Midday at Old Nan’s Manor, the lively heart of this sprawling household, where adventurers, travelers, and the curious gather to share stories and savor delicacies from distant lands. You’d think I’d be used to it by now, the hustle and bustle of the lunchtime crowd. But let me tell you, dear readers, it’s quite the stir in the Kitchen.
As the sun climbs high in the sky, my mornings of solitude and tranquility quickly give way to the chaotic symphony of voices, clinking cutlery, and the all too frequent complaints and suggestions from our esteemed guests. Elven epicures who swear by the lightness of their meals, dwarf visitors who appreciate the heartiness of their dishes, and a motley crew of adventurers who demand nothing short of an epic feast.
I’d like to say I welcome the challenge with open arms, but well, that would be a lie. I find myself muttering some polite (and some not so polite) words as I dash about the Kitchen, carefully balancing the flavors and customs of countless distant lands.
Elenia’s Green Leaf Wrap is one of those lunchtime delights that somehow manages to please all, without overwhelming my sanity. It’s a light yet satisfying creation that pays homage to the elven affinity for greens, expertly balanced by an assortment of herbs and a hint of citrus zest. Trust me; even a halfling like me can appreciate the harmony in this recipe.
So, let’s not dawdle any longer. Grab your apron, dear readers, and prepare to dive into a midday adventure that’s light, delightful, and much less likely to set the Kitchen on fire.
Ingredients:
- 4 large green lettuce leaves, washed and dried
- 1 cup quinoa, cooked and cooled
- 1 cup grilled chicken breast, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley leaves, chopped
- 1 lemon, zest and juice
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
Step 1: Prepare the Lettuce Leaves
Lay out the lettuce leaves and trim the thick stems so they can be easily folded. Set them aside for later.
Step 2: Mix the Quinoa and Chicken
In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa and grilled chicken. The quinoa provides the base of the wrap, offering a delightful contrast to the flavorful ingredients.
Step 3: Add Fresh Ingredients
Gently fold in the cherry tomatoes, red onion, cucumbers, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, fresh mint, basil, and parsley. This blend of vegetables and herbs creates a medley of colors and aromas that captures the essence of a diverse midday crowd.
Step 4: Zest and Squeeze the Lemon
Grate the zest of one lemon over the mixture, and squeeze its juice to infuse a subtle citrusy tang.
Step 5: Drizzle with Olive Oil
Drizzle the extra-virgin olive oil over the mixture and season it with salt and pepper to taste. Toss all the ingredients until they’re evenly coated, letting the flavors meld together.
Step 6: Assemble the Wraps
Place each prepared lettuce leaf on a clean surface. Spoon the quinoa and chicken mixture into the center of each leaf, then wrap the sides over the filling to create neat little bundles. Secure them with toothpicks if necessary.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Arrange the wraps on a serving platter and let your guests help themselves. These leafy wraps are not only a delight for the taste buds but also a reflection of the harmonious mingling that occurs at midday in Old Nan’s Manor.
As the noonday sun bathes Old Nan’s Manor in golden light, these Elenia’s Green Leaf Wraps stand as a tribute to the diversity that graces our midday gatherings. It’s a moment when the realms come together, and the bustling Manor harmonizes with laughter, chatter, and the clinking of goblets. Each bite of these refreshing wraps is a reminder that, here at midday, our differences are not barriers but bridges, bringing us all closer to the heart of this warm, enchanting kitchen.
So, take a leaf from Elenia’s recipe and enjoy the vibrant taste of unity, right here in the heart of the Manor. Don’t forget to share a laugh with Old Nan – she may roll her eyes, but she knows there’s nothing quite like a good midday meal to keep everyone’s spirits high.
