Taco Lettuce Wraps

Here in Texas, we love our tacos. With beef, pork, or chicken, soft or crunchy shells, cheese, hot sauce - for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or a snack. You can buy packets of taco seasoning, but it's so easy to make! For a healthier version, I pile the meat and toppings onto lettuce leaves instead of taco shells.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef (80/20 or 85/15)

• 2 teaspoons chili powder

• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

• 1/4 teaspoon dry oregano

• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

• 1 teaspoon cumin

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/4 cup tomato paste

• 1 head iceberg lettuce (or Bibb if you prefer)

• 3 tomatoes, chopped

• 1 cup queso fresco, crumbled (or shredded cheddar)

• 1 cup jarred salsa

• 1 cup sour cream

• Optional - chopped cilantro, squeeze of lime

Preparation:

1. In a small bowl, stir together chili powder, garlic powder, red pepper flakes, oregano, paprika, cumin, salt and pepper. Set aside.

2. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet. Drain and return to the stove.

3. Add spice mix. Stir to coat the beef. Add tomato paste and 1/2 cup water. Heat until water evaporates.

4. Slice the head of lettuce in half and separate into leaves or little cups.

5. Assemble your tacos in the lettuce leaves: 1-2 tablespoons beef, topped with tomatoes, cheese, salsa, sour cream, and cilantro. Squeeze a little lime juice over them and you have a flavor-packed healthy meal!