Kale Is Cool

Eating seasonally not only saves money, but fruits and veggies always taste better when they’re in season. That’s why we’re celebrating kale this month. Kale plants can stand up to winter’s cold temperatures, so many growers leave them in the ground after the first freeze; in fact, the leaves become sweeter after one or two frosts. Here we share 14 inspiring ways to cook with this winter green. 

Herbed Turkey Scallopine with Lemon Dijon Kale

Fresh dill and Dijon pack this turkey scallopine with mouthwatering flavor, while kale provides both a fiber and antioxidant boost. It’s a balanced meal with less than 200 calories per serving!

>> Get the recipe here.

Kale Artichoke Dip

“This particular recipe is a favorite of mine to make for my daughter when I want to do something decadent but also nutritious for her. It’s so delicious that it makes her unafraid of vegetables.” – Erin McKenna

>> Get the recipe here.

Chicken Soup with Sweet Potatoes, Kale & Mushrooms

Our healthy take of the chicken soup will have you feeling better in no time.

>> Get the recipe here.

Kale Salad with Blueberry Ginger Dressing

The ultimate anti-aging memory food, blueberries contain compounds that help brain neurons communicate more effectively.

>> Get the recipe here.

Creamy Kale Dip with Za’atar Pita Chips

A sprinkling of Za’atar, an aromatic Middle Eastern blend of herbs and spices, gives these baked pita chips addictive flavor without the need for a ton of oil or salt.

>> Get the recipe here.

White Turkey Chili with Kale

This lighter take on chili is made without tomatoes, leaving room for fiber-rich greens. We’ve kept the spices mild to please many palates, but you can easily add more chile powder if you prefer a spicier dish – here at the CE office, we love this meal smothered in hot sauce!

>> Get the recipe here.

Roasted Grape and Salmon Kale Salad with Cider Maple Vinaigrette & Gorgonzola

To keep your prep quick, here we roast the salmon at the same time as red grapes – and we do it all on one baking sheet for quick cleanup. The cooked fruit gives the salad a sweet-tart tang that balances the richness of the cheese and fish. Sprouts or microgreens make a nice garnish on this dish.

>> Get the recipe here. 

Honey Mustard-Glazed Salmon with Lentils & Kale

Homemade honey-mustard sauce beats the processed varieties any day. Complement your seasoned salmon with brown lentils, which are easy to find and hold their shape when cooked.

>> Get the recipe here.

Tuscan Kale & Roasted Pear Salad with Buttermilk Dressing

Maple-roasted pears and cashews adorn this hearty kale salad with chicken and a rich buttermilk dressing.

>> Get the recipe here.

Cheesy Chicken & Kale Quesadillas with Creamy Guacamole

These cheesy quesadillas are packed with protein and healthy fat.

>> Get the recipe here.

Spicy Peri Peri-Roasted Chicken with Sweet Potatoes & Kale

Our peri peri-roasted chicken employs Portuguese cooking techniques but uses African ingredients. You’ll love the tangy, spicy sauce served alongside sweet potatoes and kale.

>> Get the recipe here. 

Baked Ziti with Creamy Kale & Sausage

Perfectly portable for a potluck or a straight-to-table trip from the oven, this creamy kale and sausage pasta dish has just 338 calories!

>> Get the recipe here. 

Broccoli, Kale & Cheddar Quiche with Savory Quinoa Crust

A cheesy quinoa crust makes a delicious, higher-protein swap for the traditional flour and butter quiche crust. Swap out the Tuscan kale in the filling for baby kale or spinach if you prefer a milder flavor.

>> Get the recipe here. 

Butternut Squash Lasagna with Kale Pesto

We’re always on the lookout for fresh new ways to enjoy kale, and this twist on pesto might just be our favorite yet! Here, we’ve layered it into a veggie-packed lasagna as a fun, nutrient-rich alternative to tomato sauce.

>> Get the recipe here.