The general rule of thumb for lettuces and greens is the darker the better. Iceberg lettuce does not pack the same nutritional punch as spinach. In fact, I never buy it anymore. I really hate washing and prepping a head of iceberg. It is just not worth the effort for its lack of flavor and nutritional value. I much prefer dark leafy greens. That being said, there are some leafy greens most people will not touch dressed much less buy fresh and undressed at the grocery store. Kale and collards are intimidating for most people even though we all know they are packed with nutrition. In fact, Kale contains compounds that produce enzymes that fight cancer and is used in anti-cancer diets. It eases congestion, contains powerful anti-oxidant properties, aids in digestion and is a great source of calcium, iron and vitamins A and C. Still, Kale just never appealed to me with it's rough edges, tough texture and bitter flavor. It's just one of those vegetables we know is good for us, but don't eat because we just aren't sure what to do with it. Recently, I tried it raw in a salad form and was really surprised at how delicious it was. Because it is a tough green it stands up well to acidic dressings that can wilt spinach to mush in a matter of hours. It's even tastier the next day. So, here is my version of the delicious salad I tasted and loved.
Avocado and Kale Salad
1-2 bunches of raw kale, washed trimmed of stalks, and chopped into bite size pieces
1 ripe avocado
4 green onions chopped
juice from 1/2 lime (plus or minus for flavor)
salt to taste
Mash avocado with lime juice, salt and onions in a small bowl. In a large salad bowl add chopped kale and toss thoroughly with avocado dressing. Allow to sit and marinate for about 30 minutes before serving.
This recipe is really easy and delicious. My husband is willing to try anything I make, but when I mentioned kale salad he made sure I wasn't going to be offended if he didn't like it. Well, the skeptic gobbled it up and went back for seconds. Even my 3 year old daughter ate two bites without spitting it out! I did have to bribe her with promises of a cookie to try it. Whatever works, right?
Wow... i'm still juvenile enough that I don't do leafy green vegetables. I admit, my nose wrinkled at the thought of eating kale. But since I don't have a choice but to eat healthier, I might give this a try :)
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