Kale is full of vitamins, minerals, protein and fiber. Here's how to enjoy this superfood.
I recently read a weird statistic that said this country's largest consumer of kale is Pizza Hut -- as a garnish for their salad bars!
I don't know if that's true or not, but I do know that kale is one of the healthiest foods around, and it deserves a spot on your plate, not around it.
What Makes Kale So Great
Kale is an excellent source of Vitamin A, Vitamin K, Vitamin C, manganese, fiber, calcium, protein and folate, not to mention it has no fat or cholesterol. Kale, a cruciferous vegetable, is also linked to reduced risk of a variety of cancers.
The problem is kale is a bit rough in texture and has a taste that foodies generally describe as "earthy" (which roughly translates to mean the kids won't like it).
So how do you introduce this superfood to your family's diet?
Kale Recipes
Of course, you can use kale in just about any recipe that calls for spinach. Try it braised or sauteed with a little olive oil. Or try this roasted kale recipe. I always say a little olive oil and salt can do wonders for just about any vegetable, and kale is no exception. This recipe gives kale a light and crispy texture, making it appealing to kids and adults alike. Just be sure not to overcook it.
Or make a rustic tomato pie with kale pesto. Combining kale with olive oil, garlic and cheese mellows its flavor and gives this tomato pie a pleasantly rustic twist.
Kale offers a crisp counterpart to sweet shrimp and creamy cheese in shrimp quesadillas. This recipe is a great way to sneak kale into your meal without noticing it too much.
