Ed’s Produce: Lettuce 101

The number of lettuce varieties are endless! Some of the most popular types include Iceberg and Romaine, but there are many more that deserve the spotlight too! Here are some popular varieties offered at Ed’s Produce: 

Iceberg

Iceberg lettuce, also known as crisphead lettuce, is one of the most popular picks of lettuce varieties. The leaves are pale green and have a high water content. They are crisp to taste with a mildly-sweet flavor. Iceberg is typically used in chopped and wedge salads, as well as on burgers and tacos. This variety of lettuce is referred to as “iceberg” due to it being transported on large amounts of crushed ice.   

Romaine

Romaine lettuce is another extremely popular variety that has vibrant green leaves with a crunchy center. The leaves are packed with nutrients and have a slightly bitter flavor. Romaine is commonly used in caesar salads, wraps, sandwiches, grilled dishes, and boats to hold fillings. Romaine is sometimes referred to as Cos lettuce.

Romaine Hearts

Romaine Hearts are just as popular as Romaine lettuce, but are more tender and lighter in color. They are the inner part of the romaine head and are mildly bitter with  a slightly sweet taste. Just like whole Romaine, hearts are perfect for caesar and other salads as well as garnishes. 

Spring Mix

Spring Mix is a combination of greens, usually consisting of arugula, baby spinach, and baby lettuces. This variety is often used in bowls that include proteins and in light salads. Dressings like vinaigrettes are typically paired with spring mix. 

Hydro Lettuce

Hydro Lettuce is considered a Butterhead lettuce variety and has a tender, sweet taste and low water content. Boston lettuce is related to Bibb lettuce, which is often confused as the same type. Boston lettuce is usually used on burgers and makes excellent beds for meats or other proteins. Since the root is usually intact, it will stay fresh longer in the fridge. 

Green Leaf Lettuce

Green Leaf lettuce consists of ruffled leaves that have a crisp texture and almost grassy taste. Green leaf may wilt easily, but it is versatile and is commonly used as salad bases, wraps, and even soups! 

Red Leaf

Red Leaf lettuce is similar in taste and texture to Green Leaf, except the leaves often have dark red to burgundy ends. Some consider it to have a slightly nuttier flavor in comparison to Green Leaf, and goes well with dressings. It is often used like a garnish in sandwiches and wraps, and adds a nice color to salads. 

Spinach

Spinach is a leafy green that is tender and slightly bitter. It is packed with nutrients and extremely versatile. Spinach can be used in salads, soups, pasta, but also in smoothies, sautés, and egg dishes. It is eaten both raw and cooked, but when cooked, the leaves become significantly more tender than when eaten raw. 

Baby Spinach

Baby Spinach is harvested when it is young, creating a sweet, tender flavor. Since it is also packed with nutrients with a similar flavor profile, it is just as suitable to be used in salads, meal preps, smoothies, and more!

Artisan

Artisan Lettuce is a blend of smaller lettuces like butter or petite romaine with leaf lettuces sometimes being included. These blends are typically used in salads or in plating and garnishing dishes. The greens in Artisan lettuce are usually tender and range from milt to bitter flavors. 

Baby Iceberg

Baby Iceberg lettuce had the same texture and flavor profile as traditional Iceberg lettuce. Because of its size, it is commonly used in appetizers and wedge salads, making it perfect for use in fine dining.  

Gem Lettuce

Gem Lettuce, also known as Little Gem, is a hybrid variety between romaine and butterhead lettuce. The heads of Gem lettuce are small and have a slightly sweet taste, making them great for grilling and salads in both hot and cold dishes.