Leafy greens have had a hard time becoming popular. Often viewed as diet food or ‘rabbit food’, lettuce especially has gone sorely underappreciated. Aside from being health-conscious, lettuce can add a whole new dimension of crunch and flavour to any dish and since there are so many different types they deserve to be recognised for their unique qualities.
Lettuce is a versatile leafy vegetable that can be used in a variety of dishes, from salads to sandwiches to wraps. When choosing which lettuce to use, it's important to consider the dish you're making and the other ingredients you'll be using. By choosing the right lettuce, you can enhance the flavours and textures of your dish and create a truly delicious meal.
Iceberg Lettuce
Iceberg lettuce is perhaps the most common type of lettuce found in grocery stores. It has a crisp texture and a mild, slightly sweet flavour. Because of its texture, it's often used in salads, burgers, and sandwiches. It's also a good choice for wraps, as it holds its shape well.
Romaine Lettuce
Romaine lettuce has a slightly bitter taste and a crunchy texture. It's often used in Caesar salads, as its texture makes it an excellent choice for holding dressing. It's also a good choice for sandwiches and wraps.
Butter Lettuce
Butter lettuce as the name suggests has a delicate, buttery flavour and a tender texture. It's often used in salads and sandwiches, as its leaves are soft and easy to eat. It's also a good choice for use as a bed for other ingredients, such as grilled chicken or shrimp.
Arugula
Arugula has a peppery, slightly bitter taste and a tender texture. It's often used in salads and as a garnish for pizzas and other dishes. It can also be used in sandwiches and wraps, as its flavour is strong enough to stand up to other ingredients.
Radicchio
Radicchio has a slightly bitter taste and a crunchy texture. It's often used in salads and as a garnish for pizzas and other dishes. It's also a good choice for grilling or roasting, as its bitter flavour mellows out when cooked.
Endive
Endive has a slightly bitter taste and a crunchy texture. It's often used in salads and as a garnish for appetisers and other dishes. It's also a good choice for use as a bed for other ingredients, such as grilled chicken or shrimp.
Green Leaf Lettuce
Green leaf lettuce has a mild, slightly sweet flavour and a delicate texture. It's often used in salads, sandwiches, and wraps. Its leaves are large and have a slightly curly edge, making it a good choice for adding volume and texture to your dish.