Asian Cabbage Turkey Rolls

Asian Cabbage Turkey Rolls

Mia

These Asian Cabbage Turkey Rolls offer a delicious low-carb alternative to traditional spring rolls or egg rolls, perfectly aligned with Optavia's Lean & Green principles. Tender Napa cabbage leaves serve as a nutrient-rich wrapper for a savory filling of lean ground turkey infused with aromatic ginger, garlic, and a touch of Asian-inspired seasonings. Each bite delivers a satisfying combination of protein and vegetables without the excess calories or carbohydrates found in conventional wrapped dishes.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and nutritional profile. Ground turkey breast provides an exceptionally lean protein source, while fresh ginger and garlic not only add bold flavor but also offer anti-inflammatory benefits. The Napa cabbage leaves are blanched just until pliable, maintaining their crisp texture and mild, slightly sweet flavor that complements the savory turkey filling beautifully. Unlike heavy, fried versions, these rolls are steamed or pan-seared with minimal oil, keeping them light yet deeply satisfying.

This dish is ideal for meal prep, as the rolls can be assembled ahead of time and quickly cooked when needed. The recipe yields four generous servings, each containing approximately 5-6 ounces of lean protein paired with abundant non-starchy vegetables—the perfect Lean & Green meal. Whether you're following the Optavia program or simply seeking a healthier approach to Asian-inspired cuisine, these turkey rolls deliver maximum flavor with minimal calories, proving that healthy eating never has to be boring or bland.

Mia

Mia

Recipe Author: Welcome to Mia's Kitchen, where every recipe is plant-forward, anti-inflammatory, and full of flavor. Her meals make it easy to eat well, support gut health, and enjoy balanced, wholesome cooking at home.

Nutrition

35 minutes
None servings
245 calories
Fat 8.50g
Carbs 6.00g
Protein 38.00g

Ingredients

12 largeNapa cabbage leaves, outer leaves, intact
1.5 lbslean ground turkey breast, 99% lean
2 tbspfresh ginger, minced
4 clovesgarlic cloves, minced
4 stalksgreen onions, finely chopped
2 tbsplow-sodium soy sauce
1 tbsprice vinegar
1 tspsesame oil
1/2 tspblack pepper, freshly ground
1/4 tspred pepper flakes (optional)
as needed Nonecooking spray, non-stick
2 tbspfresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Equipment

Large pot
Cutting board
measuring spoons
paper towels
tongs
large mixing bowl
meat thermometer
sharp knife
large non-stick skillet
bowl for ice water

Clean Eating

Exemplifies clean eating with whole, minimally processed ingredients like fresh ground turkey, Napa cabbage, and natural seasonings. The recipe avoids refined sugars, artificial additives, and focuses on nutrient-dense, whole food components.

Ketogenic Diet

An ideal keto recipe featuring high-protein ground turkey, minimal carbohydrates from cabbage leaves, and healthy fats from sesame oil and cooking spray. The recipe maintains the low-carb, high-fat macronutrient profile essential for ketogenic diets.

Low-Carb Diet

Perfectly aligned with low-carb principles, this recipe uses Napa cabbage leaves as a low-carb wrapper, contains lean ground turkey, and avoids high-carb ingredients like grains or bread. The total carbohydrate content is minimal, making it an excellent low-carb meal option.

Optavia

This recipe perfectly matches Optavia's Lean & Green principles with its lean ground turkey protein, abundant non-starchy vegetables (Napa cabbage), and minimal added fats. The portion control and nutritional balance align precisely with Optavia's dietary guidelines.

Paleo Diet

Compliant with Paleo principles using lean ground turkey, fresh vegetables, and natural seasonings while avoiding grains, legumes, and processed ingredients. The cabbage leaves replace traditional wraps, keeping the recipe aligned with whole, unprocessed food guidelines.

Instructions

1
8 min

Bring a large pot of water to a boil over high heat.

2

While water heats, carefully separate 12 large outer leaves from the Napa cabbage, keeping them intact and setting aside.

3 min
3
3 min

Blanch the cabbage leaves in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until just pliable but still bright green.

4

Remove cabbage leaves with tongs and immediately transfer to a bowl of ice water to stop cooking. Drain and pat dry with paper towels.

2 min
5

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, minced ginger, minced garlic, chopped green onions, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.

2 min
6

Mix the turkey filling thoroughly with clean hands or a spoon until all ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the meat.

2 min
7

Lay one cabbage leaf flat on a clean work surface with the stem end closest to you. If the stem is very thick, trim it slightly with a knife to make rolling easier.

8

Place about 1/4 cup of turkey mixture in the center of the cabbage leaf, forming it into a log shape.

9

Fold the bottom of the leaf over the filling, then fold in both sides, and roll tightly toward the top to create a compact roll. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling to make 12 rolls.

8 min
10

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and spray with cooking spray.

2 min
11

Place the cabbage rolls seam-side down in the skillet, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.

1 min
12
5 min

Cook the rolls for 4-5 minutes on the first side until golden brown and the turkey begins to cook through.

13
5 min

Carefully flip each roll and cook for another 4-5 minutes on the second side until the turkey is fully cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

14

Transfer cooked rolls to a serving platter and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired. Serve immediately while hot.

1 min

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