Leafy Green Vegetable | Vegan Gluten Free Low Calorie Keto Paleo

Iceberg Lettuce

Lactuca sativa var. capitata Allergen-Free
Iceberg Lettuce

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Asteraceae
  • Primary Cuisine Western
  • Seasonality Year-Round (peak spring/summer)
  • Source Lettuce plant

The Forktionary Angle

"The undisputed champion of crunch, bringing refreshing texture and a subtle flavor canvas to your plate."

Definition

A crisp, mild-flavored leafy green vegetable known for its pale green color, firm texture, and high water content.

Sensory Profile

TasteMild,Slightly sweet,Neutral,Refreshing
TextureVery crispy,Crunchy,Hydrated
AromaFresh,Grassy,Watery
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Common Serving Style

Wedge Salad

Shelf Life (Refrigerated)

1-2 weeks (whole head)

Water Content

Over 95%

Nutrition Facts

Per 80g (1.5 cups shredded)
Calories14 kcal
Total Fat0.1 g
Saturated Fat0 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein0.9 g
Total Carbohydrate3 g
Dietary Fiber1.2 g
Total Sugars2 g
Calcium18 mg
Iron0.4 mg
Potassium141 mg

Chef’s Secret

To maintain iceberg lettuce's crispness, store it whole and wash/chop just before serving. A quick soak in ice water can revive limp leaves.

Substitutions

Best Match

Romaine Lettuce

1:1

Good crunch and similar mild flavor, but slightly more nutrients and a bolder leaf structure.

Green Leaf Lettuce

1:1

Softer texture, but still relatively mild in flavor, works well in salads and sandwiches.

Cabbage (shredded)

1:1

Offers a similar crunch and durability, but has a stronger, more peppery flavor. Excellent for slaw.

Butter Lettuce

1:1

Much softer texture and milder, buttery flavor. Not suitable when a strong crunch is desired.

Buying Guide

Choose firm heads that are pale green, free from brown spots, and feel heavy for their size. Store in the crisper drawer.

Flavor Pairings

Salad dressings Burgers Tacos Sandwiches Wraps Ranch dressing Grilled chicken Tomatoes.

Recipes Using Iceberg Lettuce

Seasonal Main Ingredient Summer Potluck

A Different Layered Salad

Reimagine the classic layered salad! This vibrant and flavorful recipe puts a fun, modern spin on a childhood favorite. Forget the usual peas and bacon – this version features juicy chicken, crisp veggies, and a creamy, dreamy dressing. Perfect for potlucks, parties, or a light yet satisfying weeknight meal. Get ready to impress!

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Vegetables North American Low In Something Preparation

Amy's Dill Pickle And Lettuce Hamburger Slaw

This unique and surprisingly delicious slaw recipe flips the script! Forget cabbage – this vibrant salad features crunchy lettuce, tangy dill pickles, and juicy hamburger, all tossed in a creamy mayonnaise dressing. Perfect for backyard barbecues, potlucks, or a fun weeknight meal. Inspired by a family cookout, this recipe is easy to customize to your liking – adjust the mayo for your desired consistency. Get ready for a flavor explosion that's both refreshing and satisfying!

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Beginner Cook Dietary Picnic Cuisine

Antonella's Hoagie Dip

This Antonella's Hoagie Dip recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! Inspired by a coworker's hit recipe, this creamy, flavorful dip features savory salami, ham, provolone, and fresh veggies, all tossed in a zesty Italian dressing and mayo base. Serve with crusty bread cubes for the ultimate party snack or game-day appetizer. Prepare to be amazed!

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Taste Mood Asian Seasonal Summer

Asian Chicken Or Turkey Crispy Lettuce Wraps

Craving a vibrant and flavorful meal? These Asian Chicken or Turkey Crispy Lettuce Wraps are bursting with deliciousness! Juicy ground chicken or turkey, mixed with savory teriyaki, peanut butter, and a hint of spice, is perfectly nestled in crisp lettuce cups. A quick and easy weeknight dinner, these wraps are also incredibly adaptable – leftover rice can be added to the filling for extra heartiness. Get ready for a flavor explosion that's both satisfying and refreshing!

