Kale Ideas

Photo: flickr user chispita_666

Preparation

I bet Bob is only one to eat the piece of kale - decoration - they serve at a restaurant. He likes it. I use it along with basil to make a pesto; wilt it like spinach; toss in salads; cut it into strips and add to soups - especially potato soup with Italian seasonings. [PatHanneman

My absolute easiest and favorite way to eat kale is to add it to mashed potatoes! (Called "Colcannon" in some circles. :-) )

Simply steam or microwave the kale (that's been washed and torn into bite-sized pieces) for about 4-5 minutes, or until it is wilted, and then add it to you favorite mashed potatoes. Personally, we like to add some garlic either to the kale, or potatoes, while we steam it.

Mixing kale with the potatoes is a very "easy" introduction to the green.

But if you're adventurous, and like greens, then you can saute the kale in a little olive oil. You might first want to saute some chopped onion and garlic, then add the kale.

Another favorite use is to add it to soups, just a couple of minutes before you serve the soup. You want the kale in the liquid just long enough to wilt.

Beware, if you overcook kale (or any green), it will become army gray and will be quite unappetizing. It won't hurt you, and some prefer their greens overcooked, but it won't look good. :-)