When it comes to versatility as a leafy green, romaine is king! Romaine lettuce is a type of lettuce with a tall, dark green leaves with a firm central rib. The inner leaves are light green and crunchy, known as the romaine heart. Romaine has a mild, sweet flavor and a hydrating crunch. Best known for the classic Caesar salad, romaine is ideal in salads but also works grilled. Here’s a bit more about this crunchy salad green and our top ways to use it in recipes.
Buying and storing romaine lettuce
What to look for when you’re buying romaine lettuce at the store? Here’s what to know:
Look for lettuce with a tight head and firm, shiny leaves. Avoid limp or dull lettuce with discolored or yellowed parts. Thoroughly wash romaine lettuce before refrigerating. Remove any loose outer leaves. Wrap it loosely in a damp cloth or place it in an airtight container. Romaine lasts for 5 to 7 days refrigerated. Or, wash and dry and store in a salad spinner in the fridge. A salad spinner makes quick work of drying the greens! You can leave whole or chopped leaves right in the spinner and place it in the refrigerator.
Romaine lettuce nutrition
Is romaine lettuce good for you? Yes! Romaine lettuce is very low calorie food that’s packed with vitamins and nutrients. Here’s an outline of romaine lettuce nutrition:
Very low in calories. One cup of chopped romaine has only 8 calories (source). Romaine has no fat, cholesterol or sodium. However your salad dressing might, so keep that in mind when preparing this vegetable. Good source of Vitamin A, Vitamin K, and folate. (source)
Romaine lettuce recipes
Romaine lettuce is most often eaten raw, but it can also be cooked! Use it in salads, in sandwiches or as a garnish for tacos. It’s also fantastic grilled! Here are a few recipe ideas: Want to know more about romaine? Here are a few more frequently asked questions:
What’s a romaine substitute? Try a butter lettuce like Bibb lettuce or Boston lettuce. It’s not as crunchy but the flavor is sweet and mild. Is it safe to eat romaine? Yes, the FDA says E. coli outbreak associated with romaine lettuce is over.
What else do you want to know? Let us know in the comments below: and let us know if you try any of these romaine recipes! More quick guides? Try Quick Guide to Endive, Quick Guide to Butter Lettuce and Quick Guide to Frisee. 5 from 1 review
