kale

Written by: Angelique Hicks

Recipes by: Vitality Consultants, LLC

Kale, kale everywhere!  Only a few short years ago I didn’t even know what this beautiful leafy green was, and quite frankly, I didn’t want to know.  Now this crunchy little guy is all over the place!  Dare I say that I even saw a kale salad on the McDonalds menu???  That is progress!

When my health coach first introduced me to the idea of eating kale,  I was like, awwwwe man…ick.  I was gonna have to force this one down.  Don’t get me wrong, I am a very adventurous eater and usually  I am one to try anything once, but this wasn’t a one time shot she was asking for.  It was a suggestion to add kale into my diet everyday or at least every week.  Seriously??  Why, in all that is good and delicious, would I want to do that?!  Well, let me tell ya….

I don’t know about you, but I am sick and tired of hearing about people, especially those close to me, coming down with cancer.   Two words: Over. It.  The good news? Kale contains numerous cancer-fighting substances and is loaded with compounds that are believed to have PROTECTIVE effects against cancer.  That’s right, cancer protection in a leaf.  Pretty cool, huh?  I think so.

Kale is THE most nutrient dense food on the planet.  Why is that important?  Most of us are nutrient deficient.  Meaning, we are in the red when it comes to giving our body the proper nutrients to function optimally.  If we aren’t giving our body the necessary items to do it’s thing, the likely hood of disease is higher.  If you want to get into the black, nutritionally speaking, eating kale is a great way to dramatically increase the nutrient content of your diet.

If cancer prevention isn’t enough, this nutrient dense food also aids in weight loss!  Kale is very low in calories, but still provides significant bulk that helps you feel full.  And despite the fact that this leafy green is low in cals, it contains protein and fiber, both considered important nutrients when it comes to losing weight.  A cancer fighter AND a weight loss aid? Kale has it goin’ on!

But Angelique, how in the heck do I use kale in recipes?  Isn’t it tough and tasteless?  Why, no dear reader, it’s actually neither of those things if prepared properly.  To help you transition into your love of kale, here is a link to my favorite massaged kale caesar salad: http://www.annies-eats.com/2013/04/29/massaged-kale-caesar-salad/.  This is a great recipe that is super easy and amazingly delicious!   This is only a jumping off point though. The possibilities are endless.  You can put kale in your smoothies, soups, salads, stews, eggs, and wraps.  It is versatile and holds up really well in most dishes.

So hop on the kale train and take it for a ride!  You may find that it actually becomes your new favorite vegetable when you try this delicious anti-inflammatory recipe.  I know it did for me!  Toot toot!!

 

kale and mushroom skillet

Kale and Mushroom Skillet

Over time we've learned that kale can reduce the risk of chronic eye diseases such as cataracts and age-related macular degeneration. Keep eating kale to support eye health. Try this vegetable saute as a delicious, nutritious side dish.
Course Side Dish

Ingredients
  

  • 1 Tbsp olive oil
  • 4 oz mushrooms sliced
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • 4 cups baby kale
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  • Add mushrooms and cook about 4 minutes, tossing frequently.
  • Toss garlic into mushrooms and add kale, seasoned with salt and pepper to taste.  Continue to toss until kale is just wilted, about 1 minute.  Serve hot.
Keyword Anti-Inflammatory, Kale, Mushrooms, Side Dish

#protectioninaleaf, #fightcancer, #wellness, #feedyourvitality, #versatile, #weightloss

 

If you’re interested in an anti-inflammatory lifestyle and more information and recipes like this, check out The Official Anti-Inflammatory Diet Masterclass.  Or email us at info@VitalityConsultantsLLC.com for more details.

 

Get The Official Anti-Inflammatory Foods List Here