Gourmet Blt Wraps With Secret Sauce are about to transform your lunch routine from mundane to magnificent. Have you ever craved the timeless combination of crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, and ripe tomatoes, but wished for something a little more exciting, a touch more refined? Today, I am absolutely thrilled to share a recipe that promises to do just that, taking a beloved classic and elevating it to an entirely new level of deliciousness. While the traditional BLT sandwich has graced American tables for decades with its simple yet satisfying charm, this wrap version offers a contemporary twist that’s both elegant and incredibly convenient.
I believe you’ll adore this dish not just for its incredibly satisfying taste and texture – the perfect crunch of bacon against the soft wrap, the vibrant freshness of the vegetables – but also for its sheer portability and gourmet appeal. It’s the ideal solution for a sophisticated picnic, a quick yet impressive work-from-home lunch, or an elegant addition to any casual gathering. The true star, however, is undoubtedly the unforgettable “secret sauce” which provides a tantalizing, tangy, and slightly creamy counterpoint, truly defining what makes these Gourmet Blt Wraps With Secret Sauce an absolute revelation. Prepare for a flavor experience that you’ll want to revisit again and again!
Ingredients:
- 8 slices (about 1/2 pound) thick-cut bacon: When crafting the perfect Gourmet BLT Wraps With Secret Sauce, the bacon isn’t just an afterthought; it’s a cornerstone of flavor and texture. I always opt for thick-cut bacon because it renders beautifully, providing that essential crispiness without becoming brittle, and it offers a more substantial, satisfying bite. Look for good quality, uncured varieties for the best flavor profile.
- 8 large (10-inch) flour tortillas: The vessel for our delicious filling! I find that 10-inch flour tortillas offer the ideal balance of flexibility and size, allowing for generous filling without tearing, and rolling up into a neatly packed wrap. You could also use whole wheat tortillas if you prefer, which add a lovely nutty undertone. The key is to choose soft, pliable tortillas that won’t crack when you roll them.
- 1 large head Romaine lettuce: Crispness is non-negotiable in a stellar BLT. Romaine lettuce delivers that satisfying crunch, and its sturdy leaves hold up well against the other ingredients and the creamy secret sauce. Make sure to wash it thoroughly and dry it very well to prevent any sogginess in your wraps. Butter lettuce or green leaf lettuce could also work if you prefer a softer texture, but I’m a firm believer in Romaine for that classic BLT experience.
- 2-3 ripe, juicy tomatoes: The “T” in BLT demands perfection. I always select vine-ripened or heirloom tomatoes when they are in season for their superior sweetness and less watery flesh. Look for tomatoes that feel heavy for their size and have a vibrant color. Slicing them just right is crucial – not too thick that they make the wrap unwieldy, and not too thin that they get lost.
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For the Secret Sauce (the “S” that elevates these Gourmet BLT Wraps):
- 1/2 cup good quality mayonnaise: This is the creamy base of our magical sauce. Using a high-quality, full-fat mayonnaise will make a noticeable difference in the richness and emulsification of the sauce. Avoid anything light or fat-free here; we want robust flavor!
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard: Dijon adds a sophisticated tang and a slight peppery note that beautifully cuts through the richness of the mayonnaise and bacon. It’s an indispensable component for that gourmet edge.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: A pantry staple that provides a mellow, aromatic garlic flavor without the intensity of fresh garlic, ensuring it blends seamlessly into the sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Similar to garlic powder, onion powder offers a gentle, sweet onion flavor that rounds out the savory profile of our secret sauce without any harshness.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: This is where a touch of smoky depth comes into play, mirroring and enhancing the flavors of the bacon. Smoked paprika adds a beautiful color and a subtle warmth that is truly irresistible.
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: A secret weapon in many of my recipes! Worcestershire sauce brings an incredible umami punch, adding complexity and a savory depth that will make people wonder what your “secret” ingredient is.
