My garden is bursting with fresh, young, tender lettuce and I’m loving it!  I planted several different varieties this year, including green and red leafy mixes, butter crunch and a head variety. 

Fresh lettuce is beautiful in the garden and tasty at the table. It’s very low calorie with only about 10 calories per cup.  It provides fiber, vitamins A (beta carotene) and C, and potassium.  The darker the lettuce, the higher the beta carotene content. 

Lettuce is so refreshing and light since it contains about 95% water.  It can be easily dressed with a light creamy dressing or vinaigrette.  Rinse fresh lettuce just before serving in cold water.  Dry in a salad spinner and/or pat dry with a clean towel.  Salad dressing clings better to dry leaves. Tear lettuce instead of cutting with a knife because cut edges may discolor quickly.  Toss with your favorite dressing right before serving because fresh lettuce leaves wilt quickly after dressed.

Hope you all enjoy the light, fresh, tender taste of fresh garden lettuce this season.