Baby iceberg lettuce is simply iceberg lettuce harvested at a young age. Baby iceberg lettuce evolved out of a need to compete with pre-packaged lettuce mixes (konwn as the lazy mans lettuce) and newer lettuce varieties that began shaping trends in the late 20th century. Iceberg lettuce growers fighting for market share found that smaller heads of iceberg lettuce could make their way onto menus alongside lettuces such as Mache, Red Oak and Butter types. The size of the lettuce singularily boosted iceberg lettuce's popularity back into the mainstream.

Baby iceberg lettuce has three truly redeeming qualities. Its tightly bound and broadly shaped leaves are thick-walled and concentrated with more water than virtually any other green. What baby iceberg lettuce may lack in flavor it makes up for with its approachable size as well as its lip-smacking succulence and crunchiness. Outer leaves range in color from sea green to lime green while inner leaves range from pale yellow to a translucent white. All the leaves form a nearly perfect globular head.

Serving Ideas

Although the "wedge" salad began prior to baby iceberg lettuce, it is baby iceberg that now dominates as the star ingredient in the "wedge". One head can be split in half or quarters and simply be graced by the ubiquitous blue cheese dressing and bacon to become a satisfying and economically frugal first course. Other simple companion accoutrements include herbs such as basil and flat leaf parsley, tomatoes, shallots, hard boiled eggs, grilled chicken and a classic vinaigrette of olive oil, dried herbs and cider vinegar.

Geography/History

Iceberg lettuce received its name because of its original method of shipping. In the early 20th century, it was transported in ice in order to preserve its freshness. Prior to the name "iceberg", its given name was Crisphead. In the mid-20th Century, iceberg received a technological jolt to increase its value. Whirlpool Corporation developed controlled and modified atmospheres and packaging to give iceberg lettuce a greater shelf-life and transportational endurance. This technological advance allowed for iceberg lettuce to become perhaps the single most important commercial lettuce world wide.

Seasons/Availability

Baby iceberg lettuce is available year round.