Romaine lettuce, AKA Cos, is the botanical name given to a wide variety of lettuces. Lettuce is categorized into six different types, also known as subspecies or botanical varieties. The six types of lettuce are Crisphead (Iceberg and Batavian), Romaine, Butter, Latin, Leaf and Stem. All lettuce types except for Iceberg occur in red and green leaf form. The word lettuce itself comes from the Latin lactuca, which is derived from lactus, meaning “milk”. The milk in this sense refers to the milky substance that appears when lettuce leaves are torn or cut from the plant. Although this does not happen with all lettuce types, it is very typical of Romaine lettuces.

Baby Romain lettuce is the most upright growing of all lettuce types. Baby Romaine leaves grow erectly and tightly to form an elongated head. Its outer leaves have lime colors while its inner leaves are yellow to creamy. Its blanched heart becomes translucent white at its core. Baby Romaine lettuce has more texture than flavor. Its leaves are crunchy and succulent with a mild flavor that allows Romaine lettuce to be a very versatile culinary green and multipurpose ingredient in the kitchen.

Serving Ideas

Romaine lettuce is the quintessential Caesar salad green, yet its uses are not limited to being paired with creamy anchovy dressing, Parmesan cheese and croutons. It can replace Iceberg lettuce atop burgers and sandwiches. It also withstands high heat which makes it suitable for grilling and adding to soups and stir fries. Complimentary ingredients include olive oil, citrus, avocado, chiles, garlic, apples, pears, aged and strong cheeses, olives, grilled steak, smoked fish and chicken, bacon, dried fruit and nuts.

Geography/History

Romaine lettuce is named for the eternal city of Rome as it is believed to have originally been discovered by the Romans on the Aegean Island of Cos. It is documented as being the oldest known cultivated lettuce, having been grown for at least 5,000 years. It is a cool-season crop, as are most lettuce varieties, thriving in rich organic soil and climates with warm days and cool nights. Romaine lettuce is best harvested once the leaves are at least four to six inches in length.

Seasons/Availability

Baby Romaine lettuce is available the year round.