Kale is a common staple at most farmers markets and in CSA boxes these days. This leafy green vegetable is packed with vitamins and minerals, including Vitamins A, C, and K, minerals like zinc and potassium, and folate, an important nutrient for brain development.
But Kale can be difficult to acquire a taste for. Raw and on its own, it can be tougher than other leafy greens and can have a bitter taste. So if you want to enjoy this nutrient-rich vegetable, you'll want to find some recipes you like. Thanks to kale's recent rise in popularity, it's not hard to find plenty of recipes online.
One of the most obvious ways to incorporate kale into your diet is in salads. Because of kale's thick texture, it can mix well with any dressing. Chick-fil-a, for instance, recently introduced their "Superfood Side" which is basically a salad of kale, broccolini, and walnuts with a maple vinaigrette dressing.
You can also try adding kale to some of your favorite cooked dishes. Kale can be sauteed, mixed into soups, and added to casseroles. Kale tends to pair well with eggs, cheese, rice, bacon, mushrooms, and nuts, so if you have a favorite dish that incorporates these ingredients, try adding in some chopped kale.
If all else fails, you can always try kale chips. Even those who don't like kale will likely admit they like kale chips. Drizzle kale leaves with olive oil, salt, and parmesan cheese, and bake in the oven for 10 to 15 minutes at 350 degrees. Of course, almost anything would taste good covered in olive oil, salt, and parmesan cheese, but if that's what some folks need to partake in the bounty of this vitamin-rich leafy vegetable, then that works for us!
And if you need some more ideas, you can always ask a kale farmer at your local market!