Superfood Spotlight: Kale
What You Should Know: It’s hip to be kale. This powerhouse is definitely having its time in the sun, and rightly so. Considered the king of leafy greens, kale is actually a member of the Brassica family, making it a closer relative to broccoli and brussels than spinach or romaine. It is easy to grow, which is why it has become a staple in so many home gardens across the globe. Kale played an important role in early European food systems dating as far back as 600 B.C., and was a staple in meals eaten by peasants during the Middle Ages. English settlers finally brought this ancient green across the pond in the 1800s, and as they say – the rest is history.
Why You Should Try It: Super-powered kale is hardly just a pretty face! Its celeb status as “healthiest vegetable on the planet” is for good reason. Just one cup of kale contains about 100% of your daily requirements for vitamins A, C and K, providing anti-inflammatory benefits as well as phenomenal cardiovascular support. It is also rich in lutein and zeaxanthin, which promote healthy eyesight. Not convinced yet? Kale is a great source of potassium, iron, phosphorus and manganese – as well as over 45 different varieties of antioxidant flavonoids that lend themselves to cancer prevention!
Let’s Get Together: The beauty of this superfood is that you don’t need to go to a specialty store or find a magical elixir to reap its benefits. Kale can be enjoyed no matter what your taste buds crave or what kind of lifestyle you lead: raw, baked, sauteed, or in liquid form (if you’re leafy-green shy, drinking fruit-sweetened green juice is a great way to go)! We’ve drummed up a few of our favorite kale recipes to help you find a kale-containing treat that works just for you…
- In the mood for a salad? Try our Tuscan Kale and Smoked Salmon Salad for a simple yet filling dinner, or PureMama’s Marinated Kale Salad for a side dish you’ll be craving daily.
- Want to begin your morning with a burst of green? This simple breakfast sautée will do the trick – or whip up one of our favorite green smoothies for a sweet start to your day.
- For a nutrient-packed pick-me-up no matter what time of day, munch on crunchy kale chips or pull out the juicer for the ultimate homemade green juice. No worries if you don’t have a juicer – or the time! – that is what Pressed Juicery is for! Greens 1, 2, 3 and 4 all give a good kale-packed punch!
