Romaine lettuce is type of lettuce that grows long sturdy leaves with strong ribs. It is more nutritious than iceberg lettuce, and unlike other types, can hold it’s own to heat, so it’s an easier lettuce to serve warm, braised or in soup. It’s most common use is in the classic Ceasar Salad, which might be inspired by it’s history in the Italian city Rome, from which it is said to have spread into the West. It’s also commonly used in Middle Eastern cuisine. It contains antioxidants considered protective against cancer.
Preparation
Always wash fresh produce thoroughly using cold water. For lettuce, it is best to wash each individual leaf. Discard any bruised or discolored leaves. FOr use in salad, dry leafs and chop leaves into medium size pieces as desired, discarding the core and leafless part of the stem. To prevent browning on edges of leaves, you can also tear it rather than cut it. Wait to toss with dressing until ready to serve.