Leafy Green Vegetable | Vegan Vegetarian Gluten Free Low Calorie Low Carb

Lettuce

Lactuca sativa Allergen-Free
lettuce

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Asteraceae
  • Primary Cuisine Global
  • Seasonality Spring|Summer|Fall
  • Source Lettuce plant

The Forktionary Angle

"Beyond the Salad Bowl: Unexpected uses for your leafy greens."

Definition

A leafy green vegetable primarily used in salads, sandwiches, and as a garnish, valued for its crisp texture and mild flavor.

Sensory Profile

TasteMild, Fresh, Slightly Bitter (some varieties)
TextureCrisp, Watery, Tender
AromaFresh, Green
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Global Production:

China is the largest producer of lettuce worldwide.

Vitamin K Source:

A single serving can provide over 100% daily Vitamin K.

Water Content:

Over 95% water, making it very hydrating.

Nutrition Facts

Per 1 cup shredded (36g)
Calories15 kcal
Total Fat0.2 g
Saturated Fat0 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein1.4 g
Total Carbohydrate2.9 g
Dietary Fiber1.3 g
Total Sugars0.8 g
Calcium36 mg
Iron0.9 mg
Potassium194 mg

Chef’s Secret

To revive wilted lettuce, submerge it in ice water for 15-30 minutes; the cells will rehydrate, restoring crispness.

Substitutions

Best Match

Spinach

1:1

Excellent for salads and sandwiches, offers similar texture but slightly earthier taste.

Cabbage (shredded)

1:1

Crisp texture, more robust flavor, good for slaws and heartier sandwiches.

Arugula

1:1

Adds a peppery, slightly bitter kick, suitable for salads desiring more intense flavor.

Endive/Radicchio

1:1

Provides a pleasant bitterness and crispness, good for salads needing complexity.

Buying Guide

Choose heads with crisp, vibrant leaves, avoiding any wilting, browning, or sliminess.

Flavor Pairings

Vinaigrettes Tomatoes Cucumbers Onions Grilled Chicken Fish Cheese

Recipes Using Lettuce

North American Potluck Cuisine Poultry

15 Minute No Fry Chicken Enchiladas Honest

Craving enchiladas but short on time? This recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor in just 45 minutes, with NO FRYING! Say goodbye to greasy pans and hello to juicy chicken and cheesy goodness. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a satisfying weekend lunch.

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60 Minutes Or Less Time To Make Course Cheese

A Doozie Of A Floozie Burger

Get ready to unleash your inner floozie with this ridiculously delicious Southern-style open-faced burger! This recipe is a tastebud tantalizer, promising a flavor explosion you won't soon forget. Juicy patty, decadent toppings, and a hint of sassy Southern charm – this isn't your grandma's burger. Feel free to add a top bun if you're feeling shy, but we bet you'll go wild for this open-faced delight! #SouthernBurger #OpenFacedBurger #Foodie #BurgerRecipe #EasyRecipe #Delicious

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Lunch Number Of Servings Low Calorie Appetizers

A Salad For All Seasons

This vibrant salad is a delightful combination of simple, flavorful ingredients that's perfect any time of year! Impress your guests (or your picky husband!) with this surprisingly satisfying starter or light lunch. Featuring intensely flavorful roasted red onions, perfectly boiled eggs, and a few other key components, this recipe is as easy as it is delicious. Roast the onions and boil the eggs ahead of time for effortless assembly – making it ideal for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend brunches. Pair it with crusty bread for a complete and fulfilling meal.

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Meat Served Hot Main Dish Course

All American Loaded Burgers

Fire up the grill for these juicy, All-American Loaded Burgers! Perfect for summer BBQs, picnics, or a casual weeknight dinner, this recipe is easily doubled or halved to fit your needs. Get ready for a flavor explosion with customizable toppings – the possibilities are endless! Simple, delicious, and guaranteed to impress.

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Midwestern Dinner Party Vegetarian Onions

Appel Salade Apple Salad

A vintage apple salad recipe, straight from the 1947 Michigan Dutch chapter of the United States Regional Cookbook (Culinary Arts Institute of Chicago)! This isn't your grandma's applesauce; it's a vibrant, tangy, and surprisingly sophisticated salad perfect for a light lunch, side dish, or potluck contribution. Experience a taste of history with this unique and delicious recipe.

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Time To Make Beginner Cook 15 Minutes Or Less Potluck

Apple Cashew Salad

This vibrant Apple Cashew Salad is quick, simple, and ridiculously easy to make! Ready in just 15 minutes, it's the perfect potluck or cookout dish that always disappears first. The sweet apples, crunchy cashews, and creamy dressing create an irresistible flavor combination that everyone will love. We recommend tossing everything together right before serving to keep the lettuce crisp and the salad fresh.

