This Trick Works Every Time For Crispy Tofu

Dana Sandonato

and

Meredith Holser

Jun 08, 2023

No matter how you drain or press it, tofu can be a fickle thing to cook. It's especially challenging when you want it to have a crunchy, crispy exterior and a flavor-packed interior. Deep frying tofu will do the trick, but it's not always the easiest (or safest)method for at-home cooking, and a lot of us are admittedly *not* up to the deep-fried commitment. While sticking to healthy dinner habits, we know you don't want to deal with bland dishes and plant-based proteins, which is why we're sharing this iconic game-changing tofu hack that's backed by plant-based enthusiasts. Read on for the best tofu of your life!

The Best Frozen Tofu Trick

Freezing an extra-firm block of tofu removes unnecessary moisture, giving it a much more desired and complex texture.

"When you freeze a liquid, that liquid expands," says Catherine Perez, a Registered Dietician, plant-based enthusiast, and Founder + Creator of Plant Based RD. "This is what happens internally with tofu when you place it in the freezer. The liquid inside the tofu freezes, and more importantly, expands, creating pockets inside the tofu. As a result, you end up with a chewier, meatier texture."

Freezing the tofu also makes it better for marinating, and it does *wonders* for frying each cube to a golden crisp.

"The resulting pockets also make tofu act more like a sponge," Perez says. "So after you thaw and press the excess water out, you can pour your marinade and the tofu will better absorb it, which will help improve the flavor of the tofu."

You don’t even have to remove the tofu from its original packaging — simply slice a small hole into the package you bought, drain the excess water, place the package into a sealable plastic bag, and pop it into the freezer for 4-8 hours before use.

How To Unfreeze Tofu – Thaw Or Boil

To unfreeze your frozen tofu, you can either let it thaw completely by setting it out on a counter at room temperature, or briefly boil it.

To thaw:

Take your tofu out of the freezer and set it out at room temperature.
Wait 8 hours – or leave it overnight to make it easy – to let the tofu thaw out completely.
Once thawed, using your hands or a tofu press, carefully press out any remaining moisture.

To boil:

After freezing the tofu, start boiling some water in a saucepan big enough to accomodate your tofu.
Once the water is boiling, submerge the tofu and let the water return to a boil.
Reduce the heat to a simmer, and let the tofu cook for about 15 minutes. The frozen tofu might have a yellowish hue to it, but this is totally normal. Once you boil it, it will fade back to a healthy shade of white.
Carefully remove the tofu from the simmering water and set it out on a plate lined with paper towels or napkins. Let it cool.
Once cooled, continue to pat with paper towels or press the tofu until it's dry. Now you're ready to cut and prepare it how you'd like!

No matter the method you use, pressing the tofu makes a big difference in texture and taste. Perez recommends investing in a tofu press since it's a *much* more environmentally-friendly solution than pressing tofu with your hands into paper towels (and ultimately wasting them) would be.

If you find yourself crunched for kitchen time – or just don't want to do the heavy-lifting – Perez offers her greatest hack:

"Truly, my secret weapon when I'm feeling lazy is using a pre-pressed tofu like Nasoya's Super Firm Tofu. Firmer tofus like this tend to come in vacuum-sealed packages and require no additional pressing. Just remove from the package, pat dry, and you are ready to go."

Cooking The Tofu

You'll want to pan-fry the tofu for a quick, easy way to achieve crispness.

First, heat a skillet over medium-high heat, and add your choice of a high-heat cooking oil. You want the oil to be quite hot before adding the tofu, but *not* to the point where it’s smoking.

Cut your tofu into cubes and allow them to cook in the oil for about 5 minutes, checking on the browning process periodically. When the cubes are golden brown, gently flip them, and continue to brown each side. This should only take about 10 minutes tops! Once all of the sides are golden and crisp, remove them from the pan.

From there, you're prepped to toss them into salads, stir-fries, noodle dishes – or just eat them on their own. Seriously, they’re that good. But if you're looking for a *bit* more flavor, we've got the tips for that, too!

Flavoring Tofu

Tofu is a blank slate, so it *begs* for flavor, no matter how well you initially crisp it.

Marinating the tofu in different sauce mixtures is the ultimate way to bring some flavor action to your protein. Simply add your marinade to a sealable bag or bowl with prepped chopped or torn tofu and let it sit for as long as overnight. From there, you can pan-fry it using the guide above.

"I often remind people that preparing tofu is not too dissimilar to how we approach preparing meat dishes," Perez says. "Make sure to use sauces you love and be generous with the spices so you can really add in flavor. If you don't have time to marinate, I recommend crumbling or shredding your tofu and cooking it up with a sauce."