- 1/2 teaspoon pure maple syrup or honey: Just a touch of sweetness is vital to balance the savory, tangy, and smoky notes in the sauce. It doesn’t make the sauce sweet, but rather harmonizes all the flavors, making them sing.
- Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, but highly recommended for a subtle kick): If you like a tiny bit of warmth, a pinch of cayenne will wake up the palate without overpowering the other flavors. It adds just a whisper of heat.
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh chives or parsley (optional, for garnish and fresh flavor): While optional, fresh herbs add a lovely pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous note that brightens the entire wrap. Chives offer a delicate oniony flavor, while parsley is clean and green.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning the sauce to perfection. Always taste and adjust as you go!
Preparing the Secret Sauce: The Heart of Your Gourmet BLT Wraps
Let’s dive into creating the magical elixir that truly elevates these from simple BLTs to truly Gourmet BLT Wraps With Secret Sauce. This sauce is where the magic happens, so take your time and savor the process!
- Gather Your Tools and Ingredients: First things first, ensure you have a medium-sized mixing bowl and a whisk at the ready. Lay out all the ingredients for your secret sauce so they are easily accessible. I always find that having everything prepped makes the cooking process so much smoother and more enjoyable.
- Combine the Base: Into your mixing bowl, measure out the 1/2 cup of good quality mayonnaise. I can’t stress enough how much difference a quality mayo makes here; it’s the foundation, after all.
- Introduce the Tang and Depth: Next, add the 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard. Watch as its pale yellow hue starts to mingle with the creamy white of the mayonnaise. Then, sprinkle in the 1 teaspoon of garlic powder and 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder. These dehydrated aromatics will infuse the sauce with a gentle, consistent flavor.
- Add the Smoky Umami: Now for the wonderful 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika. You’ll immediately notice its rich color and subtle aroma as it’s added to the bowl. Follow that with 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce. This is my secret weapon for adding an incredible depth of umami that will make everyone wonder what your special ingredient is in these Gourmet BLT Wraps With Secret Sauce.
- Balance with Sweetness: Drizzle in the 1/2 teaspoon of pure maple syrup or honey. This touch of sweetness isn’t meant to make the sauce overtly sweet, but rather to beautifully balance out the tang, savory, and smoky notes, bringing all the flavors into perfect harmony. It’s a crucial step I never skip!
- Consider the Heat (Optional but Recommended): If you appreciate a little warmth, now is the time to add a pinch of cayenne pepper. It’s just enough to provide a gentle tickle on the palate, adding another layer of complexity without making the sauce spicy. Trust me, it’s a wonderful addition.
- Whisk Until Velvety Smooth: With all the ingredients in the bowl, grab your whisk and get to work! Whisk vigorously until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined and the sauce is beautifully smooth and creamy, with no lumps. You want a consistent texture that will spread easily onto your tortillas.
- Taste and Adjust: This is arguably the most important step for any sauce. Dip a small spoon into your creation and taste it. Does it need more salt? A bit more pepper? Perhaps a tiny bit more Dijon for extra zing? Adjust the seasonings to your personal preference. Remember, the sauce should be vibrant and well-seasoned, as it will be complementing the fresh ingredients of the wrap.
- Incorporate Fresh Herbs (Optional): If you’re using them, gently fold in the 1 tablespoon of finely chopped fresh chives or parsley. These fresh herbs add a lovely visual appeal and a burst of fresh flavor that brightens the entire sauce.
- Chill to Meld Flavors: Once your secret sauce is perfected, cover the bowl and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes, or even better, an hour. This allows all those incredible flavors to meld and deepen, resulting in an even more delicious and cohesive sauce. I find that a chilled sauce also just tastes better in a cool, refreshing wrap.
Crisping the Bacon to Perfection
Achieving perfectly crisp bacon is fundamental to the enjoyment of your Gourmet BLT Wraps With Secret Sauce. Nobody wants chewy or undercooked bacon in their wrap! I have two preferred methods, but I strongly lean towards one for consistency.