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Low In Something Preparation 30 Minutes Or Less 3 Steps Or Less

Apple Broccoli Salad

Craving a healthy and delicious salad? This Apple Broccoli Salad is a game-changer! Forget heavy mayo-based dressings – this recipe uses creamy yogurt for a lighter, tangier twist. With quick prep (thanks to your food chopper!), this vibrant salad is perfect for a light lunch, a healthy side dish, or a refreshing summer meal. Get ready for a burst of fresh apple and crunchy broccoli goodness!

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Lunch Presentation Meat Easy

Apple Wrap Sandwich

A quick and easy recipe for a delicious Apple Wrap Sandwich! Sweet apples, savory ham and cheese, all wrapped up in a convenient tortilla. Perfect for a light lunch, quick snack, or even a fun appetizer. Get ready to impress your tastebuds with this simple yet satisfying recipe from recipesource.com!

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Beef Course South West Pacific Beef

Aussie Burgers

Forget everything you think you know about burgers! This recipe puts an Aussie twist on a classic, creating a hearty and flavour-packed hamburger experience. Juicy patties, fresh toppings, and a delicious kaiser roll combine for a truly unforgettable bite. Perfect for a casual weeknight dinner or a weekend BBQ!

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Salad Dressings Mexican Preparation Presentation

Avocado Salad With Hearts Of Palm

Discover a vibrant and refreshing Avocado & Hearts of Palm Salad! This easy recipe, inspired by Veggie Ventures, is perfect for a light lunch or a healthy side dish. Hearts of palm add a delightful crunch and subtle sweetness, perfectly complemented by creamy avocado and a zesty, homemade dressing. Makes enough for 4 servings. Prepare to be amazed!

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Equipment Occasion Time To Make 30 Minutes Or Less

B L T Stuffed Tomatoes

These BLT Stuffed Tomatoes are the perfect recipe for a summer bounty of garden tomatoes! Juicy tomatoes are filled with a savory mixture of crispy bacon, shredded lettuce, cheddar cheese, and a tangy mayo-vinegar dressing. This easy 30-minute recipe is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for a light lunch, appetizer, or side dish. Get ready to savor the taste of summer!

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Vegetarian Beans Time To Make Vegan

Baked Chick Pea Pattys

These incredibly delicious baked chickpea patties are a game-changer! Even picky eaters will adore these crispy, flavorful patties, perfect served on buns with your favorite toppings or enjoyed as a standalone dish with a refreshing cucumber-soy yogurt dip. Made with simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, this recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a satisfying weekend lunch. Get ready to experience a burst of plant-based goodness that will leave you wanting more! #veganrecipes #chickpeapatties #plantbased #easyrecipe #veganfood #healthyfood #vegetarian

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Low Fat Dietary Vegetarian 60 Minutes Or Less

Baked Falafel Sandwich

Skip the deep fryer and enjoy these healthy, baked falafel sandwiches! This Weight Watchers-inspired recipe delivers amazing flavor without the guilt. Perfectly seasoned chickpea patties are baked to golden perfection, then nestled in pita bread with fresh veggies and a creamy tahini dressing. A quick, easy, and healthier twist on a classic!

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Dietary Number Of Servings For 1 Or 2 Kid Friendly

Barbie's Blt A

A playful twist on a classic BLT, this recipe pays homage to feminist icons with a delicious and easy-to-make sandwich. Inspired by a cafe creation, this Barbie-themed BLT features perfectly toasted bread, crispy bacon, creamy avocado, juicy tomatoes, and crisp lettuce. Perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner!

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American Main Dish 60 Minutes Or Less Beans

Bean And Cheese Enchiladas

Craving delicious, cheesy enchiladas without the fuss? This recipe delivers! Quick, easy, and customizable (use one or two cans of beans!), these enchiladas are perfect for a weeknight meal. Get ready for a flavor explosion in under an hour!

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North American Ground Beef 60 Minutes Or Less Mexican

Beef Nacho Casserole

Craving a quick and easy dinner that's bursting with flavor? This Beef Nacho Casserole is your answer! The perfectly seasoned ground beef, creamy Miracle Whip, and spicy salsa create a smooth and savory base, while crunchy tortilla chips add the perfect textural contrast. Customize the spice level with your favorite amount of chili powder – it's that easy! Get ready for a cheesy, satisfying meal the whole family will love. #beefnachocasserole #nachocasserole #easyrecipe #quickdinner #comfortfood #cheesypull

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White Rice Beef Main Dish Course

Beef Taco Rice Skillet

One-pan wonder! This Beef Taco Rice Skillet is a quick, easy, and flavorful weeknight meal ready in under 20 minutes. Juicy beef, seasoned rice, and your favorite taco toppings come together in a sizzling skillet for a satisfying dinner that's perfect for busy families. Leftovers are amazing repurposed as quick lunches in flour tortillas!

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Preparation Time To Make 60 Minutes Or Less Meat

My Famous Enchiladas

A beloved family recipe, perfected over generations! These enchiladas start with a simple base, but the layers of flavor—from savory beef and beans to spicy peppers and melted cheese—will leave you craving more. This easy-to-follow recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Get ready to experience enchiladas elevated!

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