When you bring your tofu to the pan, get creative with adding soy sauce, hot sauce, or ginger. If you add garlic, add it near the end of the cooking time, as garlic burns quickly – and burnt garlic is what misery is made of. You can also toss the tofu into a dressing right after it’s been cooked, or serve it with a dunk-able dipping sauce.

You don't have to opt for stovetop cooking, though – "you can freeze it, bake it, pan fry it, shred it, crumble it, saute it, or turn it into deli slices to name a few," Perez says. "I always encourage those that have not tried (it or have had a bad experience with it) to go back to it and try it a different way!"

Do you have any awesome tofu hacks we should know about? Tweet us @BritandCo!

Photography by Dana Sandonato / Brit + Co.

This post has been updated.

Quotes have been edited for clarity.

41 Easter Side Dishes Everyone At The Table Will Adore

If you've been invited to an Easterpotluck but haven't made an Easter side dish yet, have no fear! These unexpected, vibrant dishes are here to steal the show! From creamy casseroles and dips to seasonal soups and refreshing salads, there's something on this list that everyone will want a bite of.

Choose from 41 delightful Easter recipes that work as appetizers and savor an Easter Sunday with a feast for family and friends.

Feel Good Foodie

Green Goddess Salad

If you're looking for a healthy Easter side dish that still tastes amazing, this Green Goddess salad is right up your alley. The dressing is full of lemon juice, cheese, rice vinegar, and garlic for a seriously yummy side dish. (via Feel Good Foodie for Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Bite-Sized Eggs Benedict

Even if you're not having an Easter brunch extravaganza, we're all about breakfast for dinner, so we'll add these bites to our menu regardless. (via Brit + Co)

Evolving Table

Mashed Cauliflower Purée

Cauliflower has become an Easter side dish fave, and this garlicky recipe (also keto!) only gives us more reasons to keep the momentum going. (via Evolving Table for Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Scallion & Greek Yogurt Slow-Cooker Mashed Potatoes

Despite the intricate, show-stopping appearance of these mashed potatoes, they're surprisingly easy to put together, thanks to your slow-cooker! (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Cheesy, Garlic-Roasted Asparagus

No one is going to pass up a vegetable that tastes like garlic bread... or one that's covered in cheese, at that. (via Brit + Co)

Alan Campbell

Greens & Citrus Salad with Tahini-Ginger Dressing

With plenty of veg and flavorful add-ins, this salad is clearly too legit to quit. (via Season: A Year of Wine Country Food, Farming, Family, & Friends for Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Keto Cheesy Brussels Sprouts With Bacon

This hearty Easter side dish is as easy as it is delicious. After all, everything is better with bacon and plenty of cheese sauce. (via Brit + Co)

Courtesy of The Unofficial Bridgerton Cookbook

Portia's Green Soup

We've been dreaming about this Bridgerton-inspired recipe, and we're pretty sure you will be, too. Avocado, cucumber, and chives give 'refreshing' a whole new meaning. (via The Unofficial Bridgerton Cookbook for Brit + Co)

Jessica Smith

DIY Potato Salad

The herbs in this potato salad make it totally spring-ready. It's also a great option for all your spring picnics and summer BBQ get-togethers! (via Brit + Co)

Justina Huddleston

Roasted Broccoli

If you’re feeding a crowd of picky eaters with different dietary needs, this tasty Easter side dish is a must. It’s also vegan, paleo, and Whole30-friendly! (via Justina Huddleston for Brit + Co)

Melanie Burke

Steamed Artichoke with Garlic Butter

If someone in your crew claims that they aren’t "into vegetables," the dreamy garlic butter that's used for dunking this steamed artichoke might just be a turning point for them. They'll thank you after they've devoured this whole Easter side dish! (via Melanie Burke for Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Sweet Potatoes in a Blanket

Why serve crescent rolls solo when you can stuff them with roasted sweet potato wedges, caramelized onions, and melty cheese? (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Crispy Smashed Potatoes with Pink Tahini Sauce

You can’t go wrong with crispy smashed 'taters, especially when they’re served with plenty of gooey brie cheese. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Crunchy Green Beans with Butter

Green beans might not seem like an exciting Easter side dish to bring to a potluck, but we guarantee these will be a crowd-pleaser. The original recipe makes enough for just four people, so adjust it accordingly! (via Brit + Co)

Sarah Anderson

Smoked Salmon Poke Bites

These easy bites work as a side dish to your entrée, or as an appetizer that you can snack on before the rest of the fam arrives for Easter dinner. You can totally customize these babies and remove or add any ingredients that you wish. (via Sarah Anderson for Brit + Co)

