Discover the main types of lettuce and learn how to store them correctly to prepare different recipes
Present in everyday meals, from appetizers to main courses, lettuce is known to be an extremely versatile and nutrient-rich ingredient, which aids in weight loss and eye health, as well as preventing premature skin aging and helping regulate blood sugar.
With so many shapes, textures and flavors, Água Doce Sabores do Brasil nutritionist Tamiris Pitana explains the different types of lettuce, the benefits and adaptations of the vegetable in each recipe.
American
The most common in supermarkets and Brazilian diets, iceberg lettuce is ideal for salads and sandwiches. It has a high water content and provides a milder flavor than other types of lettuce, with a firmer and crispier texture.
Curly
Ideal for salads, curly lettuce contains phosphorus and calcium in its composition, in addition to being rich in antioxidants and fiber, helping the health of the digestive system. It has a more bitter flavor and curly and crunchy leaves.
Roman
Widely used in Caesar salad, romaine lettuce has long, tough, crisp leaves. It has a slightly bitter flavor, is heat resistant, and is a source of vitamins A and C. It also contains antioxidants that help prevent diabetes and heart disease.
Viola
Brightly colored and widely used to embellish dishes, purple lettuce contains anthocyanins, powerful antioxidants, in addition to being 96% water, which contributes to hydration. The flavor is more intense than other types of lettuce, making it well accepted in dishes that include a mix of leaves.
Lisa
A source of calcium and potassium, smooth lettuce is known for its long, soft leaves. It has a milder, more refreshing flavor than other types of lettuce and is ideal for assembling burgers or other snacks because it can withstand high temperatures.
Beads
Frisée lettuce, also called frisée, contains vitamins A and C, calcium and phosphorus. With thin and curly leaves, it has a crunchy texture and a bitter taste. Widely used in salads that require better presentation and give crunchiness to the dish.
Mimosa
With loose, delicate leaves that may have purple tips, mimosa lettuce provides a slightly bitter flavor with a light, smooth texture. It is less crunchy than other types of lettuce, making it a great pairing for other greens because of its bold flavor.
How to choose and store?
The post-harvest life of the foliage is very short, so it is important to check that the leaves are fresh, without broken parts, with a shiny, firm appearance and without dark or yellow areas. The ideal is to store the ingredient in the refrigerator, in a jar with a lid or in a perforated plastic bag, in this way it is possible to maintain the quality of the food for longer.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
