer to paper towels to drain.

    Equipment: skillet, paper towels
  2. Combine mayonnaise and Dijon mustard in a small bowl, stirring until smooth.

    Equipment: small bowl
  3. Lay out 4 large butter lettuce leaves on a clean work surface, cupped side up.

  4. Spread about 1 1/2 teaspoons of the mayo mixture onto each lettuce leaf.

  5. Layer 2 oz of turkey slices onto each leaf, folding the turkey to fit the natural cup of the lettuce.

  6. Top each with 2-3 thin tomato slices (if using) and 1 slice of bacon, breaking the bacon to fit if needed.

  7. Season lightly with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

  8. Top each with a second lettuce leaf, pressing gently to form a "sandwich."

  9. Secure each wrap with a toothpick through the center if needed for easier handling.

    Tip: Toothpicks make these easier to eat on the go
  10. Serve immediately while the bacon is still crisp and the lettuce is cold.

Notes

Storage

Best eaten fresh. If making ahead, store components separately in airtight containers—mayo mixture keeps 3 days, cooked bacon 4 days, and turkey 3-4 days. Assemble just before serving to prevent soggy lettuce.

Turkey selection

Choose plain, minimally processed deli turkey without added garlic, onion, or excessive seasonings. Low-sodium varieties may be gentler on the gut. For maximum safety during flares, use fresh roasted turkey breast sliced at home.

Bacon cooking tip

For evenly crisp bacon without stovetop mess, bake on a foil-lined sheet at 400°F (200°C) for 15-18 minutes. This also allows fat to drip away, reducing overall fat content.

Bacon alternative

Turkey bacon contains less saturated fat than pork bacon and may be better tolerated by some of us with IBD. For a lower-fat option that keeps the smoky flavor, use only 2 slices for both wraps.

Lettuce options

Butter lettuce is the most tender option with its soft, pliable leaves. Iceberg works well too and has slightly less fiber. Avoid romaine or other firmer lettuces during flares.

IBD Considerations

Diet Protocol Compliance

How this recipe fits common IBD dietary approaches