Half Baked Harvest

Baked Artichokes With Honey Whipped Feta

Dip these baked panko-coated artichokes into a sweet and creamy honey-whipped feta cheese for all your spring holidays. Everyone's going to love it at Easter! (via Half Baked Harvest)

Give Recipe

Cheesy Cabbage Casserole

Here us out on cabbage: when you bake this underrated veg with cheese and herbs, even kids will love it. (via Give Recipe)

The Girl On Bloor

Cream of Asparagus Soup

This perfect spring soup turns our favorite spring veg into the star of the show. It's full of fresh and vibrant flavors! (via The Girl On Bloor)

Barley & Sage

Roasted Golden Beet Salad with Farro

Roasted beets, farro, goat cheese, and crunchy almonds are a perfect side for a crowd and meal for everyday. (via Barley & Sage)

No Eggs or Ham

Toast with Oregano-Truffle Cream Cheese & Tomatoes

Inspired by breakfast in Barcelona, this simple recipe of toasted bread is topped with olive oil, tomatoes, and oregano-truffle cream cheese is so good. (via No Eggs or Ham)

Gastroplant

Kale Stir Fry with Mushroom & Red Onion

Seasoned with balsamic vinegar and soy sauce, this simple and satisfying side dish takes just 15 minutes to make! (via Gastroplant)

This Wife Cooks

Cabbage And Peas

Add a pop of spring green to your table with this bright salad made from cabbage and sweet peas. (via This Wife Cooks)

Pink Owl Kitchen

Southern Baked Mac & Cheese

If you're looking for classic, soul food on your Easter Sunday this creamy baked macaroni and cheese with a crusty top is the best! (via Pink Owl Kitchen)

Veggie Society

Vegan Split Pea Soup

Creamy split green peas and golden potatoes made in a dutch oven is a delicious vegan meal.(via Veggie Society)

Forks & Foliage

Cucumber Mint Yogurt Salad

This refreshing, creamy dish is super simple and requires just 5 minutes to make. Pair it with toasty bread or crackers for the ultimate Easter side dish! (via Forks & Foliage)

Feel Good Foodie

Roasted Parmesan Potatoes

Crispy potatoes are always a crowd pleaser. These oven-roasted parmesan baby potatoes are a perfect as a side dish no matter what season. (via Feel Good Foodie)

Amanda Wilens

Simple Charcuterie Board

Stand out from the potluck crowd with a gorgeous charcuterie board. Amanda Wilens shows you how to build one to impress. (via Amanda Wilens)

A Spicy Perspective

Focaccia Bread with Roasted Garlic & Olives

This focaccia has a rich olive oil flavor with pieces of roasted garlic and Kalamata olives to add briny contrast. It makes a wonderful, carby side dish for any Easter potluck spread! (via A Spicy Perspective)

Takes Two Eggs

Korean Corn Cheese

Corn and mozzarella cheese makes for a delicious side dish that's fairly easy to make – and even easier to devour. (via Takes Two Eggs)

The Edgy Veg

Grilled Peaches & Pimento Pizza

Bring the pizza party to the Easter potluck with this seasonal dish you can easily grill or bake. (via The Edgy Veg)

Culinary Hill

Farro Salad with Peas & Feta

This light and delicious farro salad has peas, arugula, feta, and a juicy lemon dressing. (via Culinary Hill)

Fancy Peasant

Zucchini Chips

Make chips for your favorite dip from zucchini and eggplant for the best Easter potluck starter around! (via Fancy Peasant)

Simply Quinoa

Creamy Vegan Ricotta Dip

Spread this tofu-based ricotta dip on toast, in a pasta dish, as a dip, or even in a lasagna. It comes together in about 10 minutes! (via Simply Quinoa)

Salt & Lavender

Hot Spinach Artichoke Dip

Loaded with flavor and so much cheese, this hot spinach and artichoke dip will definitely get the Easter party started. (via Salt & Lavender)

Rachel Mansfield

Lemony Spring Pasta Salad

Gluten-free noodles absorb liquid more than regular pasta so keep some extra lemony dressing on the side of this springy pasta dish. (via Rachel Mansfield)

The Endless Meal

Bang Bang Cauliflower

Spicy, sweet, and incredibly easy to make, these bite-sized cauliflower bit are so good tossed in a homemade bang bang sauce. (via The Endless Meal)

Cozy Cravings

Spinach and Ricotta Puff Pastry Pinwheels

This easy vegetarian appetizer recipe is made with creamy spinach, melty ricotta, salty parmesan, and earthy spinach wrapped up in flaky, buttery puff pastry. Sold! (via Cozy Cravings)