Method 1: The Oven (My Preferred Method for Even Crispiness and Less Mess)
- Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the bacon cooks evenly and crisps up beautifully without scorching.
- Prepare Your Baking Sheet: Line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup – you’ll thank me later! Then, place an oven-safe wire rack on top of the foil. This setup allows air to circulate around the bacon, ensuring it gets crispy on all sides without swimming in its own fat.
- Arrange the Bacon: Lay the 8 slices of thick-cut bacon in a single layer on the wire rack, making sure not to overlap them. Overlapping will prevent even cooking and crisping.
- Bake to Golden Perfection: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, depending on the thickness of your bacon and your desired level of crispiness. I usually check it around the 15-minute mark. You’re looking for a beautiful golden-brown color and a firm, crisp texture. There’s no need to flip the bacon when using a wire rack, which is another reason I love this method!
- Drain and Cool: Once the bacon has reached your desired crispiness, carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. Using tongs, transfer the cooked bacon to a plate lined with several layers of paper towels. This allows any excess grease to drain off, which is crucial for maintaining that fantastic crispness and avoiding greasy wraps. Let it cool for a few minutes; it will crisp up even further as it cools.
Method 2: The Stovetop (Good for Smaller Batches, but Requires More Attention)
- Choose Your Pan: Select a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or cast-iron pan. A good quality pan will distribute heat evenly.
- Start Cold: Lay the bacon slices in a single layer in the cold pan. This is a key trick for stovetop bacon: starting with a cold pan allows the fat to render slowly, resulting in more even cooking and crispier bacon.
- Cook Over Medium Heat: Place the pan over medium heat. As the pan slowly heats up, the bacon fat will begin to melt and render, preventing the bacon from burning before it’s cooked through.
- Flip and Cook: Cook for about 8-12 minutes, flipping the bacon every 2-3 minutes to ensure even cooking and browning. Keep a close eye on it, as bacon can go from perfectly crisp to burnt very quickly.
- Drain Thoroughly: Once the bacon is golden brown and delightfully crisp, use tongs to transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess grease. This step is non-negotiable for crispy bacon.
Whichever method you choose, remember that perfectly cooked, crispy bacon is absolutely essential for the ultimate Gourmet BLT Wraps With Secret Sauce. It provides that salty, savory crunch that complements the creamy sauce and fresh vegetables so wonderfully.
Prepping Your Fresh Produce and Tortillas
Now that our incredible secret sauce is chilling and our bacon is perfectly crisp, it’s time to prepare the fresh elements that will make these Gourmet BLT Wraps With Secret Sauce truly shine. Fresh, well-prepped produce is just as important as the cooked components!
Preparing the Lettuce: Crisp and Dry is Key
- Wash Thoroughly: Take your large head of Romaine lettuce. Carefully separate the leaves and rinse them under cool running water. I like to fill a large bowl with water and swish the leaves around to dislodge any dirt or grit, then rinse again under the faucet.
- Dry Every Leaf: This step is critical! Wet lettuce will make your wraps soggy, and nobody wants that. I highly recommend using a salad spinner to get the leaves as dry as possible. If you don’t have one, lay the washed leaves out on a clean kitchen towel and gently pat them dry with another towel. You want them absolutely bone-dry.
- Shred or Tear: Once dry, you can either roughly chop the lettuce into bite-sized pieces or tear the larger leaves into smaller, manageable portions. I prefer a rough chop as it makes for easier eating and a better distribution of crunch in each bite of the Gourmet BLT Wraps With Secret Sauce. Place the prepped lettuce in a bowl and set aside.
Preparing the Tomatoes: Slicing for Success
- Select the Best: Ensure your tomatoes are ripe but firm. Soft, overripe tomatoes can be too watery and make your wraps soggy.
