We all know that the toppings you put on your burger can make or break it! And we all want the best burger around! One of the most popular toppings is lettuce. I know, “yawn” lettuce? But really, what are the best types of lettuce for burgers that won’t sog up your burger, but will give it that perfect added crunch!
We are going to talk more about the different types of lettuce. You may be surprised at what you find out. You can also check out our quick infographic here!
Iceberg Lettuce
Probably the most popular and the cheapest of the lettuce varieties, Iceberg is the most used on burgers and in salads due to its mild, neutral taste and massively crunchy texture. It is the most basic and common lettuce variety.
It also holds up well in the fridge so you can count on it being ready when you are, which makes it one of the best types of lettuce for burgers.
It has been thought of as really having no nutritional value and is actually the lowest in nutritional value than other greens. But did you know it is actually rich in alpha-carotene which are antioxidants? These help fight the free radicals that invade our bodies every day. It is also a good source of vitamin B6 and potassium. So a bit of a bonus with your burger.
Also, keep in mind that Iceberg lettuce contains a lot of water. So you may want to pat it dry a bit before adding to your burger and it may get the burger a big soggy if not careful.
Romaine
Romaine lettuce is widely known and most people prefer it used in salads due to its nutritional value and its rich flavor. But we are talking about burgers here, so is it one of the best types of lettuce for burgers?
First it is a healthy choice (I know, not really looking for that on your burger, but can’t hurt) as it is an excellent source for fiber, and vitamins C and A. These vitamins aid in the defense against harmful free radicals and the Vitamin A with their antioxidant properties.
Romaine also contains Vitamin K that helps bone metabolism. It has also been shown to help patients suffering from Alzheimer’s.
But does it hold up on a burger? Well, not as well as you might hope. Romaine leaves have a low tolerance for heat resulting in wilting on the burger. So you end up with a soft, soggy piece of lettuce.
But if you still want to use the Romaine, you can use the romaine hearts instead. This part of the leaf is crunchy and tender so it will work great on your burger. Also, the stem part of the leave has a bit of a sweet flavor, if you like that idea. If you insist on the leaves, add it to the top of the burger above your tomatoes and onions so it won’t wilt from the juices of the burger.
Green Leaf
Green leaf lettuce has a buttery flavor which is a nice enhancement to your burger. The curly leaves work well on a burger and won’t get soggy.
Green leaf is crisp and can have a sweet or bitter smell depending on the variety. The leaves have a mild flavor and the stalk is juicy. If you opt to use the part of the stalk for your burger, be sure to pat some of the water out so you don’t end up with the excess water running down your burger.
Like many other varieties, green leaf is rich in antioxidants, a good source of Vitamin C and A. Green leaf is actually more nutritious than iceberg and romaine, so I that matters to you then use the green leaf. And it doesn’t hurt to add a bit of extra nutrition to your hamburger!
Butterhead
There are two types of Butterhead lettuce – Boston and Bibb. Both varieties have that buttery texture that is a great flavor enhancer to your burger, and a sweet, but mild flavor. These make one of the best types of lettuce for burgers due to their “cup” type of form that works well on a burger.
This type of lettuce has compact leaves that are tender. The leaves grow somewhat in the shape of a rose, so if you are looking to bump up the appearance factor of your burger, this is the way to go.
Since the leaves form a type of cup it works well on the burger as it is a rounded shape and holds up well. This variety is a bit on the high priced side, but it helps that it has a very long refrigerator shelf life – just keep the roots wet.
Radicchio
If you are looking for a whole different look and taste to your burger, try this lettuce. Radicchio leaves have a bitter and spicy flavor, which could have quite a different taste to your burger. It has a firm, not crunchy, texture and keep in mind has a short shelf life. So if you are giving it a try, use right when purchased.
Radicchio is a wonderful lettuce if grilled. So to give your burger a whole new flavor, try roasting some of these leaves for a warm lettuce flavor.
The nutritional factors of radicchio include B vitamins that help metabolize fat, protein, and carbs. Vitamin C, which has so many benefits – too many to name here! And Vitamin K which helps improve bone health.
French or Summer Crisp
Summer Crisp lettuce actually comes in various varieties and is very similar to Romaine, but has a sweet, juicy flavor – less bitter than Romaine can be.
One thing about the summer crisp is that it is very heat tolerant. So growing and using it in our summer grilling will ensure a sweet, not bitter, taste. You then don’t have to worry about your lettuce going soft when you are grilling in the heat of the summer.
Since this lettuce is a deeper colored leafy green, it is known to have a higher value of vitamins and minerals, so here is your nutrition factor added to your burger.
The Conclusion to the Best Types of Lettuce for Burgers
There are so many options to choose from if you like to have lettuce as part of your topping requirements for your burger. These are just a few of the best types of lettuce for burgers.
Let us know what you prefer, and why, on your burger to make it the best burger ever. And we are not just talking about a beef burger. These can be added to any type of burger – chicken, turkey and more.
We always love to hear your ideas and take on the many ways to dress up your burger! You might want to check out this conversation about lettuce on burgers, leaf or shredded! It’s interesting to see different takes on something like lettuce!