In Season: Kale
Kale is trending year-round, but its peak harvest season is September and October.
Kale photo by deedavee easyflow via Flickr/Creative Commons
Stepping into a big box grocery store, it’s easy to think that all produce grows all year round—but that’s hardly the case. In this series, we’ll highlight one in-season produce pick a week.
Kale
Nutrition: One cup of chopped kale has more Vitamin C than an orange, more calcium than a glass of milk, and more Vitamin A than any other leafy green.
Why that matters: Vitamin C keeps your tissues and immune system strong, while vitamin A and calcium aid in bone growth and formation. Kale is also packed with phytonutrients, which help maintain healthy vision.
Where to find it: As kale’s peak harvesting season approaches, expect to see even more of it at local farmers’ markets and grocery stores. The Boston Public Market has a slew of vendors touting creative kale products, including kale juice.
Five kale recipes:
1. Kale Caesar Salad
via Anne Burrell
It’s hard not to love a good Caesar salad–and this one is completely guilt-free. Replacing iceberg lettuce with crispy kale will keep your bowl heartier and healthier, with the same classic taste.
2. Kale-Apple Smoothie
via Real Simple
Before you wince at the idea of a veggie smoothie, try blending this delicious combo. The sweetness of the apple disguises the kale’s earthy taste.
3. Kale Guacamole
via Healthy Recipe Ecstasy
This mixture of kale, avocado, garlic, and jalapeno packs a flavorful punch while sneaking in plenty of healthy fats. Plus, bringing a dish of kale guac and chips is a surefire way to be the trendiest guest at a potluck.
4. Curried Kale with Coconut
via Real Simple
Fall is here, but it’s not too late to sweeten your dish with a dash of summery coconut. All it takes is a few toasted seasonings, lime juice, and 10 to 20 minutes.
5. Parmesan Pepper Curly Kale Chips
via Epicurious
This recipe is just as addictive as potato chips, without the excess oil and sodium. While store-bought kale chips tend to run on the pricey side, making them at home can be done in an inexpensive pinch, using only five ingredients.
