Romaine Lettuce Hearts 3 Ct • $2.80 Each

Romaine lettuce (also known as Cos lettuce) is one of the most popular varieties of lettuce, known for its crisp texture, sturdy leaves, and mild, slightly sweet flavor with a hint of bitterness, especially near the rib. Here is a brief overview: ### **Characteristics & Uses** * **Appearance:** It grows in a tall head with elongated, dark green leaves that have a firm rib running down the center. "Romaine hearts" are the smaller, inner leaves, which are typically lighter in color and more tender. * **Flavor & Texture:** It is prized for its pleasant crunch and balanced, mild flavor that pairs well with many ingredients. * **Common Uses:** * It is the traditional green for **Caesar salad**. * Excellent for use in **sandwiches and wraps** because its sturdy leaves hold up well against other ingredients and dressings. * Can be **grilled, sautéed, or roasted** to create a warm side dish, which brings out a surprising nutty undertone. ### **Nutritional Value & Health Benefits** Romaine lettuce is a very nutrient-dense, low-calorie food, primarily consisting of water and fiber. * **Rich in Vitamins:** It is an excellent source of **Vitamin A** (good for eye and skin health) and **Vitamin K** (essential for blood clotting and bone health). It also contains a good amount of **Folate** (a B vitamin important for heart health and preventing certain birth defects) and **Vitamin C** (an antioxidant). * **Minerals and Antioxidants:** It provides essential minerals like **potassium** and **manganese**, and is a source of **lutein** and **beta-carotene**, which act as antioxidants. * **Health Benefits:** Its nutritional profile supports: * **Bone Health** (Vitamin K) * **Eye Health** (Vitamin A, Lutein) * **Heart and Circulatory Health** (Folate, Potassium, Antioxidants) ### **Selection and Storage** * **Selection:** Choose heads with crisp, vibrant green leaves that are free of browning, wilting, or slimy spots. * **Storage:** * Store unwashed, loosely wrapped in a plastic bag or a container with a paper towel in the refrigerator's crisper drawer. * Do not wash the lettuce until you are ready to use it, as excess moisture accelerates spoilage. Properly stored, it can stay fresh for about a week, often longer than other types of lettuce.