Chef Bai

Truffle Beet Carpaccio with Pistachio And Capers

We never met a dish with capers we didn't like! Add sweet beets and arugula with the smokey marinade for a tastebud-satisfying treat. (via Chef Bai)

Two Spoons

Vegan Caesar Salad

The vegan caesar dressing in this fresh recipe is made with tahini, lemon, and dijon mustard for a creamy, tangy, and refreshing bite! (via Two Spoons)

Live Eat Learn

Mediterranean Layered Hummus Dip

Hummus topped with roasted pepper, chipotle, roasted garlic, and jalapeño cilantro is on a whole other level. (via Live Eat Learn)

Cilantro Parsley

Prosciutto Ricotta Toast

Toasty bread topped with crispy prosciutto and creamy ricotta, lemon, honey, and basil is a side to add to your party rotation. (via Cilantro Parsley)

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This post has been updated.

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8 "Outdated" Early 2000s Fashion Trends That Aged Horribly

While some Y2K looks have made a huge comeback, like denim skirts, butterfly clips, halter tops, and cargo pants, there's a seemingly endless amount of strange fashion trends from this era that are just cringeworthy today.

From massive, clunky belts to chunky highlights and ultra mini skirts that could've fallen off at any moment, these style choices might be nostalgic, but they wouldn't hold up on retail racks in 2025. So, in my humble opinion, here are the worst early 2000s fashion trends that have aged terribly.

Scroll to see all the outdated 2000s fashion trends that we should totally leave behind...

1. Dresses Over Jeans

Urban Outfitters

Wearing a dress is already enough of an ordeal, particularly when you have to use the restroom. Yet, for some reason, this process was made even more complicated with the infamous dresses-over-jeans look.

The 2000s loved layering, whether it made sense or not, so dresses were just thrown on over jeans, even for the red carpet. The result was a strange combination that wasn't functional or fashion-forward. And if you wanna try it for yourself in 2025, this Urban Outfitters dress seems to work for the trend...

2. Skinny Scarves

Free People

These ridiculously thin pieces of fabric served no real purpose other than to add another layer to an outfit. Nonetheless, the skinny scarf was used to spice up all kinds of ensembles, from dresses to basic T-shirts with jeans.

Let's save scarves for, well, when our necks need to be kept warm in the fall or winter. Otherwise, the tiny piece of fabric isn't doing anything for us except adding noise.

3. Big Belts

Princess Polly

Do you remember the giant belts that Y2K celebs wore high on their waist or super low on their hips? They typically had flashy buckles or heavy metal details and wouldn't even fit through jean belt loops!

Again, Y2K fashion followed the "go big or go home" mentality and big belts were no exception. They just weren't practical, flattering, or necessary most of the time.

4. Wedge Heels 24/7

ASOS

We all know that certain trends have the power to last for more than one decade. Wedge heels were one of them, infiltrating the early 2000s and remaining the go-to footwear for literally all occasions.

Nowadays, wedge heels are generally reserved for more casual or even beachy outings. But during this era, they had us in a chokehold and were worn for nights out and even by celebs on the red carpet.

5. Striped Highlights

Scott Gries/Getty Images

Given how balayages are all the rage today, it's unimaginable why anyone wanted chunky stripes of highlights in their hair during the early 2000s.

To be clear, there's nothing inherently wrong with experimenting with your hair, but this bold style was both hard to maintain and super patchy, making it just painful to look at. I don't envision this trend making a resurgence anytime soon.

6. Pirate Pants

Anthropologie

Thanks to M.C. Hammer, teens and young adults ate up wide, voluminous pants. Then, this garment got its own spin in the 2000s with the rise of Pirate Pants — or baggy joggers.

They tapered around the ankles, puffed around the thighs, and made everyone look pretty pear-shaped. We commend the fashion risk-taking, but the result didn't really complement any silhouettes.

7. Neckties

Princess Polly

Arguably, one of the most random accessories to pop up in this decade was the necktie, particularly in punk-inspired fashion.

Avril Lavigne was this trend's trailblazer and added ties to tons of her outfits, even if she was just wearing jeans and a tank top. This look never made sense and, in hindsight, feels a lot more misplaced than edgy.

8. Ultra Mini Skirts

Urban Outfitters

Finally, the ultra mini is perhaps one of Y2K's worst offenders. These barely-there skirts were so tiny that I don't even know how they stayed in place.

The idea was that you'd get to show off your legs, but with one wrong move, you'd end up accidentally revealing much more. Again, kudos to 2000s celebs for trying out something bold, but the constant stress isn't worth it. Thankfully, our more recent ultra minis are skorts, now!

