Loose leaf lettuce is a lettuce variety which does not form a compact head. There are numerous different types of loose leaf lettuce, with basic red and green being the most common. This lettuce varietal is very easy to grow and it can be flexibly used in a wide variety of recipes, making it a popular choice for the garden and market. Most markets and greengrocers carry several types of loose leaf lettuce, and it is also possible to grow at home.

The leaves on a head of loose leaf lettuce arrange themselves around a central stalk. They tend to be slightly curly, with firm central ribs. In slightly older lettuce, the leaves tend to splay out, while younger lettuces may be more upright. The flavor of loose leaf lettuce is mild and sometimes a bit sweet, with a hint of butter; red loose leaf lettuce can also be a bit spicy.

In the market, look for heads with firm leaves and no signs of discoloration, slime, or spotting. When you bring the lettuce home, keep it loosely wrapped in a plastic bag, and fold a wet towel around the base of the lettuce if you want it to last longer. Before use, always wash loose leaf lettuce, and check for bugs and slugs which may have traveled to the market with your lettuce.

Sandwiches often include loose leaf lettuce, and this lettuce can also be used in salads or as a garnish. It tends to be relatively sturdy and hardy, which can be convenient for a small household which does not go through a lot of lettuce. To use a whole head, you can twist the base of the lettuce off and dump the leaves into a colander or salad spinner for washing and drying. Try to avoid putting washed lettuce back in the fridge, as it can spot, wilt, or develop slimy spots.

If you want to grow loose leaf lettuce, plant seeds in a well composted bed or box after the last chance of frost. Keep the soil moist, but not soggy, and harvest the lettuce as desired. Many people like to stagger their lettuce plantings so that they have a steady supply of lettuce, and you can also mix your lettuce varietals for more variation so that you don't get tired of eating the same type. If lettuce is left in the ground too long, it will go to seed, in which case the leaves will be bitter and papery.