Save This hearty Cherry Balsamic Glazed Turkey Wrap has become my favorite weekday lunch solution that combines sweet and savory flavors in the most delightful way. The homemade cherry balsamic glaze elevates ordinary turkey wraps into something truly special that will impress both family and guests.
I first created these wraps when looking for ways to use leftover Thanksgiving turkey, but they've become such a hit that I now regularly buy turkey breast just to make them. My teenage daughter has started requesting them in her school lunches instead of ordinary sandwiches.
Ingredients
- For the Cherry Balsamic Glaze: Fresh or frozen pitted cherries provide natural sweetness and beautiful color. Look for deep red cherries with good flavor.
- Balsamic vinegar: Adds rich tanginess that balances the sweetness. Choose a quality aged variety for best results.
- Honey: Contributes natural sweetness and helps thicken the glaze. Local raw honey works wonderfully here.
- Dijon mustard: Brings a subtle sharpness that cuts through the sweetness. The authentic French variety has the best flavor.
- Salt and pepper: Enhance all the flavors and provide necessary seasoning.
- For the Wraps: Flour tortillas create the perfect vessel for rolling everything together. Choose large ones that are pliable and fresh.
- Cooked turkey breast: Delivers lean protein. Opt for freshly roasted or quality deli meat without additives.
- Baby spinach or mixed greens: Add freshness and nutrients. Look for crisp leaves without wilting.
- Crumbled goat cheese: Provides creamy tanginess that complements the glaze perfectly. Choose a soft variety that crumbles easily.
- Red onion: Adds a pleasant bite and beautiful color contrast. Slice them paper thin to avoid overpowering.
- Toasted pecans: Bring delightful crunch and nutty flavor. Toast them yourself for maximum freshness.
Instructions
- Create the Cherry Balsamic Glaze:
- Combine cherries, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and help the cherries break down. The mixture will begin to bubble gently after about 2 minutes. Continue simmering for 6 to 8 minutes total, watching carefully as the sauce thickens. You want it to coat the back of a spoon but still remain pourable. Remove from heat when slightly thickened and allow to cool for 5 minutes, during which time it will continue to thicken slightly.
- Prepare Your Work Station:
- Lay out your flour tortillas on a clean, flat surface with enough room to add ingredients and roll them up. If your tortillas seem stiff, warm them briefly in the microwave for 10 seconds or in a dry skillet for better flexibility. This prevents tearing when rolling.
- Layer Your Ingredients:
- Start by arranging turkey slices in an even layer down the center of each tortilla, leaving about 2 inches of space on all sides for folding. Next, add a generous handful of spinach or mixed greens on top of the turkey. Sprinkle each wrap with crumbled goat cheese, distributing it evenly so every bite has some creaminess. Add the thinly sliced red onion sparingly as it can be quite potent. Finally, scatter the toasted pecan pieces across the filling if using.
- Apply the Glaze:
- Drizzle about 2 tablespoons of the cherry balsamic glaze over each wrap's filling, focusing on getting some on both the turkey and the greens. The warm glaze will slightly soften the goat cheese, creating a wonderful melding of flavors. Reserve any extra glaze for dipping or future use.
- Roll with Precision:
- Fold the bottom edge of each tortilla up and over the filling, then fold in both sides. Continue rolling from the bottom up, keeping the sides tucked in, until you have a tight cylinder. The key is to roll firmly enough to keep everything contained but gently enough not to tear the tortilla or squeeze out the filling.
- Slice and Secure:
- Using a sharp knife, cut each wrap diagonally through the middle to create two triangular halves. This not only makes them easier to eat but also showcases the beautiful layers of ingredients inside. If the wraps seem loose, secure each half with a decorative toothpick.
Save The cherry balsamic glaze is truly the star of this recipe. I discovered it by accident when trying to salvage some overripe cherries one summer, and now I make extra batches just to have on hand. My husband loves it so much he puts it on everything from grilled chicken to vanilla ice cream.
Make-Ahead Tips
The cherry balsamic glaze can be prepared up to 5 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Simply warm it slightly before using to restore its pourable consistency. This makes weekday meal prep much simpler when you have the most time consuming component ready to go.
For meal prepping, you can assemble the wraps without the greens and glaze, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Add the greens and glaze just before serving to prevent sogginess. The separate components keep their texture and flavor better when stored individually.
Ingredient Substitutions
Rotisserie chicken makes an excellent substitute for turkey in this recipe. The slightly richer flavor pairs wonderfully with the cherry glaze. For a vegetarian version, try using thick slices of grilled portobello mushrooms or smoked tofu for a similar protein texture.
While goat cheese provides the perfect creamy tanginess, you can easily swap it for crumbled feta for a more Mediterranean flavor profile. Cream cheese mixed with herbs works well for those who find goat cheese too strong, and dairy free cream cheese can accommodate those with lactose intolerance.
When cherries are out of season, try making the glaze with blackberries or blueberries for a similar sweet tart profile. Dried cherries rehydrated in hot water can also work in a pinch, though the flavor will be more concentrated and sweeter.
Serving Suggestions
These wraps make an impressive addition to a lunch buffet when sliced into pinwheels and arranged on a platter. For a complete meal, serve alongside a light soup like butternut squash or tomato bisque.
For an elegant picnic, wrap each portion in parchment paper tied with twine and pair with sparkling water infused with fresh berries and mint. The wraps travel exceptionally well, making them perfect for outdoor adventures.
To create a wrap bar for casual entertaining, set out all components separately and let guests build their own combinations. Include additional toppings like sliced avocado, cucumber ribbons, or microgreens for added customization.
Save These wraps are a delightful combination of sweet and savory, perfect for a quick lunch or an impressive appetizer. Enjoy every bite!
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I use frozen cherries for the glaze?
Yes, both fresh and frozen pitted cherries work well for the balsamic glaze. Thaw frozen cherries beforehand for best results.
- → How can I make this dish dairy-free?
Swap the goat cheese for your favorite plant-based cheese or simply omit it to keep the wraps dairy-free.
- → What turkey should I use?
Use thinly sliced cooked turkey breast, either from leftovers or deli turkey. Roasted turkey also adds great flavor.
- → Can I prepare the cherry balsamic glaze ahead?
Yes. Make the glaze in advance and store in the refrigerator for up to three days to speed up assembly.
- → Are there suggested ingredient swaps?
Try feta instead of goat cheese, arugula in place of spinach, or add avocado slices for variety.
- → Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Assemble wraps just before serving to prevent sogginess. Prepare the glaze and fillings in advance for a quicker meal.