Also known as field salad, field lettuce, corn salad, or lamb's lettuce, mâche's narrow, dark-green leaves have a sweet, nutty flavor. Use them raw in salads or steamed as a side dish.
HOW TO BUY
Mâche is generally available year-round. It's sold loose and pre-washed and bagged in some supermarkets and specialty food stores. If you can't find it, try a farmer's market. Look for clean, green leaves and be sure they aren't showing signs of softening, as mâche is very perishable.
HOW TO STORE
Because it is so perishable, use mâche within a day or two. Wash and dry it thoroughly before storing in an airtight plastic bag.
If you can't find mâche, substitute a milder lettuce, such as Boston or red leaf lettuce.