Iceberg Lettuce

Iceberg lettuce has a mild, slightly sweet flavor and a crisp texture, making it a versatile addition to salads, wraps, and sandwiches in vegetarian cooking.

Shopping for Iceberg Lettuce

• Look for firm, crisp heads: The lettuce should feel dense and heavy for its size, indicating it is fresh.
• Check for vibrant color: The leaves should be a pale green to light yellowish-green, without browning or wilting.
• Avoid discolored or limp leaves: Brown edges, spots, or leaves that are wilted or dry can indicate age or poor handling.
• Size matters: Choose smaller heads for more tender leaves, and larger heads if you need more yield for dishes like salads or wraps.
• Check the base: Ensure the core (or stem) is firm and not soft or rotten.

Storing Iceberg Lettuce for Maximum Freshness

• Keep it dry: Excess moisture can cause the lettuce to spoil quickly, so avoid rinsing before storing.
• Refrigerate properly: Wrap the lettuce loosely in a paper towel to absorb excess moisture, then place it in a plastic bag or container with airflow holes.
• Avoid airtight storage: Lettuce needs some air circulation to stay fresh longer.
• Use the crisper drawer: Store iceberg lettuce in the fridge’s crisper drawer, which maintains the ideal humidity.
• Separate damaged leaves: If any leaves are already damaged, remove them to prevent spoilage spreading to the rest of the lettuce.

Shelf Life: How Long Will Iceberg Lettuce Stay Fresh?

• Whole heads: Typically last 7-10 days in the refrigerator when stored properly.
• Pre-cut or bagged lettuce: Usually lasts 3-5 days after opening, depending on freshness at purchase and how it is stored.
• Signs of spoilage: Slimy leaves, strong odor, or a wilted appearance indicate the lettuce is past its prime.

Preparing Iceberg Lettuce for Cooking

• Rinse before use: Wash the leaves thoroughly to remove any dirt or pesticides. Dry them using a salad spinner or paper towels.
• Remove damaged leaves: Peel off any outer leaves that are discolored or damaged before using the inner ones.
• Trim the base: Cut off the hard, woody core at the base of the head before separating the leaves.
• Shred or chop: For salads, shred or chop the lettuce into bite-sized pieces. For cooking, you can slice into wedges or large pieces, depending on the dish.
• Use immediately for best texture: Iceberg lettuce is known for its crunch, so it’s best used fresh in salads or as a garnish. It can be lightly sautéed or grilled, but avoid overcooking to preserve its texture.