Pin This cherry balsamic glazed turkey wrap recipe transforms ordinary lunch into something extraordinary. The combination of sweet cherries and tangy balsamic creates a glaze that elevates simple turkey wraps to restaurant-quality meals in just 25 minutes.
I first created these wraps when looking for creative ways to use leftover Thanksgiving turkey, but they've become a year-round favorite in our house. My daughter now requests them weekly for her school lunches.
Ingredients
- Fresh or frozen cherries: provide natural sweetness and antioxidants look for plump dark cherries for best flavor
- Balsamic vinegar: adds depth and tanginess aged varieties offer richer flavor
- Honey: balances acidity with natural sweetness local raw honey works beautifully
- Dijon mustard: provides subtle sharpness and helps emulsify the glaze
- Turkey breast: delivers lean protein rotisserie or freshly roasted both work well
- Goat cheese: adds creamy tanginess choose a soft variety for best melting quality
- Red onion: provides sharp contrast and beautiful color slice paper thin for best texture
- Baby spinach or mixed greens: add freshness and nutrients always wash thoroughly
- Flour tortillas: create the perfect wrapper look for pliable fresh ones without tears
- Pecans: optional add wonderful crunch and nutty flavor toast lightly to enhance flavor
Instructions
- Prepare the Cherry Balsamic Glaze:
- Combine cherries balsamic vinegar honey Dijon mustard salt and pepper in a small saucepan over medium heat. Watch carefully as the mixture begins to bubble ensuring it doesn't boil over. The cherries will gradually break down releasing their juice and creating a vibrant red sauce. Simmer for exactly 6 to 8 minutes stirring frequently with a wooden spoon to prevent sticking. You'll know it's ready when the sauce coats the back of a spoon and the cherries have softened completely. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly the glaze will continue to thicken as it cools.
- Assemble the Wraps:
- Lay tortillas flat on a clean work surface ensuring they're at room temperature for maximum flexibility. Arrange turkey slices down the center of each tortilla slightly overlapping to create an even layer. Distribute baby spinach or mixed greens evenly over the turkey creating a bed of freshness. Sprinkle crumbled goat cheese across the greens allowing it to fall into the crevices. Add thinly sliced red onion sparingly for punchy flavor without overwhelming. If using pecans scatter them across the filling for added texture and nutty dimension.
- Roll and Serve:
- Drizzle the slightly cooled cherry balsamic glaze generously over each prepared wrap ensuring even distribution of both sauce and cherry pieces. Fold the bottom edge of each tortilla up over the filling then fold in both sides. Continue rolling from the bottom creating a tight cylinder that contains all ingredients. For neater presentation slice each wrap diagonally through the middle with a sharp knife revealing the colorful layers inside. Serve immediately while the tortillas are still pliable and the contrast between warm glaze and cool fillings is at its peak.
Pin The cherry balsamic glaze is truly the star of this recipe. I discovered this combination years ago when experimenting with preserving summer cherries. The first time I paired it with turkey, my husband declared it was better than any sandwich he'd ever bought at a café. Now we make a double batch of the glaze to keep on hand for quick meals throughout the week.
Make-Ahead Options
These wraps are perfect for meal prep. You can prepare the cherry balsamic glaze up to 5 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The glaze actually improves after a day as the flavors meld together more deeply.
For packed lunches, assemble the wraps in the morning but keep the glaze separate in a small container. This prevents the tortillas from becoming soggy. Simply drizzle the glaze over the wraps just before eating.
If you want completely assembled wraps that stay fresh, try wrapping them tightly in parchment paper before refrigerating. This allows them to hold together while preventing moisture loss.
Ingredient Substitutions
Don't have all the exact ingredients? These wraps are incredibly versatile. For the protein, rotisserie chicken, sliced ham, or even grilled portobello mushrooms work beautifully in place of turkey.
If goat cheese isn't your preference, cream cheese provides similar creaminess, while feta offers comparable tanginess. Dairy-free? Avocado slices provide wonderful richness without any animal products.
The cherry glaze can be adapted using other berries like blackberries or raspberries when cherries aren't in season. In a pinch, a good quality store-bought fruit preserve mixed with a splash of balsamic vinegar makes a quick alternative.
Seasonal Variations
Summer Version use fresh cherries and add sliced peaches for extra sweetness
Fall Harvest incorporate thinly sliced apples and swap pecans for walnuts
Winter Comfort use dried cherries rehydrated in warm water and add roasted sweet potatoes
Spring Freshness add asparagus tips and substitute fresh herbs for some of the greens
Serving Suggestions
These wraps pair beautifully with light sides for a complete meal. A simple cucumber salad with lemon vinaigrette complements the sweet-tangy glaze perfectly. For heartier appetites, sweet potato chips or a small cup of butternut squash soup makes an excellent accompaniment.
For entertaining, slice the wraps into pinwheels and secure with toothpicks for an elegant appetizer. Arrange on a platter with extra glaze for dipping and garnish with fresh herb sprigs.
Pin Enjoy your delicious and easy cherry balsamic glazed turkey wraps!
Recipe Q&A
- → How do you make the cherry balsamic glaze?
Simmer cherries with balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon, salt, and pepper until softened and slightly thickened. Cool before using.
- → Can I prepare the cherry glaze ahead of time?
Yes, the glaze can be made in advance and refrigerated for up to three days. Use as needed for wraps or salads.
- → What cheese substitutes work well?
Feta cheese or any creamy plant-based alternative can be used if you prefer to avoid goat cheese.
- → Are there dairy-free or nut-free options?
Omit goat cheese for dairy-free wraps, and skip pecans for a nut-free version. Always check labels for hidden allergens.
- → What ingredients add extra flavor or texture?
Try adding arugula, thinly sliced avocado, or roasted turkey for more bite and richness.
- → How do I keep the wraps fresh for later?
Wrap tightly in foil or parchment, store in the fridge, and add the glaze just before serving to avoid sogginess.