Butter lettuce

Description

Butter lettuce is a delicate, round head with soft, thin leaves in shades of light green, often with a slightly glossy, "buttery" texture and a mild, subtly sweet flavor. It is exceptionally velvety in the mouth, without the bitterness typical of many other lettuces. It is low in calories, high in water and fiber, and provides vitamins A, C, K, as well as folic acid and minerals, primarily potassium; it also contains antioxidants that support immunity, eye health, and the circulatory system. In the kitchen, it works great in salads, sandwiches, wraps, and as a delicate base for fancy dressings, pairing well with citrus, olive oil, and fresh herbs. Store in the refrigerator, preferably unwashed, wrapped in a paper towel in a container or bag, at a temperature of about 1–4°C, and use within a few days.