Butterhead (Boston, Butter, Bibb) Lettuce

Butterhead lettuce brings exceptional tenderness and delicate flavor to salads, sandwiches, and wraps with its signature soft, buttery leaves that practically melt in your mouth. Also known as Boston lettuce, butter lettuce, or Bibb lettuce, this beloved leafy green features loose, rounded heads with pale green outer leaves and creamy yellow-green hearts. The leaves have a distinctively smooth, almost silky texture that sets butterhead lettuce apart from crispier varieties like iceberg or romaine. Its mild, slightly sweet flavor makes it incredibly versatile and appealing to all palates, including children who might shy away from more bitter greens. The tender leaves are perfect for creating elegant lettuce cups for Asian-inspired dishes, wrapping fresh spring rolls, or serving as a delicate bed for composed salads. In the kitchen, butterhead lettuce shines in both American and international cuisines. The whole leaves work beautifully as natural wraps for Korean barbecue, Vietnamese fresh rolls, or Mediterranean mezze platters. For salads, pair butterhead lettuce with light vinaigrettes, fresh herbs, and gentle ingredients like avocado, cucumber, or citrus segments that won't overpower its subtle taste. The leaves are too delicate for heavy dressings or prolonged cooking, so add them to warm dishes at the last moment or use them fresh. Store your butterhead lettuce in the refrigerator crisper drawer and gently wash the leaves just before serving to maintain their characteristic buttery texture and fresh appearance.