Red Leaf Lettuce

Lactuca sativa Vegetable, Leafy Green

Red Leaf Lettuce Vegetable, Leafy Green

At a Glance

  • Category Vegetable, Leafy Green

The Forktionary Angle

"The Colorful Salad Staple"

Definition

A loose-leaf lettuce variety characterized by its crinkly, deep reddish-bronze to burgundy leaves, offering a mild, slightly bitter flavor and tender texture.

Color Compound Anthocyanins (responsible for red/purple hue)
Nutrient Content Rich in Vitamin K and Vitamin A
Optimal Storage Refrigerate in a damp cloth or sealed bag for freshness

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Red Leaf Lettuce are:

Mild Slightly Bitter Fresh Earthy

Chef’s Secret

To revitalize slightly wilted red leaf lettuce, submerge it in a bowl of ice water for 15-20 minutes before using; it will crisp right up.

Best Substitutes

Green Leaf Lettuce

Ratio 1:1

Romaine Lettuce

slightly crispier
Ratio 1:1

Butter Lettuce

softer texture
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Look for vibrant, crisp leaves without wilting or brown spots. Wash thoroughly before use.

Recipes Using Red Leaf Lettuce

Low In Something Low In Something 30 Minutes Or Less Low Cholesterol

Albanian Tossed Salad

Experience the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with this Albanian Tossed Salad! A popular Albanian twist on a Greek classic, this refreshing salad combines crisp romaine and red leaf lettuce with creamy feta, briny olives, juicy tomatoes, and earthy mushrooms. Quick, easy, and bursting with flavor, it's the perfect side dish or light meal. Get ready to be amazed!

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Easy Time To Make Occasion Spring

Anthony's House Salad With Italian Dressing

A light and flavorful salad inspired by a favorite local restaurant! This recipe features a vibrant mix of crisp lettuce, shredded carrots, and cabbage, tossed in a homemade Italian dressing. Perfect as a side dish or a satisfying light lunch – simply add diced smoked turkey breast for extra protein! Get ready to experience the freshness and deliciousness of this easy-to-make salad.

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Preparation Greens Salads Vegetables

Apple Feta Salad

Sweet and savory collide in this irresistible Apple Feta Salad! Crisp apples, salty feta, crunchy candied pecans, and a tangy dressing create a symphony of flavors. Easy to make and perfect for a light lunch, side dish, or a delightful appetizer. This recipe is guaranteed to become a new favorite!

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Main Ingredient Main Dish 30 Minutes Or Less Seafood

Artichoke Avocado Shrimp Salad

This vibrant Artichoke Avocado Shrimp Salad is the perfect summer dish! Succulent shrimp, creamy avocado, and tangy artichoke hearts create a symphony of flavors in every bite. Light, refreshing, and incredibly easy to make, this salad is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a sophisticated summer gathering. Serve it with your favorite bread for a complete and satisfying experience.

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Brunch Low In Something Vegetables Appetizers

Antipasto Of Asparagus With Freshly Grated Parmigiano Cheese

A taste of Turin! This elegant antipasto, inspired by Ristorante San Giorgio's recipe and passed down through generations, features crisp-tender asparagus spears artfully arranged with juicy tomatoes and a generous showering of freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano. A simple yet sophisticated appetizer perfect for any occasion.

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Course Number Of Servings To Go Easy

Best Ever Egg Salad Sandwiches

Elevate your lunch game with this gourmet egg salad sandwich recipe! Crispy bacon, briny olives, and tangy Dijon mustard transform ordinary egg salad into an unforgettable culinary experience. Ready in under 30 minutes!

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Fall Fall Low Sodium Seasonal

Autumn Apple Salad With Pomegranate

A vibrant and refreshing Autumn Apple Salad bursting with the flavors of crisp apples, juicy pomegranate seeds, and tangy goat cheese! This vegetarian recipe is quick and easy to make, perfect for a light lunch, a festive side dish, or a delightful autumnal dinner. The sweet and savory dressing complements the seasonal ingredients beautifully.

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Vegetarian Citrus Salads Preparation

Avocado Orange Salad

A vibrant and refreshing Avocado Orange Salad recipe! This zesty salad is quick to prepare (only 15 minutes!), perfect for a light lunch or a healthy side dish. Inspired by Everyday Food issue 9, this recipe combines creamy avocado, juicy oranges, and a tangy vinaigrette for a flavor explosion. Get ready to impress with this easy and delicious salad!

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Low Calorie Time To Make 30 Minutes Or Less Low In Something

Best Of Summer Salad

Capture the taste of summer with this incredible salad, adapted from a classic Good Food Magazine recipe (August 1987)! Sweet summer vegetables mingle with a vibrant basil-garlic dressing for a refreshing and unforgettable dish. (Note: Marinating time adds an additional hour.)

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Lunch Time To Make Cuisine American

Turkey Croissants With Cranberry Salsa

Elevate your leftover Thanksgiving turkey into a quick and delicious gourmet lunch or light dinner! These Turkey Croissant Cranberry Salsa Sandwiches are a flavor explosion, combining savory turkey breast with a sweet and tart cranberry salsa. Perfect for using up leftover holiday turkey and cranberry sauce, this recipe is surprisingly easy and ready in minutes. A delightful twist on a classic!

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Citrus Citrus Fruit Oranges

Almond Mandarin Salad

A vibrant and refreshing Almond Mandarin Salad, perfect for warm weather gatherings! This recipe features sweet mandarin oranges, crunchy almonds, crispy bacon, and a zesty honey-mustard dressing. Easy to make and bursting with flavor, it's a crowd-pleasing side dish or light lunch that's sure to impress.

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