Crisp, refreshing iceberg lettuce brings that perfect satisfying crunch to countless dishes, making it one of America's most beloved leafy greens and a staple in kitchens worldwide.
This classic head lettuce features tightly packed, pale green leaves with a mild, clean flavor and exceptionally crisp texture that holds up beautifully in both raw and cooked applications. Iceberg lettuce originated from selective breeding of wild lettuce varieties and has become synonymous with American cuisine, though it's now enjoyed globally. The dense, round heads offer impressive shelf life and versatility, with outer leaves providing maximum crunch while inner leaves deliver tender sweetness. Each head typically yields generous portions, making it an economical choice for families and meal prep enthusiasts.
Iceberg lettuce shines as the foundation for classic wedge salads, traditional Caesar salads, and crispy lettuce wraps that showcase its structural integrity. Its neutral flavor profile makes it an ideal base for bold dressings, fresh vegetables, and protein additions without overwhelming other ingredients. Beyond salads, try using whole leaves as natural taco shells, adding shredded iceberg to burgers and sandwiches for extra crunch, or incorporating it into fresh spring rolls and Asian lettuce wraps. The lettuce pairs beautifully with creamy dressings like ranch and blue cheese, as well as vinaigrettes and citrus-based dressings. For best results, keep heads refrigerated and wash leaves just before serving to maintain that signature crisp texture that makes iceberg lettuce a kitchen essential.