Chicken Lettuce Wraps paired with a bright, effervescent Vinho Verde is an excellent pairing on a warm day. Vinho Verde comes from the Minho provence along the coast of northern Portugal. Vinho Verde is not a grape varietal, but rather a region. The term Vinho Verde means “green wine.” There are more than two dozen permitted white grapes including Alvarinho in Vinho Verde. These wines are simple and refreshing with bright citrus notes, a hint of salinity due to the proximity of the Atlantic ocean and vibrant acidity. You will also find a light effervescence to this wine because many winemakers add a touch of carbon dioxide before bottling. It’s a great summer sipper. It’s also excellent with mexican food and seafood. Drink young. The best part, these wines are incredible affordable starting at about $9 for a decent bottle. Check out the Gazela. I like the way the lime notes bring out the cilantro in the lettuce wraps. Of course, there are some wonderfully complex Vinho Verdes that come with a higher price tag. Looking for a little splurge, check out the Monte Cascas (SRP: under $20). This wine boasts aromas of freshly squeezed key lime juice, honeydew melon & agave nectar tantalizing your senses. This a light, dry & crisp summer wine with piercing acidity. It’s the perfect accompaniment to an array of fresh Mexican dishes especially Guacamole with lime infused tortilla chips. If you are going to add some spice to your lettuce wraps, reach for bottle of off-dry Riesling. The touch of residual sugar is the perfect pairing for spicy fare.
Recipe: Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Ingredients
8 lettuce leaves (Bibb)
1 avocado
1/2 tsp. cumin
1/2 tsp. garlic powder
1/2 tsp. sea salt
1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
1 lime (juice)
1/4 cup chopped cilantro
2 cups shredded chicken (I used a rotisserie chicken)
1/2 cup salsa
2 scallions (thinly sliced)
Directions
In a small bowl, mash avocado with salt, pepper, cumin & garlic powder. Set aside. In a separate bowl toss shredded chicken, lime juice and cilantro. Separate and wash lettuce leaves and pat dry with paper towel. Divide avocado spread among the 8 lettuce leaves. Top with shredded chicken mixture. Add salsa & scallions. Serve immediately.