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 What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you think of lettuce?  For me, the first thing I always think of is good old fashioned iceberg.  Iceberg the lettuce of all lettuces for the 70s and 80s is no longer the first lettuce you see in your salad. 

There are four common types of lettuce - these include romaine (Cos), crispheads, butterheads, and leaf lettuce.  Romaine is the tall, sturdy, dark green that most people associate with Caesar Salad.  The crisphead family is where you will find the classic, iceberg lettuce.  This type of lettuce is usually lighter green with a tight head, the leaves tender to be thinner and the texture is “crisp”.  This type of lettuce has a more watery taste.  The third most common type of lettuce is butterhead.  This group of lettuce includes Boston and Bibb.  This group has a softer and more tender texture.  The leaves are not as closely held together as in a crisphead.  The last common type of lettuce is leaf lettuce.  They vary in color from green to red.   The edges of the leaves can be curly or ruffled.  The texture is more crisp than the butterhead variety.  The flavor is similar to butterhead, in that it is more delicate. 

Other types of greens that are not classified as lettuce varieties are also commonly found in salads - these include arugula, radicchio, mache, and spinach.  Arugula has a “peppery” flavor and works well as an accent to other greens.  Radicchio is another vegetable that is often used as an accent in salads.  The taste is slightly bitter.  Mache is also known as lamb’s lettuce.  Mache is a delicate leaf with a mild taste.  Baby spinach is often used in salad mixes or alone. 

Okay, so there is a quick overview of some of the lettuce and greens available for you in your salad.  This list is by no means extensive and there are many other choices available.  Here are some recipe options for you for the next time you want to use some of these lettuces and greens. 

Emeril’s Wedgie Salad (with Iceberg) - http://www.foodnetwork.com/food/recipes/recipe/0,,FOOD_9936_30938,00.html?rsrc=search

Giada’s Antipasto Salad (with Iceberg, Romaine and Butter lettuces) - http://www.foodnetwork.com/food/recipes/recipe/0,,FOOD_9936_28006,00.html?rsrc=search

Dave’s Pan Grilled Veggie Sandwiches (with Arugula) - http://www.foodnetwork.com/food/recipes/recipe/0,,FOOD_9936_30972,00.html?rsrc=search

Mario’s Baked Goat Cheese Tortellini with Radicchio - http://www.foodnetwork.com/food/recipes/recipe/0,,FOOD_9936_10583,00.html?rsrc=search