Kale vs. Lettuce: What Are Their Differences?

Kale and lettuce are foods we all know are good for us, but we don’t always make an effort to eat them. So it’s time to give lettuce and kale the attention it deserves! Both are healthy and versatile vegetables often used as the base in salads and sandwiches.

Kale and lettuce are both healthy and delicious but also very different. When it comes to nutrition, kale wins the day with its high levels of vitamins A and C, as well as calcium, iron, and fiber. It’s also a great source of protein — one cup contains 2 grams!

Comparison Between Kale vs. Lettuce

The Key Differences Between Kale vs. Lettuce

The key differences between kale and lettuce include classification, description, uses, origin, and how to grow.

Kale vs. Lettuce: Classification

Kale is part of Brassica oleracea, the same species as Brussels sprouts, cabbage, broccoli, and more. Since they are of the Brassica group, they don’t grow a central head compared to varieties such as capitata, which means with a head.

On the other hand, lettuce (Lactuca sativa) is from the Asteraceae family and falls into four varieties, namely:

• Head lettuce (capitata)
• Romaine lettuce (longifolia)
• Leaf lettuce (crispa)
• Celtuce lettuce (augustana)

Kale vs. Lettuce: Description

Unlike lettuce, kale doesn’t form a head. Instead, they have a rosette of long leaves. Depending on the variety, you may see the leaves in green, red, or purple shades of color. You might also notice a difference in its texture and taste.

The main stem of kale is around 24 inches or more during the long growing season, with the long, elongated leaves frilling at the margins. Kale is a biennial plant that produces fruits known as silique and yellow flowers.

Each of the four varieties of lettuce is different. For example, the head lettuce has leaves that fold into a head, while the celtuce has a thick stem and narrow leaves. In addition, there are various colors of lettuce, but you will find the domesticated varieties in multiple shades of green, red, and purple.

Kale vs. Lettuce: Uses

Kale is one of those foods that’s so good for you; it almost seems like a miracle food. And even though everyone feels like they know what kale is, there are still lots of myths about its nutritional benefits, how much to eat, and why you should eat it.

Kale and lettuce are healthy and versatile vegetables because they are low in calories and fat and have a refreshing taste. You can use kale and lettuce in various dishes, including salads, wraps, and sandwiches.

If you are looking for a nutritious and delicious vegetable, look no further than these leafy greens! Here are five reasons why we should all be eating more kale and lettuce:

• Low in calories
• Good source of vitamins and minerals
• Good source of fiber
• Hydrating vegetables
• Versatile vegetables with endless possibilities for meals

While they have benefits, they do differ in nutritional value. For example, kale is higher in fiber, three times richer in carbohydrates, and vitamin C. Kale is also rich in vitamin K, making it great for maintaining healthy bones.

So the next time you’re at the grocery store, make sure to pick up some lettuce. Your body will thank you for it!

Kale vs. Lettuce: Origin and How to Grow

Kale got cultivated for food in early 2000 BCE in the eastern Mediterranean and western Asia. In addition, other cabbage varieties date back to the 4th century BC in Greece. The Romans referred to these varieties as Sabellian kale.

How to Grow Kale

Growing kale is pretty straightforward. Plant kale seeds half an inch deep in compost and nitrogen-rich well-draining soil about one to two feet apart. The best time to plant kale seeds is a few weeks before spring ends, and harvest your new leafy greens in the summer.

Lettuce is a hardy annual plant and is not just grown for consumption but for religious and medicinal purposes. The ancient Egyptians first produced lettuce for its oil from the seeds as early as 1860 BC. In addition, lettuce was a sacred plant, and you can see images of the plant in wall paintings in tombs made during religious ceremonies to celebrate the reproduction god Min. The lettuce in Egypt appeared to be similar to romaine lettuce, and it soon got shared with the Greeks and Romans.

How to Grow Lettuce

Growing lettuce to maturity only takes about 30-60 days! They will thrive at 60-70 degrees Fahrenheit temperatures and does best during fall and spring. Like kale, they prefer full sunlight and loose soil for good drainage. However, remember to test the pH of the soil as they are sensitive to low pH levels.

Kale vs. Lettuce: Special Features

Kale is an exceptional vegetable because it grows so fast and is nutrient-dense. Raw kale has proven to help those with health issues associated with cholesterol or cancer! However, lettuce is highly versatile, and you can pair or add it to almost any meal.

Both kale and lettuce are refreshing vegetables high in nutrients and water. Kale is more nutritious than lettuce, but it’s also tougher to digest. Lettuce is easier to digest but isn’t as nutritious as kale.

When it comes down to it, both are pretty good for you — so eat them up!

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Amverlly/Shutterstock.com