Romaine Lettuce

Lactuca sativa var. longifolia Vegetable (Leafy Green)

Romaine Lettuce Vegetable (Leafy Green)

At a Glance

  • Category Vegetable (Leafy Green)

The Forktionary Angle

"Mastering fresh produce selection and maximizing crispness."

Definition

A crisp, elongated variety of lettuce known for its sturdy leaves and slightly bitter, yet sweet, flavor. Ideal for salads.

Optimal Storage Refrigerated, wrapped, 7-10 days
Vitamin K Source 1 serving covers daily needs
Water Content ~95%

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Romaine Lettuce are:

Crisp slightly bitter subtly sweet refreshing

Chef’s Secret

To revive slightly wilted romaine, submerge it in ice water for 15-20 minutes before serving.

Best Substitutes

Iceberg Lettuce

for crunch
Ratio 1:1

Green Leaf Lettuce

for color/texture
Ratio 1:1

Endive

for bitterness
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Look for crisp, dark green leaves without wilting or brown spots. Store unwashed in a plastic bag in the fridge.

Recipes Using Romaine Lettuce

15 Minutes Or Less Preparation Salads 15 Minutes Or Less

Apple And Blue Cheese Salad

This vibrant and surprisingly satisfying Apple and Blue Cheese Salad is a meal in itself! Crisp romaine lettuce, sweet apples, tangy blue cheese, and crunchy almonds create a symphony of flavors and textures. Our secret? Ice-water chilling the romaine for maximum crispness. Use our homemade blue cheese dressing (recipe #175543) or your favorite bottled variety for a quick and easy weeknight meal or a stunning appetizer. This recipe is perfect for a light lunch, a refreshing side dish, or a delightful dinner.

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Course Fruit 15 Minutes Or Less Dietary

Avocado And Mandarin Orange Salad

This elegant Avocado and Mandarin Orange Salad, a recipe passed down from a society matron, is the perfect light and refreshing starter or side dish. Sweet mandarin oranges, creamy avocados, and a zesty citrus dressing create a flavor explosion. Slightly adapted for the home cook, this recipe is easier to make than you think! Impress your guests with this stunning salad.

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Pork Soups Stews Time To Make Tomatoes

Bacon Lettuce And Tomato Sandwich Soup

Reimagine your BLT as a creamy, comforting soup! Chef John Folse's classic recipe gets a gourmet twist. This savory delight features crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, crisp lettuce, and aromatic herbs all simmered in a rich broth. Perfect for a chilly evening or a light lunch, this recipe is surprisingly easy and delivers a burst of flavor in every spoonful. Skip the mayo, and get ready for a taste sensation!

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Low Calorie Cuisine Low In Something Shellfish

Baby Kay's Shrimp Remoulade

Experience the best shrimp remoulade you'll ever taste! This recipe, straight from a beloved Phoenix Cajun restaurant, delivers a burst of flavor in every bite. Succulent shrimp mingle with a creamy, tangy remoulade, creating a dish that's both elegant and unbelievably delicious. Perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight treat. Get ready to impress!

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European European Course Irish

Beef And Blue Cheese Salad

Indulge in this exquisite Beef and Blue Cheese Salad, elevated with the rich, creamy tang of Irish blue cheese and the delightful sweetness of whiskey-soaked raisins. A perfect blend of savory steak, creamy dressing, and a touch of Irish flair, this recipe is sure to impress. Perfect for a special occasion or a satisfying weeknight meal!

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Main Ingredient Main Ingredient Salads Course

Asian Chicken Salad With Peanut Dressing

A taste of Neiman Marcus luxury from the 1980s! This Asian Chicken Salad recipe, originally featured on their restaurant menu, boasts a creamy peanut dressing that's simply irresistible. Slightly updated for today's kitchens, this quick and easy salad is perfect for a weeknight meal or a sophisticated lunch. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

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Low Carb Low Sodium Low In Something 30 Minutes Or Less

Asian Tossed Salad With Wonton Strips

This vibrant Asian tossed salad is a flavor explosion! Sweet pineapple and juicy tomatoes mingle with crisp romaine lettuce and a zesty, homemade Asian dressing. Golden-brown, crispy wonton strips add a delightful crunch and irresistible texture. A quick and easy weeknight meal or a refreshing side dish – perfect for any occasion! Inspired by Bonnie Ann Bussiere-Bermeo of Sparks, Nevada.