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

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45 High-Protein Wraps To Make For A Deliciously Filling Lunch

You're always on a mission to have the best lunch, no matter what day of the week it is. Fancy sandwich recipes can keep you going for a while, but sometimes you want something completely different... and a little more satisfying. If you find yourself getting bored of the same old lunches day in and day out, these high-protein wraps will spice things up without making you feel totally bleh!

These high-protein wraps are delicious, easy to prep, and so protein-packed. That's a win-win-win in our book! Keep reading for a roundup of some of the best healthy mid-day meals that you can make for a quick lunch or dinner. Skipped breakfast? We've also got a few egg-centric wraps to get you through the day.

Have fun getting creative with these easy high-protein wraps and recipes!

High-Protein Wraps From Brit + Co

Brittany Griffin

Keto Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Whether you're chowing down on these wraps for a snack or a full meal, they'll hold a deliciously bright flavor that's super refreshing for a food break. (via Anna Monette Roberts forBrit + Co)

Chef Bai

Vegan Lettuce Wraps

Originally developed by Chef Bai, these vegan lettuce wraps have all the ingredients you need to feel your best. (via Chef Bai for Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Bulked up with plenty of flavorful chicken, these lettuce wraps are far from those lousy, low-protein recipes. (via Brit + Co)

High-Protein Wraps With Chicken

Half Baked Harvest

Greek Goddess Chicken Wraps

Roasted chicken, avocado, olives, cucumbers make this wrap an easy and delicious combo. Pair it with pita and go lighter on the carbs with lettuce. Either way, you'll find these will be your go-to lunch or dinner wrap year-round! (via Half Baked Harvest)

Half Baked Harvest

Buffalo Chicken + Avocado BLT Wrap

The secret ingredient here? Potato chips for extra crunch. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Cilantro Parsley

Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Your classic chicken teriyaki in a healthy lettuce wrap will keep your energy up, post-lunch. (via Cilantro Parsley)

Whole Foods

Coconut Curry Wrap

These high-protein wraps host a flavorful kick of spices, perfectly paired with a little apple crunch. (via Whole Foods)

Spices in my DNA

Mexican Chicken Quinoa Salad Wraps

Quinoa + beans + chicken = the high-protein trifecta. You won't find yourself reaching for a snack a few hours later, because this Mexican wrap will fill you up – and then some. (viaSpices in my DNA)

Cooking Classy

Greek Grilled Chicken + Hummus Wrap

This wrap is everything you love from your go-to Greek lunch spot. Did someone say CAVA dupe?! You have tons of veggies and olives, tangy feta cheese and chicken and hummus (both of which are full of protein) in these high-protein wraps. (via Cooking Classy)

The Cozy Apron

Grilled Lemon Chicken Flatbread Wraps with Spicy Garlic Sauce

Take your leftover grilled chicken from dinner the night before, squeeze a lil' lemon on it, and whip up this wrap for lunch. Just add the homemade spicy garlic sauce to these high-protein wraps, and you have a whole new meal in your hands! (via The Cozy Apron)

Tastes Better From Scratch

Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Wraps

Take your lunch outside and enjoy it in the sunshine for once! When you get back to work after lunch, you’ll be reenergized from your Hawaiian-influences high-protein wraps, and your 30 minutes of vitamin D. (via Tastes Better From Scratch)

Tara’s Multicultural Table

Grilled Chicken Naan Wraps with Roasted Red Pepper Tahini Sauce

Playing around with different high-protein wraps is a fun way to switch up your mealtime routine. This grilled chicken wrap is housed in Indian naan bread and drizzled with a nutty red pepper tahini sauce. Dreamy! (via Tara’s Multicultural Table)

Tried and Tasty

Chicken, Spinach & Cream Cheese Tortilla Wrap

You’ll feel like Popeye when you eat this chicken spinach wrap for lunch! Not only are these high-protein wraps filled with fresh spinach, they're also all wrapped up in a yummy spinach tortilla. (via Tried and Tasty)

Taste & Tell

California Chicken Club Wrap

Turn your favorite sandwich order into a portable feast! These chicken club high-protein wraps have a double-dose of protein from the bacon and chicken, and will keep you full until your work day is over. The recipe even incorporates fruit for a varied taste and texture. (viaTaste & Tell)

Feel Good Foodie

Grilled Chicken + Broccoli Wraps

Tender chicken and broccoli are seasoned to perfection with a cheesy filling in these high-protein wraps. This recipe is the best mix of delicious and healthy! (via Feel Good Foodie)

Skinny Ms.

