Grilled Romaine

When it comes time to count off my favorite things to grill, it doesn’t take a whole lot of work to fill the list. While I’m certain to rattle off a fair amount of meat, there may be one surprise addition: lettuce.

When I talk to friends about grilling lettuce, I get the “your mad” look. Well yes, maybe at times, but when I’m talking about grilling lettuce, I do not mean dropping a bunch of chopped greens on the grate to see what happens. Hint: Nothing good.

Romaine is my favorite leafy green to grace my grill. It’s sturdy enough to take a few minutes of heat and when lightly grilled comes out transformed. The satisfying crunch is now accentuated by a little warmth, a softer texture, and a hint of smoke.

Take two romaine hearts and slice them in half through the stem. Drizzle with olive oil and season well with kosher salt and freshly cracked pepper.