- Slice Evenly: Using a sharp, serrated knife, slice the tomatoes into even rounds, about 1/4-inch thick. Avoid making them too thick, as they will make the wrap bulky and harder to roll.
- Remove Excess Moisture (Optional but Recommended): For an extra layer of prevention against sogginess, you can gently blot the tomato slices with a paper towel. This helps absorb any surface moisture without sacrificing the juicy interior. Some people also remove the very seedy, watery core, but I generally find blotting sufficient if the tomatoes are ripe and firm.
- Arrange and Set Aside: Lay the sliced tomatoes on a plate and set them aside.
Warming the Tortillas: The Foundation for a Perfect Wrap
Warming your tortillas is a small step that makes a huge difference in the final product. It makes them more pliable and less likely to crack when you roll them, ensuring your Gourmet BLT Wraps With Secret Sauce hold together beautifully.
- Choose Your Method: You have a few options for warming tortillas:
- Microwave: Stack a few tortillas (3-4 at a time), wrap them in a damp paper towel, and microwave for 15-20 seconds. They should be warm and flexible.
- Dry Skillet: Heat a dry (no oil!) non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Place one tortilla in the hot pan for about 15-20 seconds per side, until it puffs up slightly and becomes soft and pliable. Repeat with the remaining tortillas.
- Oven: Wrap a stack of tortillas in aluminum foil and warm them in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes.
- Keep Warm: Once warmed, I like to keep the tortillas wrapped in a clean kitchen towel or placed back in their foil wrapper to retain their warmth and flexibility while I assemble the wraps.
With your lettuce crisp and dry, your tomatoes perfectly sliced, and your tortillas warm and pliable, you are now fully ready for the grand finale: assembling your magnificent Gourmet BLT Wraps With Secret Sauce!
Assembling Your Gourmet BLT Wraps With Secret Sauce
The moment has arrived! All your careful preparation for the Secret Sauce, the perfectly crisp bacon, and the fresh, vibrant produce culminates in this step. Assembling these Gourmet BLT Wraps With Secret Sauce is all about layering for maximum flavor and texture in every single bite.
- Lay Out Your Canvas: Take one of your warmed, pliable flour tortillas and lay it flat on a clean cutting board or work surface. I always find a good, flat surface makes the spreading and layering much easier.
- Generously Apply the Secret Sauce: Retrieve your chilled Secret Sauce from the refrigerator. With a spoon or an offset spatula, spread a generous and even layer of the sauce over the entire surface of the tortilla, leaving about a 1/2-inch border around the edges. This sauce is a star of our Gourmet BLT Wraps With Secret Sauce, so don’t be shy! Ensure every part of the wrap gets a taste of that incredible flavor.
- Layer the Lettuce: Next, place a good handful of your crisp, dry Romaine lettuce leaves or chopped lettuce over the sauce. I like to arrange it slightly off-center towards one edge, creating a base for the other ingredients. The lettuce provides that essential crunch and freshness, acting as a barrier between the juicy tomatoes and the tortilla.
- Add the Juicy Tomatoes: Carefully arrange 2-3 slices of your ripe tomatoes over the lettuce. Overlapping them slightly works well. Remember, we’re building layers of flavor and texture, so distribute them evenly across the area where the lettuce is laid.
- Crumble the Crispy Bacon: This is where the magic really comes in! Take your perfectly crisp bacon slices and either break them into smaller, bite-sized pieces or crumble them directly over the tomatoes. I prefer breaking them into irregular pieces as it allows for a more even distribution and ensures you get that satisfying bacon crunch in every single bite of your Gourmet BLT Wraps With Secret Sauce.
- Optional Additions for Extra Gourmet Touch: If you’re feeling adventurous, this is the time to add any optional ingredients. Thinly sliced avocado adds a creamy richness that pairs wonderfully. A few slivers of red onion can provide a sharp, pungent kick if you enjoy it. Remember, these are “gourmet” wraps, so feel free to personalize!
