Forktionary

Boston Lettuce

Lactuca sativa var. capitata Vegetable

Boston Lettuce Vegetable

At a Glance

  • Category Vegetable

The Forktionary Angle

"The ideal delicate leaf for elegant salads or as a soft, edible cup for light fillings, providing a tender counterpoint to crisp ingredients."

Definition

A butterhead lettuce variety known for its soft, tender, buttery leaves and loose head, offering a mild flavor and delicate texture.

Optimal Storage Temperature 32-35°F (0-2°C)
Shelf Life (refrigerated) 5-7 days
Water Content 95%

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Boston Lettuce are:

Mild slightly sweet buttery fresh

Chef’s Secret

To perfectly cup Boston lettuce leaves for serving, cut out the core, then gently run warm water into the core space to loosen the leaves without tearing.

Best Substitutes

Butter Lettuce

Ratio 1:1

Green Leaf Lettuce

slightly firmer
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Choose heads with fresh, vibrant green leaves and no brown spots or wilting.

Culinary Pairings

Light vinaigrettes goat cheese berries grilled chicken salmon avocado

Recipes Using Boston Lettuce

Apple Beet And Walnut Salad image
Main Ingredient Occasion North American Brunch

Apple Beet And Walnut Salad

This vibrant fall salad is a delightful and simple starter perfect for Thanksgiving or any special occasion. Sweet apples, earthy beets, and crunchy walnuts are tossed in a tangy apple cider vinaigrette for a light yet satisfying dish that will impress your guests. Easy to make and bursting with autumnal flavors!

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Avocado Lime Salad image 132
Preparation Salad Dressings Low Sodium European

Avocado Lime Salad

This vibrant and refreshing Avocado Lime Salad is a fiesta for your taste buds! A vegan twist on a classic Spanish and Mexican recipe (adapted from Vegetarian Times Magazine), this salad bursts with the creamy goodness of avocado, juicy tomatoes, and zesty lime. Easy to make in just 15 minutes, it's perfect for a light lunch, a vibrant side dish, or a healthy appetizer. Get ready to experience a taste of sunshine!

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All American Cowboy Salad image
Preparation Cheese Meat Ham

All American Cowboy Salad

Saddle up for a flavor-packed All-American Cowboy Salad! This easy no-cook recipe is ready in minutes and perfect for a light yet satisfying dinner. The hearty mix of beans, corn, and veggies is tossed in a zesty vinaigrette, making it a crowd-pleaser for BBQs, potlucks, or a quick weeknight meal. Serve with crusty bread for dipping into the delicious dressing!

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Bean And Mozzarella Salad image
15 Minutes Or Less Cheese Course Time To Make

Bean And Mozzarella Salad

This vibrant and flavorful Bean and Mozzarella Salad is a quick and easy recipe perfect for a light lunch, side dish, or potluck contribution. Featuring creamy mozzarella, tender beans, and a zesty homemade vinaigrette, this salad is bursting with fresh Mediterranean flavors. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this delicious and surprisingly simple recipe!

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B L T Salad image
North American Bacon Salads Meat

B L T Salad

This gourmet BLT Salad recipe elevates the classic sandwich to a vibrant, flavorful salad perfect for a light lunch or dinner. Crispy bacon croutons add a delightful crunch, while a zesty lemon-garlic dressing brings everything together. Get ready for a taste explosion!

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B L T Tossed Salad image
Healthy 2 Midwestern Time To Make North American

B L T Tossed Salad

This vibrant B L T Tossed Salad is a spring and summer sensation! Crisp Boston lettuce forms the base, topped with homemade bacon croutons for irresistible crunch. The creamy, tangy dressing perfectly complements the juicy tomatoes and savory bacon. Easy to make and bursting with fresh flavor, this salad is a crowd-pleaser!

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Apple Cranberry Salad With Creamy Lemon Vinaigrette image
Low Cholesterol Low Calorie Lettuces No Cook

Apple Cranberry Salad With Creamy Lemon Vinaigrette

This vibrant and festive Apple Cranberry Salad, inspired by Cook's Illustrated, is a showstopper for any holiday gathering or weeknight dinner. Sweet and tart apples dance with juicy cranberries and crunchy walnuts in a creamy, zesty lemon vinaigrette. Looking for a substitution? Raisins work perfectly in place of cranberries! Prepare this stunning salad in just 15 minutes.

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Avocado Salad With Bleu Cheese Bacon image 112
Low Sodium Technique Dietary Low Protein

Avocado Salad With Bleu Cheese Bacon

Indulge in this creamy and satisfying avocado salad! Perfectly ripe avocados are tossed with crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, crumbled bleu cheese, and smoky bacon bits. A simple yet vibrant dressing ties it all together for a delicious and healthy meal or side dish. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or a party appetizer!

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