If You Haven't Been Cooking Your Lettuce, You Should Be

Cooking lettuce might sound unconventional, but it can transform this leafy green into a delightful and versatile component of your meals. While often relegated to salads and sandwiches, lettuce can be sautéed, grilled, or even braised to reveal new textures and flavors. Heat brings out a slight sweetness in lettuce, especially varieties like romaine and iceberg, which maintain their structure when cooked. Sautéing lettuce with garlic and olive oil makes for a quick and nutritious side dish, while grilling adds a smoky depth that pairs well with proteins. Braising lettuce with broth and aromatics turns it into a tender and savory addition to a meal. Cooking lettuce not only enhances its flavor profile but also offers a warm alternative to raw salads, particularly appealing in cooler weather. It’s a great way to reduce food waste, as even slightly wilted leaves can be revived through cooking. Additionally, cooked lettuce retains its nutritional benefits, offering a healthy dose of vitamins A and K. Embracing cooked lettuce expands your culinary repertoire, allowing you to discover new ways to enjoy this versatile green beyond the salad bowl.