Just what's in lettuce mixes and what are some new ways to use them?

Not too long ago, lettuce mixes only graced plates at swanky restaurants. Today, they're as close as our produce department—and lucky for us, because they're tasty, colorful and nutritious.

A "mix" can contain just two types of lettuce or up to a dozen different ones. They may feature familiar offerings like romaine lettuce and baby spinach, or exotic types like tango, lollo rosa, radicchio and mizuna. Some also contain herbs such as parsley, dill and cilantro.

As for nutrition, two cups of mixed baby salad greens contain only 15 calories, no fat, and are an excellent source of vitamins A and C, and iron.

You'll find convenient prewashed lettuce mixes in bags and containers (check the label to make sure they're prewashed—otherwise you need to wash them; some mixes are sold in bulk, which always need washing).

Looking for an organic mix? Pick up a container of our O Organics™ spring mix, fresh herb or mixed baby green salad.

Of course, lettuce mixes make great salads, but think outside the bowl with these ideas:

Our Nutrition Experts are registered dietitians who hold master's degrees and are members of the American Dietetic Association and several specialty nutrition groups. They combine over 40 years experience in food and nutrition science, communications and counseling, the culinary arts and the development of nutrition education materials. They are quoted frequently in the national media and have written about nutrition for many major magazines, newspapers, and newsletters.