What are The Different Types of Lettuce?
Lettuce is a leafy plant that we normally eat in salads. However, it does need a certain temperature range to grow. Thus we have greenhouses to thank for this food. You may not know this, but there are many different types of lettuce.
This plant is low in calories and has high water content. Not to mention that it is also rich in antioxidants, fiber, minerals, and vitamins such as B1, B2, B6, A, C, and E. Additionally it’s a dense source of folic acid and minerals such as potassium and iron.
Among its main characteristics are its diuretic powers and its ability to aid digestion. It’s commonly known as a sleeping agent since it’s a natural relaxant.
Types of lettuce
Escarole
This type of lettuce has two varieties, with smooth and rough leaves. Its taste is somewhat bitter and has a dark yellow coloring. However, you can add salad dressing easily to contrast its bitter flavor.
Iceberg
It’s similar to kale, with big round leaves that are crunchy. It’s named “iceberg” because it can withstand low temperatures. Additionally, it has a smooth flavor. Thus, you can use it in salads and tacos alike. However, it’s one of the least nutritive types of lettuce.
Endive
This type of lettuce has a tough, crunchy, white leaf, however, it’s taste is what sets it apart. It’s sweet with a bitter aftertaste. The leaf is mostly white with light green toward the ends. You can find it all-year-round but most commonly between the fall and summer.
French lettuce
This type of lettuce has fine, green, and long leaves. The taste is somewhat sweet and soft and it works well if you add a light dressing to it. The best season to get this lettuce is the spring.
Romaine lettuce
This one has robust, long leaves that don’t meet at the heart and its taste is slightly bitter. Of all the types of lettuce, this is one of the few that handles high and low temperatures well, and so we can find it year-round.
Arugula
This one is often used as an aromatic herb more than a type of lettuce. However, it’s also used in certain salads for its peculiar taste. Additionally, it originates in the Mediterranean and has a strong taste with a somewhat spicy aftertaste.
Canon
It has a smooth and pleasant taste that goes great in salads with fruits. It’s light green and its leaf is small in comparison to the other types of lettuce. It can be used raw or cooked and the best time to find it is in the fall or spring.
Red Coral
This type of lettuce has an intense red color and rough leaves. It originally comes from Italy and has a bitter taste that makes it ideal for cold salads. You can find it most commonly in the months following summer.
Tatsoi
This type of lettuce comes from Asia and has very small leaves that are round and have long stems. They are dark green with the stems contrasting as light green and sometimes red. It has a creamy, smooth texture, with an intense flavor that you can appreciate raw or cooked.
Finally, we hope you have enjoyed this concise summary of the types of lettuce available. Each one has a specific taste and is ideal for certain dishes. As such, take advantage of their delicious flavors and nutritive natures.
