Grilled Veggie Wraps With Lime Cilantro Cashew Cream

Looking for a vibrant and satisfying vegetarian meal? These Grilled Veggie Wraps with Lime‑Cilantro Cashew Cream are bursting with fresh flavors and textures! Tender-crisp grilled vegetables are enveloped in warm tortillas and slathered with a luscious, plant-based cashew cream that’s both tangy and herbaceous. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a light lunch, or a crowd-pleasing appetizer. Get ready to experience a delightful combination of smoky, zesty, and creamy goodness!

Ingredients

• Flour Tortillas (4 large, ≈ 30 cm / 12‑inch): These form the base of our wraps, providing a soft and pliable exterior. Opt for high-quality tortillas that can withstand grilling without tearing.
• Mixed Sliced Vegetables (1 cup / 150 g): We’re using a colorful medley of zucchini, red bell pepper, red onion, and mushrooms. Feel free to customize with your favorites – eggplant, yellow squash, or even asparagus would be delicious!
• Olive Oil (2 Tbsp / 30 ml + 1 Tbsp for grilling): A good quality extra virgin olive oil is essential for both marinating the vegetables and brushing the tortillas for a golden-brown finish.
• Smoked Paprika (1 tsp / 5 g): This spice adds a wonderful smoky depth to the grilled vegetables, enhancing their overall flavor profile.
• Ground Cumin (½ tsp / 2 g): Cumin provides a warm, earthy note that complements the smoked paprika and other vegetables.
• Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings to bring out the natural flavors of the vegetables.
• Raw Cashews (½ cup / 75 g): The star of our creamy sauce! Soaking the cashews for at least 4 hours (or overnight) softens them, allowing for a super-smooth and velvety texture when blended.
• Water (¼ cup / 60 ml): Used to help blend the cashews into a creamy consistency. Adjust the amount as needed to achieve your desired thickness.
• Fresh Lime Juice (2 Tbsp / 30 ml): Adds a bright, zesty tang to the cashew cream, balancing the richness of the cashews.
• Nutritional Yeast (2 Tbsp / 8 g): This deactivated yeast provides a cheesy, savory flavor to the cashew cream, making it even more satisfying.
• Fresh Cilantro Leaves (¼ cup / 15 g, loosely packed): A key ingredient for that vibrant, fresh flavor! Cilantro adds a bright, herbaceous note to the cashew cream.
• Jalapeño (1 small, seeded and minced – optional): For a touch of heat! Remove the seeds and membranes for a milder flavor.
• Toasted Pepitas (2 Tbsp / 15 g): These toasted pumpkin seeds add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor as a garnish.
• Extra Fresh Cilantro Leaves (as needed): For a final touch of freshness and visual appeal.

Substitutions

Don’t have an ingredient on hand? No problem! Here are a few easy substitutions:

• Cashews: Sunflower seeds can be used as a substitute for cashews, though the flavor will be slightly different.
• Flour Tortillas: Whole wheat or corn tortillas can be used instead of flour tortillas.
• Vegetables: Feel free to swap out any of the vegetables for your favorites!

Let’s Build These Grilled Veggie Wraps: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prepare the Vegetables: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the sliced zucchini, red bell pepper, red onion, and mushrooms. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, then sprinkle with smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Toss thoroughly to ensure all vegetables are evenly coated with the seasoning. This step is crucial for developing a flavorful base for your wraps.
2. Grill the Vegetables: Preheat your grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high heat. Place the seasoned vegetables onto the hot grill, spreading them in a single layer if possible. Grill for approximately 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are tender-crisp and exhibit beautiful char marks. Don’t overcrowd the grill; work in batches if necessary to achieve optimal charring. Remove from the grill and set aside.
3. Make the Lime-Cilantro Cashew Cream: While the vegetables are grilling, prepare the cashew cream. Drain the soaked cashews and place them in a high-speed blender. Add the ¼ cup of water, 2 tablespoons of fresh lime juice, 2 tablespoons of nutritional yeast, ¼ cup of fresh cilantro leaves, and the minced jalapeño (if using). Blend on high speed until the mixture is incredibly smooth and creamy. If the cream is too thick, add a tablespoon of water at a time until you reach your desired consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and additional lime juice as needed.
4. Assemble the Wraps: Lay each flour tortilla flat on a clean work surface. Spread a generous tablespoon of the lime-cilantro cashew cream evenly over the entire surface of each tortilla. This creates a flavorful and protective layer that prevents the tortilla from becoming soggy.
5. Fill and Roll: Place a handful of the grilled vegetables in the center of each tortilla. Carefully fold in the sides of the tortilla, then tightly roll it up like a burrito. A tight roll is essential to prevent the filling from spilling out during grilling.
6. Grill the Wraps: Brush the outside of each rolled wrap with a little olive oil. Return the wraps to the preheated grill. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until the tortilla is golden brown and crispy, and the interior is warmed through. The grilling process adds a delightful texture and enhances the overall flavor.
7. Serve and Garnish: Transfer the grilled veggie wraps to a serving board. Slice each wrap diagonally to reveal the vibrant swirl of cashew cream inside. Drizzle any remaining cashew cream over the top. Sprinkle with toasted pepitas and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves for added color and crunch. Serve immediately.

Why Soaking Cashews is Key to Creamy Perfection

The magic behind this recipe’s luscious cashew cream lies in the soaking process. Raw cashews are hard and don’t blend well on their own. Soaking them in water for at least 4 hours (or overnight) softens them, allowing them to break down into an incredibly smooth and creamy texture when blended. This creates a dairy-free, plant-based cream that rivals traditional sour cream or mayonnaise in richness and flavor. Don’t skip this step – it’s the foundation of the entire sauce!

Vegetable Variations: Customize Your Wraps

Feel free to get creative with the vegetables! While zucchini, bell peppers, red onion, and mushrooms are a classic combination, you can easily substitute or add other grill-friendly vegetables. Consider adding sliced eggplant, asparagus, corn on the cob (cut into segments), or even pineapple for a touch of sweetness. Adjust the grilling time accordingly based on the density of the vegetables you choose.

Spice Level Adjustment: Tailor the Heat

The jalapeño pepper adds a subtle kick to the cashew cream. If you prefer a milder flavor, omit the jalapeño altogether. For those who enjoy more heat, leave the seeds in the jalapeño or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cream. Remember to taste as you go and adjust the spice level to your preference.

Make-Ahead Tips for Easy Entertaining

To save time, you can prepare the cashew cream and grill the vegetables ahead of time. Store the cashew cream in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store the grilled vegetables in a separate container. When ready to serve, simply assemble and grill the wraps. This makes these wraps a perfect option for a quick weeknight meal or a casual gathering with friends.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use a different type of tortilla?

Yes, you can! Whole wheat tortillas or spinach tortillas are great alternatives. Just be aware that the grilling time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of the tortilla.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply use gluten-free tortillas. Double-check the label on your nutritional yeast to ensure it’s also gluten-free.

What can I do with leftover cashew cream?

Leftover cashew cream is incredibly versatile! Use it as a dip for vegetables, a sauce for tacos or bowls, or a spread for sandwiches.

Wrap It Up & Pin It!

These Grilled Veggie Wraps with Lime-Cilantro Cashew Cream are a delicious and healthy meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of smoky grilled vegetables, creamy cashew sauce, and fresh cilantro is simply irresistible. Don’t forget to save this recipe to Pinterest for later!

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