Admit It, Iceberg Is The Best Lettuce

America's Test Kitchen

Video Stats

Host: America's Test Kitchen
Published: Aug 22, 2025
Views: 143.6k

Recipe Overview

Prep: 15 min
Cook: 10 min
Difficulty: Beginner
Serves: 2

Overview

Iceberg lettuce often gets a bad rap, but this video makes a compelling case for its place in our kitchens. The host dives into the history of iceberg lettuce, revealing its origins and unique characteristics that make it a standout among other greens. The crunchy texture and ability to hold up in various dishes are highlighted, making it clear that iceberg is more than just a filler in salads.

One of the most exciting aspects is the demonstration of how to prepare iceberg in different ways. From a towering wedge salad that showcases its dramatic height to using thick slabs in a tuna melt, the versatility of iceberg is impressive. The host emphasizes the importance of keeping the core intact for maximum crunch and flavor, which is a revelation for many.

The video also touches on the practical uses of iceberg lettuce, such as in tacos and as a wrap for grilled cheese sandwiches. These ideas not only elevate the humble iceberg but also inspire viewers to think creatively about how they use this lettuce in their own cooking. The enthusiasm for iceberg is infectious, making it hard not to appreciate its refreshing qualities.

Overall, this video is a celebration of iceberg lettuce, encouraging viewers to embrace its crunch and versatility. Whether you’re making a classic wedge salad or trying out a new way to enjoy it, iceberg lettuce deserves a spot in your fridge.

Recipe Details

Steps & Tips

1
04:36

Pick up a whole head of iceberg lettuce and slam it down on the counter with the core facing down.

2
04:45

Turn the lettuce over and twist out the core.

05:00

Tip: Trim the core of the iceberg lettuce for a sweet and juicy treat.

3
05:07

Chill the iceberg and serving bowls until ready to serve.

05:38

Tip: Chill the iceberg and serving bowls to keep everything cold.

4
05:44

Cut the iceberg through its core and slice each half into wedges, leaving the core intact.

5
05:50

Arrange the wedges rounded side down in the chilled bowls.

6
05:53

Drizzle blue cheese dressing across the top of each wedge.

7
05:58

Scatter diced plum tomatoes, crumbled Roquefort, and crispy bacon lardons over the wedges.

8
06:05

Garnish the wedges with pickled shallots and chives.

06:11

Tip: Use a mountainous wedge cut to maximize height and crunch.

9
06:15

Cut iceberg into 1-inch thick slabs for tuna melts.

06:27

Tip: Cut 1-inch thick slabs of iceberg for tuna melts to add refreshing crunch.

10
06:37

Stack a slab of iceberg on a tuna melt.

11
06:49

Shred iceberg into thin strips for sandwiches.

07:09

Tip: Shred iceberg into thin strips for a delicate crunch in sandwiches.

12
07:11

Open the taco slightly and pile shredded iceberg inside.

13
07:18

Wrap half a grilled cheese sandwich in a leaf of iceberg lettuce.

07:39

Tip: Cut grilled cheese sandwiches into batons for a better lettuce-to-sandwich ratio.

14
07:45

Cut the sandwich into batons.

Ingredients

Serves: 2
Blue Cheese Dressing2 tbsp
Plum Tomatoes1
Bacon4 slices
Chives1 tbsp
Shallots1
Allergen Alerts

Ingredient: Dairy

    → Substitution: Almond Milk

Ingredient: Eggs

    → Substitution: Chia Egg

Nutrition

Calories
150
kcal per serving

Skill Level

Skill Level Beginner
Beginner Intermediate Advanced

Frequently asked questions

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Interesting Tidbits

  • Iceberg lettuce was introduced by the W. Atlee Burpee Seed Company in the late 19th century.
  • Iceberg lettuce is known for its sturdy texture and refreshing crunch.
  • The core of iceberg lettuce is sweet and juicy, making it a delicious part of the head.
  • Iceberg lettuce can withstand shipping, making it a symbol of industrial agriculture.
  • Turgor pressure in plants is what gives iceberg lettuce its crisp texture.