Crisphead lettuce

The name says it all: it has to be fresh and crisp! And it keeps fresh and crisp for a surprisingly long period of time – when stored in the fridge at 1 to 4 degrees, it keeps for up to two weeks. It is a variety of butterhead lettuce. At the beginning of the 20th century, it was produced in large amounts in western USA, from where it was transported. It was named “iceberg lettuce” because, as there was no refrigeration system at the time, the lettuce was transported in ice-filled rail cars to the east coast.

When torn or cut into strips, iceberg lettuce tastes delicious with either a vinegar-and-oil or a yogurt/cream dressing. It also tastes delicious when combined with other vegetable, fruit or salad ingredients.