Chicken Caesar Wrap

You’re going to love this Caesar salad-inspired wrap. It has strips of tender chicken breast and a zesty homemade Caesar dressing made with protein-rich Greek yogurt. Get ready to make your salad-loving coworkers jeal-ous! (via Skinny Ms.)

The Real Food Dietitians

BLT Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps

Upgrade your classic BLT with tender chicken chunks, creamy avocado oil mayo, red onion, fresh chives and avocado for a healthy and hearty lunch or dinner. Yum! (via The Real Food Dietitians)

Salt & Lavender

Waldorf Chicken Salad Wrap

Apples and walnuts gives these high-protein wraps a delightful crunch. The protein-packed chicken salad included can be made in a big batch at the start of the week for an easy and healthy meal prep option! (via Salt & Lavender)

The Girl on Bloor

Kale Chicken Caesar Wrap

This Chicken Caesar wrap is a lot healthier since it uses a lighter homemade Caesar dressing, chicken breast, multigrain wraps and kale (which is full of good nutrients). (via The Girl on Bloor)

High-Protein Wraps With Egg

Feel Good Foodie

Mediterranean Egg Wrap

This versatile wrap is perfect for breakfast or lunch, and will keep you satisfied through whatever the work day brings. Dress it up with veggies and cheese for added taste. (via Feel Good Foodie)

A Spicy Perspective

Keto Breakfast Egg Wrap

This low-carb wrap is stuffed with chicken sausage, avocado, and jalapeño cream cheese for a heavenly breakfast bite. (via A Spicy Perspective)

A Spicy Perspective

Keto Egg Roll Wrap

These warm wraps are inspired by your favorite egg rolls – yum! They're keto-friendly and especially high in protein, thanks to the eggs and meat. You'll want to eat one every single day. (via A Spicy Perspective)

High-Protein Wraps With Beef + Pork

Forks & Foliage

Beef + Lamb Shawarma Wrap

This Lebanese street food makes for a perfect lemony, garlicky savory lunch. Marinated beef and Greek yogurt give this recipe a boost of protein! (viaForks & Foliage)

Averie Cooks

Spicy Pork Lettuce Wraps

These spicy pork wraps are so easy to make and ready in less than 20 minutes. Here's your high protein, gluten-free dinner to add to your dinner rotation! (via Averie Cooks)

The Endless Meal

Carnitas Tacos Lettuce Wrap

Crunchy, juicy, and delicious taco flavors swarm every bite of this lettuce wrap. Choose to wrap in lettuce or a tortilla, depending on your mood. (via The Endless Meal)

The Endless Meal

Steak Lettuce Wrap

Prefer to keep it light with lettuce wraps? You'll never miss a thing with this savory, steak-centered recipe. (via The Endless Meal)

Mission Foods

Cuban Press

Panini-fy this wrap for a warm protein-packed lunch! (via Mission Foods)

Maebells

Loaded Philly Cheese Steak Wraps

A good Philly cheese steak can be hard to find. Skip the search and make your own version into a portable wrap that’s totally desk-appropriate. (via Maebells)

Salt & Lavender

Healthy Ham Wrap

Customize these high-protein wraps with your favorite veggies (or just any ingredients you have lying around), and you can have a healthy lunch on the table in just 10 minutes! (via Salt & Lavender)

Emily Bites

Black + Blue Steak Wraps

It doesn’t get much more protein-filled than a steak wrap! Your work buddies will be begging for a taste of this steakhouse-style lunch at the office. (via Emily Bites)

High-Protein Wraps With Seafood

Kathryn's Kitchen

Cilantro Lime Shrimp Lettuce Wraps

These fresh and tasty Shrimp Lettuce Wraps are full of flavor with lime, garlic and cilantro, plus a little guac and salsa! (via Kathryn's Kitchen)

The Healthy Foodie

Tuna Wrap

Walnuts, raisins, and capers give these tuna high-protein wraps a sweet n' salty vibe. If you don’t like mayo, try using Greek yogurt as your tuna salad binder instead, for added protein. (via The Healthy Foodie)

Goodie Godmother

Spicy Tuna Wraps

Give your usual tuna salad a little zest by adding a squirt of Sriracha to the mix! Spread it on a whole wheat tortilla with some fresh veggies and you’re good to go! You could also get fancy with your high-protein wraps and use rice paper rolls with this recipe. (via Goodie Godmother)

Whole And Heavenly Oven

Hot Honey Salmon Wrap

Here's a hot tip: add hot honey-glazed salmon, avocado, and a creamy scallion slaw for an instant lunch upgrade! (via Whole And Heavenly Oven)

