Loose leaf lettuce is a versatile and easy-to-grow variety that does not form a compact head. It can be used in a variety of recipes and is available in many markets. When buying, look for solid leaves and no discoloration. It can be grown at home and should be kept in a plastic bag to last longer. It is often used in sandwiches and salads and can be harvested as desired.
Loose leaf lettuce is a variety of lettuce that does not form a compact head. There are a number of different types of loose leaf lettuce, the most common being the basic red and green. This lettuce variety is very easy to grow and can be used flexibly in a wide variety of recipes, making it a popular choice for the garden and market. Most markets and greengrocers carry several types of this lettuce, and it is also possible to grow it at home.
The leaves on a head of loose leaf lettuce arrange around a central stalk. They tend to be slightly curly, with constant central ribs. In slightly older lettuce, the leaves tend to spread out, while younger lettuces may be straighter. The flavor is mild and sometimes a little sweet, with a hint of butter; red lettuce can also be a little spicy.
In the market, buyers should look for heads with solid leaves and no signs of discoloration, slime or spotting. When bringing lettuce home, cooks should keep it in a plastic bag and wrap it around the base of the lettuce so it lasts longer. Before using it, cooks should always wash the lettuce and check for bugs and slugs that may have made it to market with the lettuce.
Sandwiches often include loose leaf lettuce and can also be used in salads or as a side dish. It tends to be relatively sturdy and hardy, which can be convenient for a small family that doesn’t pass a lot of lettuce. To use up a whole head, cooks can twist the base of the lettuce and dump the leaves into a colander or juicer to wash and dry. It’s best to avoid placing washed lettuce back in the refrigerator, as it can spot, wilt, or develop slimy spots.
People who want to grow loose leaf lettuce can plant seeds in a well-composted bed or box after the last chance of frost. They should keep the soil moist, but not soggy, and harvest the lettuce as desired. Many people like to stagger their lettuce plantings so they have a constant supply of lettuce, and growers can even mix lettuce varieties for more variation so they don’t get tired of eating the same kind. If lettuce is left in the ground too long, it will go to seed, in which case the leaves will be bitter and papery.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
