Save This pickle juice brined turkey club wrap transforms ordinary deli turkey into something extraordinary. The simple brine infuses moisture and tangy flavor into the meat, creating a sandwich that's miles above your standard lunch fare. When paired with crispy bacon and fresh vegetables, it becomes a portable feast that satisfies both hunger and taste buds.
I first made these wraps when looking for ways to use leftover pickle juice instead of pouring it down the drain. My family was skeptical until they took their first bites—now they request these wraps weekly for lunch boxes and quick dinners.
Ingredients
- Pickle juice: provides both tenderizing and flavoring properties. Use juice from your favorite pickles for best results.
- Turkey breast slices: should be medium thickness. Look for minimally processed options without added sodium.
- Bacon: adds smokiness and richness. Choose thick cut for better texture contrast.
- Flour tortillas: provide the perfect wrapper. Select the freshly made variety from your grocery store if available.
- Swiss or cheddar cheese: brings creamy texture. Opt for sliced from the deli counter rather than pre packaged for better melt and flavor.
- Fresh tomatoes: contribute juiciness. Choose ripe but firm varieties that won't make your wrap soggy.
- Romaine lettuce: delivers essential crunch. Select crisp inner leaves for best texture.
- Mayonnaise: creates a creamy base for the spread. Use full fat for richest flavor.
- Dijon mustard: adds tangy depth. Look for authentic French varieties for best flavor.
- Fresh dill: brightens everything. Optional but highly recommended for herbal notes.
Instructions
- Prepare the Brine:
- Place turkey slices in a shallow dish or resealable bag and cover completely with pickle juice. Add black peppercorns if using. Make sure all turkey pieces are submerged for maximum flavor absorption. Refrigerate for at least one hour, though three to four hours will develop even better flavor without making the meat too salty.
- Prepare the Turkey:
- Remove turkey from brine and pat thoroughly dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for preventing soggy wraps. The turkey should look plump and slightly more pink than before brining.
- Make the Special Sauce:
- Combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard and chopped fresh dill in a small bowl. Whisk until completely smooth and uniform. This creates a tangy, creamy spread that elevates the entire wrap.
- Assemble the Base:
- Lay tortillas flat on a clean work surface. Spread a thin, even layer of the mayo mustard mixture over each tortilla, leaving about an inch border around the edges to prevent spillage when rolling.
- Layer the Fillings:
- Start with lettuce as your first layer directly on the sauce. This creates a moisture barrier that keeps the tortilla from getting soggy. Add cheese next, followed by the brined turkey slices, distributing them evenly. Top with bacon strips and finally tomato slices. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Roll the Wraps:
- Fold the bottom edge of tortilla up over the filling, then fold in the sides. Continue rolling from the bottom until completely closed. The motion should be firm but gentle to avoid tearing the tortilla or squeezing out fillings.
- Serve or Store:
- Cut each wrap diagonally with a sharp knife for the most attractive presentation. Secure with toothpicks if needed. Serve immediately or wrap tightly in parchment paper or plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to four hours.
Save I discovered the magic of pickle juice brining during a summer cookout when a friend mentioned using it for chicken. The tangy flavor profile pairs wonderfully with the creamy mayo spread and smoky bacon. My favorite part is how the turkey remains juicy even hours after preparation, making these perfect for packed lunches.
Storage Tips
These wraps can be prepared up to 4 hours ahead of time when stored properly. Wrap each one tightly in parchment paper first, then in aluminum foil or plastic wrap. This double wrapping prevents the tortilla from becoming soggy while maintaining freshness.
For meal prep purposes, you can prepare all components separately and store them in the refrigerator. Brine the turkey up to 24 hours ahead, cook bacon and refrigerate in an airtight container, and mix the sauce up to 3 days in advance. When ready to eat, simply assemble for the freshest results.
If you find yourself with leftover assembled wraps, they can be refrigerated overnight, though the texture of the tortilla may soften slightly. To refresh, warm briefly in a dry skillet over medium heat until just warmed through.
Ingredient Substitutions
This recipe welcomes adaptations based on dietary needs or preferences. For a lower carb option, use large lettuce leaves instead of tortillas to create lettuce wraps. The pickle juice brine works equally well with chicken breast or even firm tofu for vegetarian versions.
The cheese can be swapped according to taste preferences. Provolone offers a mild flavor, while pepper jack adds a spicy kick. For dairy free options, avocado provides a similar creamy texture without the cheese.
Turkey bacon or plant based bacon alternatives work well for those avoiding pork. The key is to ensure whatever substitute you choose provides that essential smoky flavor and textural contrast to the soft turkey and vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
These wraps shine as a complete meal on their own, but they pair wonderfully with sides that complement their flavors. A simple vinegar based coleslaw provides both crunch and acidity that balances the richness of the wrap.
For a heartier meal, serve alongside sweet potato fries or a cup of tomato soup. The sweetness of these sides contrasts beautifully with the tangy pickle brined turkey.
For entertaining, cut the wraps into pinwheels secured with toothpicks for an elegant appetizer presentation. Arrange on a platter with extra pickles and potato chips for a crowd pleasing spread that showcases the star ingredient.
Seasonal Adaptations
Spring Add tender asparagus spears or radish slices for seasonal crunch and color
Summer Incorporate heirloom tomato varieties and basil leaves for garden fresh flavor
Fall Include thinly sliced apple or pear for sweet contrast to the tangy turkey
Success Stories
Many home cooks report that these wraps have become their go to solution for using pickle juice that would otherwise be discarded. One reader shared that she now buys pickles specifically for the juice to make these wraps for her children's school lunches.
Another success comes from office workers who prep these on Sunday for weekday lunches. The sturdy nature of the wraps means they hold up well in lunch boxes, and the high protein content provides sustained energy throughout the afternoon.
Perhaps most impressive are the stories from pickle skeptics who discovered they love the subtle tangy flavor the brine imparts to the turkey. It's not overwhelmingly pickley but adds a dimension of flavor that makes these wraps memorably delicious.
Save These wraps are a delicious and satisfying meal that you'll want to make again and again. Enjoy the unique flavor combination that's sure to impress.
Recipe FAQ
- → Why use pickle juice to brine turkey?
Pickle juice adds tangy flavor and helps keep the turkey moist and tender, resulting in juicier slices for wraps.
- → Can I prepare the turkey ahead of time?
Yes, turkey can be brined up to four hours in advance and stored in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble the wraps.
- → Is there a substitute for bacon?
Smoked chicken, turkey ham, or even vegetarian bacon strips are great alternatives for varying tastes and diets.
- → What kind of cheese works best?
Swiss or cheddar cheese pairs well, but you can use provolone or pepper jack for extra flavor or spice.
- → How do I keep wraps from getting soggy?
Pat the turkey and lettuce dry, spread sauce evenly, and assemble just before eating or wrap tightly if storing.
- → Are these wraps suitable for meal prep?
Yes, prepared wraps can be chilled for up to 4 hours. For best results, assemble close to serving time for freshness.