High-Protein Wraps With Veggies

Veggie Primer

Easy Black Bean Wrap

Making sure you have enough protein is important, especially if you're a vegan eater. Black beans are a great plant-based source of protein, and go perfectly in this lunchtime wrap. (via Veggie Primer)

Food Faith Fitness

Vegan Grilled Sweet Potato + Mint-Tahini Cauliflower Rice Wraps

These vegan wraps are a light and healthy lunch option that won’t put you in a total food coma for the afternoon. Prep them on Sunday, and you can have a healthy lunch every day of the week. (viaFood Faith Fitness)

Live Eat Learn

Portobello Mushroom Gyro

Seasoned with Mediterranean spices, these high-protein wraps are satisfyingly drizzled with a creamy tzatziki saucethat brings the protein. (via Live Eat Learn)

Two Spoons

Green Goddess Wrap

Mashed avocado, arugula, purple cabbage, edamame, and zucchini all wrapped in a warm wholegrain wrap will treat your body so good. (viaTwo Spoons)

Foodiecrush

Hummus Veggie Wrap

Homemade spicy hummus serves as the main protein source for this vegetarian lunch wrap. It’s packed with cucumbers, tomatoes, sprouts, spinach and avocado. Even though there’s no meat, you’ll be full and focused for the rest of the work day! (via Foodiecrush)

Culinary Hill

Ultimate Veggie Wrap

With herbed cream cheese and Havarti cheese, this fresh veggie wrap is anything but boring. (via Culinary Hill)

Cilantro & Parsley

Vegan Tofu Wrap

Vegan Caesar dressing, flour tortillas, baked tofu, and pico de gallo make for some easy and flavorful high-protein wraps in you're eating plant-based. (via Cilantro & Parsley)

Veggie Primer

Vegan BBQ Tempeh Coleslaw Wrap

Even meat-eaters will be drawn to this easy, healthy, and plant-based wrap recipe. The coleslaw is wrapped up inside these high-protein wraps, so all you need is a side of sweet potato wedges to complete your meal. (via Veggie Primer)

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Chard Sandwich Wrap

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Spinach And Feta Wrap

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Bonus Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Wrap from Half Baked Harvest!

Half Baked Harvest

As a bonus, we're throwing in one of our favorite easy and healthy wrap recipes that pushed all the right buttons on flavor. You'll combine shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, herbs, lettuce, and a little cheddar cheese, fold them up in wraps, then pan-fry until warm and crispy!

These easy wraps, made by Half Baked Harvest, come together in mere minutes. They're crunchy on the outside, cheesy on the inside. Serve with the deliciously creamy jalapeño lime ranch and additional buffalo sauce! These healthy wraps are great for both lunch and dinner, but equally fun for a game night, too!

First things first: start with the buffalo chicken. Shred up a couple of chicken breasts and toss them with homemade buffalo sauce, Greek yogurt (for creaminess), and fresh herbs. Most buffalo chicken fillings are made with cream cheese, but you can swap in yogurt for a healthier choice.

Ingredients:

1 cup cooked shredded chicken
1/4 cup plain greek yogurt
1/3 cup buffalo sauce
2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
1 tablespoon dried parsley
1 teaspoon dried dill
4 large (burrito size) whole wheat or gluten-free tortillas
2 cups shredded romaine lettuce
1-2 jalapeños or poblano peppers, chopped
3 green onions, chopped
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
Olive oil, for cooking

Ingredients for jalapeño ranch:

1 cup plain Greek yogurt
1/2 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 cup pickled jalapeños chopped + 2 tablespoons brine
Juice from 1 lime
1 teaspoon kosher salt

To assemble:

Make a cut down the center of your tortillas, then add the chicken to one corner, and the greens to another corner, and finally the cheese to another. Fold it all up, then pan-fry. So you've got...

One-quarter of buffalo chicken
Another quarter wrap of greens n' things
A quarter full of ranch
And finally a quarter full of cheese
Fold it all up into one triangle

Instructions:

In a bowl, combine the chicken, yogurt, buffalo sauce, chives, parsley, and dill.
To make the ranch. Combine all ingredients in a bowl.
To assemble, cut down from the center of the tortilla to the edge. Spread the chicken in the bottom left corner, then add a handful of the lettuce, jalapeño/poblano pepper, and green onions on the top left corner. Spread the ranch on the top right corner, and the cheese on the bottom right corner. Fold the buffalo chicken over the lettuce. Then, working clock-wise, folding that quarter over the ranch. And finally, fold that quarter over the cheese.
Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a skillet, add 1 wrap and cook 2-3 minutes per side until crisp and golden brown. Serve warm with extra buffalo sauce, ranch, and lettuce.