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Meat European Cuisine Low Sodium

Authentic Pork Souvlaki

Unlock the secrets to authentic Greek pork souvlaki! This recipe delivers the closest you'll get to a taste of Greece, using a marinade that will have your family begging for more. Tender, juicy pork skewers grilled to perfection – it's unbelievably delicious. Even better? This recipe also works beautifully with chicken, and you can enjoy it in under 3 hours if you're short on time! Get ready for a flavor explosion.

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Healthy 2 Fruit Low Calorie Preparation

Avocado And Pineapple Salad Ensalada De Aguacate Y Pina

Escape to the vibrant flavors of Cuba with this refreshing Avocado and Pineapple Salad! This Miami-inspired recipe from three culinary maestros delivers a delightful blend of sweet pineapple, creamy avocado, and a tangy, zesty dressing. The secret? High-quality extra virgin olive oil and a touch of salt and pepper to elevate the dressing. Prepare to be amazed by the perfect balance of sweet, sour, and savory in every bite!

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Course Time To Make Main Ingredient Seafood

Avocado Stuffed With Crab

Indulge in this delightful Avocado Stuffed with Crab recipe, a treasured gem from our local KCTS cookbook, "Favorite Recipes." Submitted by a Kirkland, Washington viewer, this quick and easy recipe features creamy avocado perfectly complemented by succulent crab meat. A perfect appetizer or light lunch, ready in just 15 minutes!

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Occasion Seasonal Preparation Easy

B B L T Sandwiches

Juicy summer tomatoes, crispy bacon, crisp lettuce, and fragrant basil unite in this elevated classic BLT! This recipe makes the perfect summertime sandwich, bursting with fresh flavor and ready in under 20 minutes. Get ready to savor the taste of summer!

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Dietary Easy Salads Low Carb

B L T Lettuce Salad

This B L T Lettuce Salad isn't your average salad! A vibrant blend of crisp bacon, juicy tomatoes, and fresh lettuce gets a serious flavor upgrade with a powerful garlic dressing. The bold garlic flavor shines through, making this a truly unforgettable salad perfect for a light lunch or a satisfying side dish. Get ready for a taste explosion!

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Dietary To Go Greens Dietary

Bacon Lettuce Tomato Layered Salad

This easy Bacon Lettuce Tomato Layered Salad is perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a light dinner! Crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and savory bacon are layered to perfection in a creamy basil dressing, then chilled for maximum flavor. No-fuss assembly and minimal cleanup make this recipe a crowd-pleaser. Get ready for rave reviews!

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Pork Preparation Easy Course

Bacon Swiss Lettuce Salad

This irresistible Bacon Swiss Lettuce Salad is perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a satisfying weeknight meal! Crispy bacon, creamy Swiss cheese, and a tangy dressing combine to create a flavor explosion that even the most dedicated salad-skeptic will love. Guys, this one's for you! Don't let the 'salad' label fool you – this dish is packed with satisfying flavor and texture. Prep time excludes bacon cooking.

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To Go Salads Mexican Picnic

Bean And Chicken Taco Salad

Craving a vibrant and refreshing meal? This zesty Bean and Chicken Taco Salad is perfect for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner! Made with juicy chicken, crunchy tortilla chips, creamy avocado, and zesty taco seasoning, this cold taco salad is best enjoyed fresh. Get ready for a flavor explosion in every bite!

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Beef Main Ingredient Number Of Servings 15 Minutes Or Less

Beef Cheese And Carrot Sandwich

A quick and easy recipe for a delicious Beef, Cheese & Carrot Sandwich inspired by the Australian Women's Weekly! This satisfying sandwich is perfect for a light lunch or a tasty snack. Featuring tender roast beef, creamy cheese, crunchy carrots, and crisp lettuce, it's a flavor explosion in every bite!

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