Recipe by Doug DiPasquale, Holistic Nutritionist
Kale is one of the most nutritionally-dense of all the leafy green vegetables. While not served raw, this quick cooking method preserves most of the vitamins including vitamin K, A, E, B3, 6, 12 and vitamin C. Although its bitter taste can be off-putting to some, here we add a little mineral rich maple syrup to the kale to counteract this. The sweet and bitter combination is so tasty it will have even the diehard greens hater asking for seconds.
Directions for: Kale and Walnut Salad
Ingredients
2 bunch of kale, washed, stems removed and torn into bite sized pieces
1 tsp dijon mustard
cup organic extra virgin olive oil
2 Tbsp organic maple syrup (try for B or C grades as they contain more minerals)
a splash of apple cider vinegar
1 cup walnuts
a pinch or two of unrefined sea salt
Directions
1. While kale is still wet from being washed place in a hot pan with a lid for about 30 seconds (pan needs to be quite hot before putting kale in). This process will steam the kale with the water still on the leaves. Turn kale with tongs once while it cooks. After 30 seconds, remove kale to a bowl of cold water (use ice if you have it) to immediately halt the cooking process. Stir and let sit for 1 minute. Squeeze kale lightly in your hands to remove the excess water or use a salad spinner. Loosen leaves and place in a large bowl.
2. In a smaller bowl, combine dijon, vinegar, maple syrup and salt. Using a whisk, add the organic olive oil slowly in a thin stream while whisking contents vigorously. The dressing should emulsify (thicken up) as you pour. Set aside.
3. Place walnuts on a baking sheet and toast in the oven or a toaster oven on 325F for 7 minutes or until golden on the inside. Allow to cool. Chop nuts into small pieces and sprinkle over kale.
4. Pour dressing over kale and toss well.Enjoy.
See more: Steam, Salad, Vegetables, North American