Microwaved Iceberg Lettuce

I first prepared microwaved iceberg lettuce on a cold, silent evening. The lights in the kitchen felt harsh against the darkness outside, and as I placed the unassuming head of lettuce into the microwave, I noticed movement through the window. It was my neighbour, standing in their own darkened kitchen, watching. Their silhouette was still, framed perfectly by the glass, as if they couldn’t look away from what was unfolding.

The microwave hummed, its light casting strange shadows on the counter. I imagined what they were thinking as they witnessed this—lettuce, whole and untouched, slowly collapsing under invisible heat.

When the timer beeped, I opened the microwave door to reveal the transformed head, its once-crisp layers now limp and pliable. Through the window, my neighbour lingered for another moment before turning away, leaving me alone with the softened lettuce and the quiet heaviness of the room.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole head of iceberg lettuce

Instructions:

1. Rinse the lettuce thoroughly, leaving it slightly damp.

2. Place it in a microwave-safe dish and cover tightly with plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam.

3. Microwave on high for 5–7 minutes, until the lettuce softens entirely, its structure visibly caving in.

4. Remove carefully and serve immediately.

A Meal Observed

Microwaved iceberg lettuce is not about flavour or texture; it’s about change. It stands as a quiet reflection of simplicity, of shedding what is unnecessary, while others—curious or bewildered—look on from the shadows.

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