Find more quick easy lunch recipes and more on our Food section, get inspired on Pinterest, or join our newsletter for more snackable recipes and tips!

This post has been updated.

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Um, Julia Schlaepfer Told Us Spencer & Alex Would "Barely" Reunite Before '1923' Season 2 Premiered

Considering the popularity of Alex and Spencer's relationship in 1923, it might surprise you to know Julia Schlaepfer was nervous to bring the "special" story to life with actor Brandon Sklenar. "I was a little nervous because I was like, 'This is such a big universe and I want [fans] to love it as much as they love 1883 and Yellowstone,'" she tells Brit + Co exclusively.

Here's what Julia Schlaepfer had to say about Brandon Sklenar, Alex and Spencer, and Harrison Ford in Brit + Co's exclusive 1923 season 2 interview.

Julia Schlaepfer says filming '1923' with Brandon Sklenar felt like a "secret."

Emerson Miller/Paramount+

"Brandon [Sklenar] and I, when we were filming [season 1] in Africa, we would talk all the time about how it felt like we were making this really secret little indie movie together because we were so separate from the rest of the cast," she says. "Everything was so new to us, we were in Africa, and so it kind of felt like a secret. It felt like a very personal thing."

She didn't quite realize just how special 1923 was until she finally got to see the show's opener. "I'll never forget actually, [when] our producer Michael Friedman showed us the opening credits for the first time," Julia adds. "We were in Malta and we were doing the swimming sequence and he was like, 'I have to show this to you guys because I don't think you know how special it is.'"

"Our names pop up right after Harrison Ford and Helen Mirren and we all, like, cried together, and I think I was like, "Oh, this is so exciting and big,'" she continues. "It's been so special and I'm really glad that the fans like it."

But for the new episodes, Julia Schlaepfer and Brandon Sklenar "barely" saw each other.

Yep, after countless fan edits, I can confidently say fans love Alex and Spencer — but (to my utter heartbreak), Julia teases we'll see way less of her and Brandon onscreen together this time around after season 1 split up their characters in the finale.

"It was very separate," she says of filming the upcoming episodes. "I mean, we block shot as well, so we were all kind of coming in at different times to film, but no, we did not [see each other a lot...Season one we spent all our time together, this season we barely spent any time together. It was very much like, suddenly we were ripped apart. But that's what the characters are going through."

Now, this is a huge tease for what to expect from 1923 season 2 (and might even be a spoiler) because some fans' biggest questions are: What episode does Spencer get home in 1923 season 2? When are Alex and Spencer going to reunite?! Unfortunately, it looks like it'll take a bit before we see them together again.

Even though it was an "odd" and "isolating" thing, and a "totally opposite experience" from filming the first season, Julia says the split "works for the characters this season, you know. It was very helpful as an actor because that's what they're going through as well."

Fans can expect to see a whole new side to Alex in '1923' season 2.

Lauren Smith/Paramount+

Even though Alex is on her own, it was important to Julia that she still have that "sparkle" we all love. "It was about digging deep and finding a more scrappy side to her," she says. "It was tricky because I didn't want to lose Alex's sparkle, I didn't want to lose the vivacious, happy side of her, but she's going through something completely different. So bringing the core of who she is and what she stands for and how deeply she loves and how bravely she lives combined with, you know, the fear and the determination was, it was a really great challenge as an actor. But yeah, we see a lot more grit from her this season, I would say."

And not only does Julia love Alex's grit, but she's inspired by her ferocity.

"Since starting season one, I'm like, 'I have to live like that,'" she says. "She follows her happiness like so fiercely and I was like, 'Why aren't I doing that? What can I do to bring more joy to my life and to live as honestly as she lives?' I've learned a lot from her."

Read up on The 1923 Season 1 Ending, Deaths, & Betrayals, Explained before season 2 premieres! And check out our interview with actress Michelle Randolph, where she teases we'll finally "fill in some blanks" in the Dutton family tree!

This interview has been edited for length and clarity.

This post has been updated.

1923 pop culture entertainment interview tv

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Have fun getting creative with these easy high-protein wraps and recipes!

High-Protein Wraps From Brit + Co

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Bonus Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Wrap ​from Half Baked Harvest!

Here's what Julia Schlaepfer had to say about Brandon Sklenar, Alex and Spencer, and Harrison Ford in Brit + Co's exclusive 1923 season 2 interview.

Julia Schlaepfer says filming '1923' with Brandon Sklenar felt like a "secret."

But for the new episodes, Julia Schlaepfer and Brandon Sklenar "barely" saw each other.

Fans can expect to see a whole new side to Alex in '1923' season 2.

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Bonus Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Wrap from Half Baked Harvest!