I’ve just returned from Dublin on what can only be described as a meticiulously and brilliantly organised hen do by my amazing maid of honour. From escape rooms, to spa treatments, to incredible food, cocktail classes and a whole lot of singing – it was a memorable few days! Safe to say as the wedding is in a short 6 days, this week is all about being super healthy and making sure I feel the best I can when Sunday comes around!
What better than to get cooking with one of my favourite ingredients – Kale! I’ve searched blogs, websites and cooking platforms to find 8 of my very favourite kale recipes, and I plan to try and conquer them all in the next few days!
A few little facts for you about this superfood;
A single cup of raw Kale contains:
206% of the RDA of Vitamin A.
A staggering 684% of the RDA of Vitamin K.
134% of the RDA of Vitamin C.
That, along with its wealth of other vitamins and minerals, provides the justification for it being ranked the number 1 superfood time and time again in recent years. It’s one of most densely nutritious vegetables available and although its calorie content is barely existent, there’s no disputing it leaves you feeling full and satisfied after just one portion.
Knowing what’s nutritious for the body is great, but it doesn’t necessarily mean we know what to do with it! Should it make the base of a salad itself or is it more suited for a side dish? The good news is ”“ all of the above is doable and as delicious as the next!
Here are my top 8 recipes using kale, and they’re ALL cooking or eating it in a different way! That’s your next weeks’ dinners done and dusted, you can thank me later ;)
This is part of my Savoir Flair series all about health, fitness and food!
Crispy bites of wholesome Kale that you can dress with a variety of toppings. Have ”˜em salty, spicy or just plain and tasty! Kids (and adults!) will never know the difference.
Recipe: http://www.marthastewart.com/1050472/baked-kale-chips
2. Kale and Apple Cake
It just keeps getting better and better right!? Move over dates and bananas, there’s a new contender in the ring. Gooey, indulgent and full of goodness. Don’t click too quick!
Recipe: http://veggiedesserts.co.uk/kale-and-apple-cake-with-apple-icing/
3. Detox Soup
Like your cold-pressed morning green juices, but better. Get all the nutrients from kale and other superfood veggies in this warming soup recipe.
Recipe: http://detoxdiy.com/green-detox-soup-recipe
5. Asian-Inspired Kale Salad
The key to the perfect salad is always the dressing. Cookie and Kate does a lovely simple kale and edamame salad with an even better dressing! Super quick and easy.
Recipe: http://cookieandkate.com/2013/chopped-kale-salad-with-edamame-carrot-and-avocado/
6. Kale and Goats Cheese Pizza
Let’s face it, any pizza is a good pizza but we don’t want just good! Creamy goats cheese and nutritious, rich kale all rolled into a crusty pizza base? Erm, yes please!
Recipe:: http://www.theroastedroot.net/beet-pesto-pizza-kale-goat-cheese/
Or, if you fancy having it in the crust itself ”“ take a look at this one:
http://www.sweetashoney.co/kale-pizza-crust/
7. Kale and Quinoa Cakes
In love with these little gems! Gluten-free and vegan and packed full of goodness. Top with a burger bun for the ultimate veggie burger!
Recipe: http://www.mydarlinglemonthyme.com/2014/06/fava-bean-quinoa-cakes-with-kale-ginger.html#more
8. Kale Breakfast Omelette
I love the idea of this. Omelettes are found on many a health-inspired breakfast table but adding in some chopped kale brings it to a whole new level. This recipe has a few other additions which makes a winning morning start.
Kale pesto
Basil is never going out of fashion but that doesn’t mean there can’t be another contender. Kale pesto has more of a punch and not to mention it’s nutritional value far outweighs it’s other pesto friends!
Recipe: http://www.aspicyperspective.com/kale-pesto-recipe/2/
What’s your favourite thing to make using Kale?
LLG X
