Vegetariabean

Being a vegetarian for more than eleven years, people are always asking me...BUT WHAT DO YOU EAT? Hopefully this blog will give readers some insight into the world of vegetarianism, and inspire those teetering but afraid of lack of food choices, to take that final step.

Wednesday, January 11, 2012

Kale. It's Delicious, Nutritious, and I'm Obsessed with it.

I might be addicted to kale. Considering it is so good for you, who can complain? It has a ridiculous amount of vitamin K, and also has really high amounts of vitamin A and C. Kale also gives you calcium and iron among other things. Here are three ways to eat it...

Kale Caesar Salad
Why not use kale instead of romaine lettuce? Chop up some thin strips of washed kale, removing the tough stems. Add your favorite caesar dressing (I've been using Trader Joe's), some croutons, parmesan cheese, freshly ground pepper, and some pumpkin seeds.  If you want the kale to be a little softer, you can mix the kale with dressing and let it sit for 15 minutes or so before you add the other ingredients.


Massaged Kale Salad
Cut and wash your kale and remove any tough stems. Place into a bowl with a bit of olive oil and some salt. I used this delicious citrus salt that my Aunt Dale made for Christmas. Massage the olive oil and salt into the kale for a minute or so (this is also great for your skin!).  Next add some chopped apples, dried cranberries, and toasted almond slices. Add a bit of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice.  You can add anything in this salad, sometimes I also add chopped green olives, cucumbers, radishes, and cooked lentils.  If you want to make it into a meal you can add some cooked quinoa.  Adjust the seasonings to your liking.  This will stay good in the refrigerator for a few days. Sorry I don't have a picture of this.

Sauteed Kale with Mushrooms
In a frying pan heat up a teaspoon of olive oil and some red pepper flakes.  When the oil is hot, add about 4 sliced white button mushrooms (by the way, never ever wash mushrooms, just wipe with a damp cloth before slicing) and a tablespoon of earth balance natural buttery spread.  Cook mushrooms until they start to turn a beautiful brown color. Don't stir mushrooms the whole time!!!!!! You only need to stir them once or twice, otherwise they will not cook properly.  Next add two huge handfuls of cleaned chopped kale with tough stems removed.  Add another tablespoon of earth balance or some more olive oil, a shake of salt, garlic powder, and freshly ground pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes until just tender and stirring occasionally.


Coming soon.....Penne with Kale and Butternut Squash!

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