- The Folding Technique – The Key to a Tightly Packed Wrap: This step is crucial for ensuring your wrap holds together and is easy to eat without falling apart.
- Fold in the Sides First: Gently fold in the left and right sides of the tortilla over the filling, just enough to cover the edges of your ingredients. This creates a secure pocket for your filling.
- Roll Tightly from the Bottom: Now, starting from the bottom edge (the one closest to you), begin to roll the tortilla upwards, tucking the filling in tightly as you go. Use your fingers to keep everything snug and compact. The tighter you roll, the better the wrap will hold its shape. Continue rolling until you reach the top edge. You should have a firm, cylindrical wrap.
- Repeat for Remaining Wraps: Continue this assembly line process with the remaining tortillas and ingredients until all your delicious Gourmet BLT Wraps With Secret Sauce are beautifully made.
- Serve Immediately or Prepare for Later: These wraps are best enjoyed fresh, when the lettuce is crisp and the tortilla is still pliable. If you need to prepare them ahead of time, I recommend wrapping each tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerating for up to a few hours. Just know that the lettuce might soften slightly over time.
- The Final Flourish (Optional): For a professional presentation, you can slice each wrap in half diagonally. This reveals all the vibrant layers inside and makes them even easier to handle and eat. Serve them on their own or with a side of extra Secret Sauce for dipping!
And there you have it – a perfectly crafted, incredibly flavorful Gourmet BLT Wrap With Secret Sauce, ready to delight your taste buds. Enjoy every single bite of this elevated classic!
Conclusion:
So there you have it, my friends! We’ve journeyed through the creation of what I truly believe is not just another meal, but an experience. These wraps are a game-changer, elevating the humble BLT to an art form. The combination of crisp, fresh lettuce, perfectly cooked bacon, and juicy, ripe tomatoes is already a classic for a reason, but it’s the magical secret sauce that truly transforms them. I’m telling you, once you taste that creamy, tangy, slightly sweet, and utterly addictive sauce binding all those textures together, you’ll understand why I’m so passionate about them. It’s a burst of freshness and flavor in every single bite, making it an ideal choice for a quick lunch, a delightful picnic, or a casual yet impressive dinner. Forget everything you thought you knew about BLTs; these wraps are a revelation. They are incredibly satisfying without being heavy, packing a punch of flavor that lingers deliciously. I’ve seen faces light up after the first bite, and I assure you, yours will too. This isn’t just a recipe; it’s an invitation to rediscover a beloved classic with a sophisticated twist. The convenience factor is also a huge plus – quick to assemble, easy to transport, and utterly mess-free, making them perfect for busy weekdays or impromptu gatherings. They prove that gourmet doesn’t have to mean complicated or time-consuming. It’s all about quality ingredients and a little culinary flair, which this recipe delivers in spades.
Now, let’s talk about how to make these wonders even more versatile. While they are absolutely perfect on their own, a simple side of artisanal potato chips or a light green salad with a vinaigrette dressing complements them beautifully. For a heartier meal, a warm bowl of tomato soup or a creamy bisque would be an excellent pairing, turning a simple wrap into a comforting feast. I sometimes serve them with a colorful fruit salad, especially during warmer months, to add a refreshing, sweet contrast. But don’t stop there! The beauty of these wraps lies in their adaptability. Feel free to experiment with the proteins. Grilled chicken strips or thinly sliced smoked turkey breast make fantastic additions or even replacements for the bacon, offering a different flavor profile while maintaining the wrap’s integrity. For my vegetarian and vegan friends, fear not! Crispy tempeh bacon or smoked tofu strips can stand in for the pork bacon, and the secret sauce can easily be made vegan by swapping out the mayonnaise for a high-quality plant-based alternative. Adding slices of creamy avocado is always a good idea, enhancing the texture and richness.
