Lettuce
There are hundreds of varieties of lettuce, but to keep it simple they are divided into 4 groups: Crisphead, Butterhead, Looseleaf and Romaine/Cos.
Lettuce is grown two ways; by direct field seeding or by transplanting seedlings. In Idaho, commercial lettuce seed is grown and distributed. A farmer’s market is great place to find lettuce seeds.
Lettuce grows best when the average temperature is between 60 to 70 degrees and should be planted in early spring or late summer.
Lettuce varies in nutritional value. Its most important nutrient is beta-carotene, which our body turns into vitamin A. The darker the green the lettuce the more beta-carotene it contains. Except for Iceburg lettuce, it is also a good source of vitamin C, calcium, copper and iron.
To keep your lettuce fresh and delicious for your dishes, wash, drip dry, and place in a plastic bag in the refrigerator. Lettuce can be used in sandwiches, wraps, and various types of salads.
Idaho grows three varities of lettuce including red leaf, green leaf, and romaine. These varities can be found at farmers markets and some grocery stores.
