Seasons/Availability
Gem lettuce is available year-round.
Current Facts
Gem lettuce, botanically classified as Lactuca sativa, is a new hybrid variety of leafy green lettuce that is related to the common head lettuce. The tender leaves have a mild flavor and are primarily used as decorative wraps or stir fry ingredients. Gem lettuce is part of the Asteraceae family and has been grown in California for over 100 years.
Storage
Gem lettuce should be stored in a refrigerator at 40°F or below. It can also be stored wrapped in damp paper towels inside of an open plastic bag. Gem lettuce will keep 3-7 days when properly stored.
Usage
Gem lettuce can be served raw or cooked and is ideal for wraps, sandwiches, salads, stir-fries, and soups. The leaves can be added to tacos or used as a decorative wrap for sushi rolls. It can also be cooked into omelettes or frittatas, steamed as a side dish, or blended into smoothies. Gem lettuce pairs well with fruits such as berries, apples, and oranges and vegetables such as tomatoes, celery, cucumbers, peppers, onions, mushrooms, carrots and radishes. It can also be combined with proteins like chicken and tofu. Gem lettuce will keep for a couple of days when stored in the refrigerator in a sealed container lined with damp paper towels.
Nutritional Value
Gem lettuce is an excellent source of vitamin A and C, potassium, iron, calcium, and dietary fiber. It is also a good source of folate, vitamin K, magnesium, thiamin, niacin and riboflavin.
Uses in Cooking
Gem lettuce adds a mild flavor to dishes and pairs well with other mild flavors like herbs or citrus. The tender leaves can be cooked into omelettes or frittatas, steamed as a side dish or blended into smoothies. They can also be used as decorative wraps for sushi rolls and tacos or added to salads and stir-fries. Gem lettuce pairs well with fruits such as berries, apples, oranges and vegetables such as tomatoes, celery cucumbers, peppers, onions, mushrooms, carrots and radishes. It can also be combined with proteins like chicken and tofu.
Health Benefits
Gem lettuce is an excellent source of vitamins A and C, potassium, iron, calcium and dietary fiber. It is also a good source of folate, vitamin K, magnesium, thiamin, niacin and riboflavin. Eating Gem lettuce regularly may promote improved vision due to its high levels of beta-carotene; help reduce the risk of heart disease due to its high levels of vitamin A; regulate blood pressure through its potassium content; support healthy skin due to its antioxidant content; and improve digestion through its high fiber content.