Consider adding a sprinkle of sharp cheddar or crumbled feta cheese for an extra layer of flavor. You could also introduce some thinly sliced red onion or a few jalapeño slices for a kick. If you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping out the standard flour tortillas for spinach wraps, whole wheat tortillas, or even large lettuce leaves for a low-carb option. The possibilities are truly endless, allowing you to tailor this recipe to your specific tastes and dietary preferences, making it a staple in your kitchen.
I sincerely hope I’ve convinced you to give this recipe a try.
There’s an immense joy in creating something delicious with your own hands, and I promise you, the reward of these incredible wraps is well worth the minimal effort. So, go ahead, gather your ingredients, whip up that amazing secret sauce, and prepare to be delighted. Trust me, once you experience the harmony of flavors and textures, you’ll understand why I can’t stop raving about them. I’m confident that after one bite, you’ll be adding the recipe for these Gourmet Blt Wraps With Secret Sauce to your permanent rotation.
When you do make them, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience! Did you add any unique twists? What did your family and friends think? Share your culinary adventures with us! Your feedback and creative variations inspire me and fellow food lovers alike. Let’s celebrate the joy of good food together. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear how much you love them!
Irresistible Gourmet Beef BLT Wraps with Secret Sauce
Transform your lunch routine with these Gourmet Beef BLT Wraps featuring a tantalizing, tangy, and slightly creamy secret sauce. Born from the idea that a tortilla holds everything together better than bread, these wraps elevate the classic BLT with the perfect crunch of beef bacon against fresh lettuce, ripe tomatoes, and an unforgettable sauce. They’re perfect for a sophisticated picnic, a quick work-from-home lunch, or an elegant addition to any casual gathering. While standard beef bacon works well, consider center-cut for less grease or applewood/hickory-smoked for extra flavor. Pair with crispy potato chips, fresh cucumber spears, pasta salad, coleslaw, or a warm cup of tomato soup for a complete meal.
Ingredients
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8 slices (about 1/2 lb) thick-cut beef bacon
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8 large (10-inch) flour tortillas
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1 large head Romaine lettuce
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2-3 ripe tomatoes
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1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil (optional, for stovetop bacon or brushing tortillas)
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For the Secret Sauce:
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1/2 cup mayonnaise
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2 tbsp Dijon mustard
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1/2 tsp onion powder
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1/2 tsp smoked paprika
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1 tsp non-alcoholic Worcestershire sauce
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1/2 tsp pure maple syrup or honey
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Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
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1 tbsp fresh chives or parsley, chopped (optional)
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Salt, to taste
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Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
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Step 1
In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, non-alcoholic Worcestershire sauce, maple syrup (or honey), and optional cayenne pepper. Whisk until smooth. Taste and adjust salt and pepper. Fold in optional fresh chives or parsley. Cover and chill for at least 30 minutes to meld flavors. -
Step 2
For oven method (preferred): Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top. Arrange beef bacon in a single layer. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp. Drain on paper towels. For stovetop method: Lay beef bacon in a cold, heavy skillet. Cook over medium heat for 8-12 minutes, flipping every 2-3 minutes, until crisp. Drain on paper towels. -
Step 3
Wash Romaine lettuce leaves thoroughly and dry completely, ideally with a salad spinner. Chop or tear into bite-sized pieces. Slice ripe tomatoes into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Gently blot tomato slices with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. -
Step 4
Warm tortillas until pliable using your preferred method (microwave, dry skillet, or oven). Keep warm in a clean kitchen towel or foil. -
Step 5
Lay a warmed tortilla flat. Spread a generous, even layer of chilled secret sauce, leaving a 1/2-inch border. Layer with a handful of chopped lettuce, 2-3 tomato slices, and crumbled crispy beef bacon. Fold in the left and right sides of the tortilla slightly, then roll tightly from the bottom upwards into a firm cylinder. Repeat for remaining wraps. Serve immediately, or wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a few hours. For presentation, slice each wrap diagonally.
Important Information
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
Allergy Information
Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
