Red and Green Butter Lettuce

Red and Green Butter Lettuce is cherished for its mild, buttery flavour and tender, soft leaves. Combining these two varieties not only adds a delicate sweetness and smooth texture to dishes but also brings a beautiful contrast of colours, making meals both delicious and visually appealing.

Red and Green Butter Lettuce:

• Flavour: Butter lettuce, whether red or green, offers a mild, buttery flavour. Its tender, soft leaves provide a delicate texture and subtle sweetness, making it an incredibly versatile ingredient capable of enhancing both simple and gourmet dishes.
• Usage: Ideal for use in wraps, fresh salads, and as a delicate bed for grilled fish or chicken. The soft, velvety leaves are also perfect for sandwiches, adding a luxurious texture, or for use in elegant appetizers where presentation matters.
• Fact: Butter lettuce has a rich history as a favourite among European royalty, celebrated for its tender texture and mild taste. Nutritionally, it is rich in folate, which is crucial for cell repair and DNA synthesis, making it a healthy and elegant choice for chefs and home cooks looking to create beautiful and nutritious meals.

How to Use Red and Green Butter Lettuce:

• Salads: Combine red and green butter lettuce leaves to create a salad that is not only flavorful but also visually stunning. The mild sweetness and tender texture pair well with light vinaigrettes, fruits, and nuts.
• Wraps: Use large, soft leaves as wraps for various fillings, from grilled chicken to vegetarian options. The butter lettuce adds a smooth texture that complements the richness of the filling.
• Garnishes and Plating: The vibrant colors and soft leaves of butter lettuce make it ideal for garnishing dishes or serving as a bed for appetizers and main courses, adding both flavor and visual appeal.

3 Recipes Using Red and Green Butter Lettuce

1. Mixed Butter Lettuce Salad with Honey-Lemon Vinaigrette

Ingredients:

• 1 head Red Butter Lettuce, leaves separated
• 1 head Green Butter Lettuce, leaves separated
• 1/4 cup toasted almonds
• 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
• 1 apple, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large salad bowl, combine the red and green butter lettuce leaves, toasted almonds, crumbled goat cheese, and apple slices.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.
4. Serve immediately as a refreshing and elegant salad.

2. Butter Lettuce Wraps with Herbed Chicken

Ingredients:

• 1 head Red Butter Lettuce, leaves separated
• 1 head Green Butter Lettuce, leaves separated
• 1 pound grilled chicken breast, sliced
• 1/4 cup hummus
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup cucumber, thinly sliced

Instructions:

1. Spread a spoonful of hummus onto each butter lettuce leaf.
2. Place a few slices of grilled chicken on top, followed by cucumber slices.
3. Sprinkle with fresh dill and parsley.
4. Roll the lettuce leaf around the filling and serve as a light, healthy appetizer or lunch.

3. Butter Lettuce and Avocado Open-Faced Sandwich

Ingredients:

• 1 head Red Butter Lettuce, leaves separated
• 1 head Green Butter Lettuce, leaves separated
• 1 ripe avocado
• 4 slices whole-grain bread, toasted
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions:

1. Mash the avocado with lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
2. Spread the mashed avocado evenly over the toasted bread slices.
3. Top each slice with a few leaves of red and green butter lettuce.
4. Sprinkle with red pepper flakes if desired, and serve immediately as a nutritious and colourful breakfast or snack.

These recipes highlight the versatility and elegance of Red and Green Butter Lettuce, allowing you to enjoy its tender texture and mild flavour in various delicious dishes. Whether you’re crafting a simple salad, a light wrap, or a visually appealing appetizer, Butter Lettuce adds both taste and beauty to your meals.