Romaine lettuce: A crunchy treat with healing effects

The ancient Romans knew what was good. They ate Roman lettuce at the end of a meal. Why? It aided digestion and induced sleep. Emperor Augustus even had a statue erected for it. He believed that the lettuce cured him of an illness.

What makes romaine lettuce so special? It contains lactucin. This substance positively affects digestion, calms the mind, and relieves cramps. But that’s not all. The lettuce is rich in iron, vitamins B and C, carotene, and fiber. It’s a real vitamin bomb!

Versatile Use in the Kitchen

In modern cuisine, romaine lettuce has an irreplaceable place. It is mainly used in cold dishes. But don’t be afraid to experiment. You can stew it, bake it, or even grill it. It is also suitable for soups.

Probably the most famous dish is Caesar salad, which we also serve as part of Journey to the Plate. It was first prepared by Italian restaurateur Caesar Cardini operating in Mexico. It is said that after a busy weekend in 1924, he created this recipe from what was left in his depleted kitchen. His original version contained romaine lettuce, garlic, croutons, parmesan, boiled egg, olive oil, and Worcestershire sauce.

Historical Trivia

Did you know that romaine lettuce has a long and rich history? Even in ancient Rome, it was considered a delicacy. Emperors loved it for its taste and healing properties. It is even said to have been part of the feast during the celebrations of the founding of Rome.

Modern Research

In recent years, scientists have been discovering more and more benefits of romaine lettuce for our health. For example, they have found that it contains antioxidants that may help fight cancer. It has also been shown that regular consumption of this lettuce may contribute to reducing the risk of heart disease.

See what we cooked in Journey to the Plate!

Culinary Tips

Romaine lettuce doesn’t have to be just part of classic salads. Try grilling it and serving it with balsamic vinegar and parmesan. Or use it instead of a tortilla and wrap your favorite ingredients in it. The possibilities are endless and all are delicious!

Cesta na talíř

Cesta na talíř

For Aramark restaurants, we buy fresh seasonal ingredients from local farmers and growers. A few hours after the harvest, we prepare our specialties. This reduces our carbon footprint while supporting the local economy.