Save This cherry balsamic glazed turkey wrap transforms ordinary lunch into something extraordinary with its perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. The homemade cherry glaze elevates simple turkey wraps into a memorable meal that feels special enough for guests yet easy enough for weekday lunches.
I first created these wraps when looking for creative ways to use leftover Thanksgiving turkey, but they've become a year-round favorite. My family now requests them whenever we need a quick but impressive lunch for weekend gatherings.
Ingredients
- Cherry Balsamic Glaze: Fresh or frozen pitted cherries bring natural sweetness and beautiful color to the glaze
- Balsamic vinegar: adds depth and tanginess that balances the fruit perfectly
- Honey: enhances the natural sweetness without overwhelming
- Dijon mustard: provides a subtle sharpness that cuts through richness
- Salt: brings all flavors into focus look for flaky sea salt for best results
- Wrap Assembly
- Large flour tortillas: choose ones labeled "burrito size" for easy rolling
- Cooked turkey breast: slice it thin for the best texture in every bite
- Mixed salad greens: add freshness and nutrients baby greens offer the most delicate flavor
- Crumbled goat cheese: provides creamy tanginess that complements the cherry glaze beautifully
- Red onion: delivers a gentle bite slice it paper thin for best results
- Cucumber: adds refreshing crunch and helps balance the rich flavors
Instructions
- Prepare the Cherry Balsamic Glaze:
- Combine ingredients and simmer Add cherries, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon, and salt to a small saucepan and bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. The mixture will begin to bubble and the cherries will start releasing their juices.
- Cook until thickened:
- Continue simmering for 6 to 8 minutes, maintaining a gentle bubble rather than a rolling boil. Watch for the mixture to reduce slightly and coat the back of a spoon. The cherries will soften considerably during this process.
- Cool and mash:
- Remove from heat and let cool for about 5 minutes. Using a fork, gently mash the cherries to release more flavor while maintaining some texture. The glaze should be thick enough to drizzle but not watery.
- Assemble the Wraps:
- Prepare tortillas Warm each tortilla briefly in a dry skillet over medium heat for 10 seconds per side or microwave for 10-15 seconds until soft and pliable. This prevents cracking when rolling.
- Layer ingredients strategically:
- Place each tortilla on a flat surface and layer ingredients in the center, leaving a 2-inch border around the edges. Start with greens as a base, then add turkey, cucumber, red onion slices, and finally sprinkle with goat cheese.
- Add the glaze:
- Drizzle 2-3 tablespoons of the cherry balsamic glaze evenly over the fillings. The warm glaze will slightly soften the goat cheese, creating a wonderful creamy texture.
- Season and roll:
- Add a light sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper, then fold in the sides of the tortilla and roll from the bottom up, tucking in the sides as you go to create a secure wrap. For the tightest wrap, pull back slightly on the fillings as you make the first roll.
Save The cherry balsamic glaze is truly the star of this recipe. I discovered the magical combination of cherries and balsamic while experimenting with summer preserves, and it's become my secret weapon for elevating simple sandwiches and wraps. The slight tartness of the cherries balances perfectly with the aged complexity of good balsamic vinegar.
Storage Tips
These wraps can be fully assembled and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Wrap each one tightly in parchment paper, then in aluminum foil to maintain freshness.
For longer storage, keep components separate. The cherry glaze will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. When ready to serve, gently reheat the glaze in the microwave for 15-20 seconds to bring it back to drizzling consistency.
If taking these wraps for lunch, pack the glaze separately in a small container and drizzle just before eating to prevent the tortillas from becoming soggy.
Ingredient Substitutions
If cherries aren't in season, try raspberries or blackberries for a similar sweet-tart profile in the glaze. Each will bring its own unique flavor that pairs beautifully with turkey.
For a dairy-free version, replace goat cheese with avocado slices or hummus for creaminess. The avocado adds healthy fats while hummus brings protein and a complementary nuttiness.
Whole wheat or spinach tortillas work wonderfully as alternatives to traditional flour tortillas, adding extra nutrition and visual appeal to your wraps.
Serving Suggestions
These wraps make a complete meal on their own, but pair beautifully with a light side like a cucumber salad or fresh fruit.
For a more substantial meal, serve with sweet potato chips or a small cup of tomato soup for dipping. The sweetness of the soup complements the tangy glaze perfectly.
When entertaining, slice the wraps into pinwheels and secure with toothpicks for an elegant appetizer that showcases the beautiful colors inside.
Save Success Stories
These wraps have become my go-to solution for using leftover holiday turkey. The sweet-tart glaze transforms even the driest turkey into something spectacular that family members actually look forward to eating. One friend who claimed to "hate leftovers" asked for this recipe after trying these wraps at a post-Thanksgiving gathering!
The combination of flavors in these wraps hits all the right notes—sweet cherries, tangy balsamic, creamy cheese, and savory turkey create a symphony of taste that elevates lunch from ordinary to extraordinary. Whether you're meal prepping for the week ahead or looking for a quick yet impressive option for guests, these cherry balsamic glazed turkey wraps deliver satisfaction in every bite.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of turkey?
Yes, rotisserie chicken can be substituted for turkey without affecting the flavor balance. Simply slice or shred before assembling.
- → Is there a gluten-free alternative?
Use gluten-free tortillas to make this dish suitable for gluten-free diets. Check labels for cross-contamination information.
- → How thick should the cherry glaze be?
The glaze should have a pourable yet slightly thickened consistency after simmering. Mash cherries gently for a chunky texture.
- → What can I serve with these wraps?
Pair with a crisp green salad, fruit-forward iced tea, or a light rosé for a well-rounded meal.
- → How do I keep the wraps from getting soggy?
Allow the cherry balsamic glaze to cool slightly before drizzling, and serve the wraps soon after assembly to retain freshness.