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Tomatoes Main Ingredient Vegetables Time To Make

Big Bad Blt Wrap

Amp up your lunch game with this Big Bad BLT Wrap! Crispy bacon, creamy avocado, juicy tomatoes, and crisp lettuce all nestled in a warm tortilla with a zesty homemade dressing. Perfect for a quick and satisfying lunch or a tasty snack. Make extra dressing for dipping – you won't be able to resist!

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Salad Dressings Apples Preparation Salad Dressings

Apple And Toasted Pecan Salad With Honey Poppy Seed Dressing

Joan's award-winning Apple & Toasted Pecan Salad is a delightful mix of sweet and savory! This recipe features crisp apples, crunchy toasted pecans, and a luscious honey poppy seed dressing. Easily customizable to your liking, this salad makes a light lunch or a hearty main course with the addition of grilled chicken or other protein. Get ready for a flavor explosion in just 20 minutes!

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Summer Summer Course Preparation

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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Preparation Lunch Easy 30 Minutes Or Less

Greek Feta Burger

Experience the taste of Greece with this mouthwatering Greek Feta Burger recipe! Juicy beef patties infused with salty feta cheese and fresh zucchini are grilled to perfection and topped with a cool, refreshing cucumber-yogurt sauce. This easy-to-follow recipe from Epicurious is perfect for a summer BBQ or a satisfying weeknight dinner. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

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Appetizers Vegetables 3 Steps Or Less Occasion

Aunt Marilyn's Poppy Seed Salad

This stunning Poppy Seed Salad is a family favorite, traditionally served before holiday meals. Aunt Marilyn's secret recipe boasts a vibrant, unforgettable flavor that will impress your guests. Get ready for compliments galore! This easy-to-make salad comes together in minutes, leaving you more time to enjoy your celebration.

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Seafood 60 Minutes Or Less Equipment Fish

Apricot Sauced Salmon

Indulge in this delectable Apricot Sauced Salmon recipe, inspired by Better Homes & Gardens! Flaky salmon is perfectly broiled and drizzled with a vibrant, sweet and tangy apricot sauce, served atop a refreshing spinach salad. This 35-minute recipe is a weeknight winner, perfect for a sophisticated yet simple dinner.

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Preparation Dinner Party Main Ingredient Salads

This Old House Dressing

Discover the secret to This Old House Dressing, a flavorful recipe sourced from a Foam Lake, Saskatchewan community cookbook! This creamy dressing, perfected over time, gets even better after a day of resting, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Inspired by a local fundraising initiative, 'Breast of Friend,' this recipe is surprisingly simple yet incredibly rewarding. Elevate your favorite lettuce salad—the perfect complement to this unique dressing. We recommend adding 3/4 cup of Nutter's crunchy salad mix (a delightful blend of toasted sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, soybeans, and sesame seeds) for extra texture and nutty flavor. Prepare to be amazed!

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Healthy Dietary Low Fat Healthy

A Different Roast Beef Sandwich

This quick and easy roast beef sandwich recipe is perfect for a game day snack or a satisfying lunch. Elevate your classic roast beef sandwich with a flavorful spread and fresh toppings. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this surprisingly delicious and easy-to-make recipe! Enjoy with cold beer and your favorite sports game!

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American 30 Minutes Or Less Kid Friendly Cuisine

All American Cheeseburger Pizza

Fire up your taste buds with this unique and crowd-pleasing All-American Cheeseburger Pizza! Caramelized onions take center stage, adding a sweet and savory depth that's simply irresistible. This recipe is perfect for summer gatherings, offering a fun twist on a classic. Get ready for juicy burger flavors on a crispy pizza crust – a flavor explosion in every bite!

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Low Protein Healthy Inexpensive Low Saturated Fat

15 Minute Greek Garbanzo Bean Salad

This vibrant Greek Garbanzo Bean Salad is packed with protein and fresh flavors! Ready in just 15 minutes, it's the perfect healthy and delicious weeknight meal or potluck side dish. Bursting with fresh herbs, juicy tomatoes, and creamy feta, this salad is surprisingly light yet satisfying. The simple, healthy dressing allows the fresh ingredients to shine. Get ready for a taste of the Mediterranean, without the long prep time!

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