Salad Lettuce and Leaf osolocal2u | Lambs Lettuce (Mache) (80g)

Description/Taste:
Lambs lettuce, also known as mâche or corn salad, is a small leafy green with tender, spoon-shaped leaves. These leaves have a velvety texture and a mild, slightly nutty flavour. Their delicate nature makes them a favourite in gourmet salads and upscale dining establishments.

Seasons/Availability:
Lambs lettuce is available year-round in the UK. It's grown locally and is also imported from Europe depending on the season, ensuring a consistent supply throughout the year.

Uses & Flavour Pairings:
Lambs lettuce is most commonly used fresh in salads, where its delicate texture and flavour can be best appreciated. Given its subtle taste, it pairs wonderfully with light vinaigrettes, citrus fruits, avocados, nuts, and soft cheeses. Due to its tenderness, it's best to add dressings just before serving to prevent the leaves from becoming too wilted.

Nutritional Information & Allergens:
Mâche is nutritionally dense for a leafy green, offering a good source of vitamins A and C, as well as iron and potassium. It also contains B vitamins and beneficial omega-3 fatty acids. Naturally gluten-free, lambs lettuce is not typically associated with allergens.

Preparation and Storage:
Preparation is simple: rinse the leaves gently under cold water to remove any grit or soil, and then pat dry. If storing, it's advisable to keep lambs lettuce in the vegetable drawer of the refrigerator, ideally in a produce bag or container, where it can remain fresh for up to a week.

History:
Lambs lettuce has been consumed since ancient times, with records of its cultivation dating back to the Roman era. Its alternative name, mâche, is derived from the French word for "mash" or "pulp", possibly referring to its tender texture.