Forktionary

Romaine Leave

Lactuca sativa L. var. longifolia Vegetable/Leafy Green

Romaine Leave Vegetable/Leafy Green

At a Glance

  • Category Vegetable/Leafy Green

The Forktionary Angle

"The unsung hero of crispness and the backbone of iconic salads."

Definition

A crisp, elongated lettuce with sturdy, dark green leaves and a refreshing, slightly bitter flavor, popular in Caesar salads.

Culinary Staple Essential for Caesar salads
Optimal Storage Refrigerate 7-10 days, loosely wrapped
Water Content ~95% water by weight, excellent hydration

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Romaine Leave are:

Crisp Refreshing Slightly Bitter Mild

Chef’s Secret

Grill or char romaine halves lightly for a smoky twist in salads or as a warm side dish, complementing rich dressings beautifully.

Best Substitutes

Butter Lettuce

softer
Ratio 1:1

Iceberg Lettuce

crisp but less flavor
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Look for firm, vibrant green leaves with no wilting or brown spots.

Culinary Pairings

Caesar dressing Grilled Chicken Parmesan Croutons Bacon Lemon

Recipes Using Romaine Leave

Easy Orange And Avocado Ensalada image 125
15 Minutes Or Less Preparation Easy For 1 Or 2

Easy Orange And Avocado Ensalada

A vibrant and refreshing Orange & Avocado salad perfect alongside your favorite Mexican dishes! This quick and easy recipe combines creamy avocado, juicy orange segments, crisp romaine lettuce, and a zesty dressing, topped with nutty pine nuts and salty Asiago cheese. Ready in just 10 minutes!

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Antipasto Wraps With Roasted Red Peppers image
Cheese Main Ingredient Cheese Preparation

Antipasto Wraps With Roasted Red Peppers

Quick & Easy Antipasto Wraps! These vibrant wraps are perfect for a light lunch, a satisfying snack, or a party appetizer. Roasted red peppers, savory ham, and creamy cheese combine for a flavor explosion in every bite! Ready in under 15 minutes.

See Complete Recipe