O.k. there’s no denying it. Kale was deemed the darling of the veggie world in 2014. Loaded with vitamins and antioxidants, not to mention serious flavor, we’re all for celebrating the rise of this once lowly leafy green. With that perfectly evergreen color, Kale dishes naturally add a festive look to every holiday table.
Heartier than typical salad greens, kale salads are an ideal choice for potluck or buffet parties since they actually tenderize with a little additional time. Cooked kale dishes are best reserved for sit down dinners when they can be served hot.
There are a few hold outs that think kale’s just too bitter, but we know that’s just because they’ve never tasted it prepared just right. Reach for sweet, salty or acidic ingredients to balance out the flavor. (Though it really doesn’t take much.) From dainty and sweet to devilishly different, here are 3 ideas that will wow guests at any event.
Wilted Cranberry Almond Kale Salad: Shred a bunch of kale into thin ribbons, then toss with dried cranberries and toasted slivered almonds. Heat balsamic vinaigrette just until warm, then mix with kale until just wilted. Season with salt and black pepper and top with crumbled goat cheese and serve immediately.
Sauteed Kale with Zucchini and Pine Nuts: Coarsely chop a bunch of kale and two medium zucchini. Heat about 1 Tablespoon of olive oil in a large pan and add in the kale and zucchini. Allow to cook until zucchini begins to brown and kale is cooked through, tossing occasionally using tong. Season with salt and black pepper and mix in about ¼ cup of toasted pine nuts just before serving.
Double Bacon Kale Caesar: Shred a bunch of kale into 1-inch thick strips. Toss with a few tablespoons your favorite Caesar dressing. Skip the traditional croutons and mix in crispy pieces of chopped, cooked bacon and top with Pork Clouds by Bacon’s Heir.
Do you have a favorite kale recipe? Share it with us in the comments below.
