Lettuce Is Not Boring: Types, Tips, and Recipes from Spring to Summer

Lettuce: A Vegetable with Many Shades

Often seen as a mere side, lettuce is actually an extremely versatile ingredient used in countless recipes, capable of enriching our dishes with flavor, color, and health benefits. Belonging to the Lactuca sativa species, it comes in many varieties, each with its own characteristics. Romaine lettuce, for example, is known for its long, crunchy leaves, ideal for hearty salads. Iceberg stands out for its firm texture and mild taste, great for sandwiches and fresh salads. Gentilina, with its curly, tender leaves, adds a decorative touch to dishes, while lollo, in both red and green varieties, has a slightly bitter flavor. Other types like canasta, cappuccina, and pasqualina further expand culinary possibilities, offering room for new and tasty combinations.

The Health Benefits of Lettuce

Besides its culinary use, lettuce is rich in properties beneficial to the body. Composed of over 90% water, it’s an excellent ally for hydration, especially during hot months. It’s also a valuable source of fiber, aiding digestion and promoting a sense of fullness, making it ideal for low-calorie diets. Lettuce provides vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like iron, calcium, and potassium, all of which support bone, skin, and immune system health. Some varieties even contain compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, helping counter oxidative stress and protect cardiovascular health.

Pasta with Lettuce: A Classic Example

To give lettuce a twist, here’s one of many available recipes: pasta with lettuce. Start by trimming a head of lettuce, removing the tougher outer leaves, and washing it thoroughly. Cut into strips and set aside. In a large pan, sauté a sliced spring onion in a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. Add the lettuce and let it wilt. Meanwhile, cook 320 g of short pasta in plenty of salted water. Drain it al dente, saving some cooking water, and combine with the lettuce in the pan. Sauté everything together for a few minutes, adding some cooking water if needed to mix well. Finish with a pinch of black pepper and a drizzle of raw olive oil. For a richer version, add chopped toasted almonds or grated cheese to taste. This simple yet flavorful dish is perfect for a light and nutritious summer lunch.