Bite Of Minnesota: Raw Kale Salad
Over the last few years, I've run into several kale fanatics who have the ability and desire to eat kale several times per day. I've looked in awe at these folks and tried my best at finding my favorite kale recipes. So far, I have been successful in incorporating kale into smoothies, soups, sautés, dinners and chips. I've heard a lot about raw kale salads, but hadn't taken the time to try it until recently.
While reading through some local blogs, I came across a recipe titled, "Raw Kale Salad for Hippies" from Ali at Green & Lean and knew I had to give it a shot. The recipe instructs you to massage the kale, which tenderizes it and makes it easy to consume. Trust me, you wo''t feel like you're choking down tough greens if you take the time to massage the kale. I found that I didn't need any dressing for this salad, but if you prefer to use dressing, vinaigrette would work well.
Raw Kale Salad
Adapted from Green & Lean
(serves 2)
1 bunch dinosaur (or Tuscan) kale
½ tsp kosher salt
½ green apple, finely diced
¼ cup dried cranberries
¼ cup chopped pistachios
2 tbsp crumbled blue cheese (feta or goat cheese work well, too)
2 tbsp grated Parmesan
Remove stems and ribs from the kale. Cut into pieces and place in a large bowl with salt. Massage the kale for two minutes, rubbing the salt into the kale pieces. Let sit 10 minutes and drain if needed.
Add apple, cranberries, pistachios, blue cheese and Parmesan cheese and toss to combine. Serve within 24 hours for best results.