Get the scoop on why this leafy green is so popular.
There are few garnishes that have exploded into superstar status quite the way kale has.
This green leafy vegetable is everywhere, but what is kale?
And what is it good for?
What Is Kale?
However, another great reason to consider working it into yourmeal plansis that it’s super nutrient-dense.
That means it contains things like vitamins, minerals, complex carbohydrates and fiber.
Here are five health benefits of kale.
Cancer Prevention
Kale contains cancer-fighting phytonutrientscompounds produced by plants which are sometimes called phytochemicals.
These compounds may reduce the risk of chronic illnesses like cancer and cardiovascular disease.
Featured Recipe:Kale Salad with Creamy Poppy Seed Dressing
2.
Strong Bones
Like spinach, kale contains calcium, which is critical for bone health.
Heart Health
Eating kale may also help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Most kale recipes you find in books and on the internet are designed around curly kale.
Chinese
Chinese kale (or Chinese broccoli) can be challenging to find outside Asian markets.
It’s also nothing like Tuscan or curly kale.
It has deep purple stems and leafy green fronds with purple accents throughout.
Baby Kale
Just as it sounds, baby kale is harvested when the kale plant is young.
Baby kale can also be wilted or cooked.
Cooking with Kale
There are many ways to eat this cruciferous vegetableboth raw and cooked.
It’s very easy to work with and it’s inexpensive, so it’s good for everyday meals.
EatingWell has amassaged kale recipeto guide you through the process.
The other option is to wilt it, which is somewhere between leaving it raw and cooking it.
EatingWell’sKale, Sausage & Pepper PastaandSkillet Lemon Chicken and Potatoes with Kaleboth showcase wilted kale very well.
As a bonus, they’re extremely easy to make.
No massaging is required; just drizzle the leaves with olive oil and bake.
