The concept behind “massaging” kale with salt, lemon juice and olive oil is that the kale leaves will soften and relax, not just because you are rubbing them with the citrus juice and oil, but because the acid in the juice helps breaks down fibers in the kale and makes it taste sweeter.
Even your kale deserves a good massage. Any type of kale will work well with this recipe — try them all to find the one you like best!
1 bunch Nash’s kale, any type
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
De-stem one bunch of Nash’s kale and break the leaves into bite-sized pieces. Mix them with salt and lemon juice. Massage the leaves thoroughly for about 5 minutes, then add olive oil and massage for 1 minute more. The kale should be noticeably softer and darker. You could also add honey or maple syrup if you prefer a slightly sweeter salad. Yes, your hands will be oily, but your kale will love you for it!
Toss kale leaves with:
• Toasted nuts (pine nuts, almonds, pecans)
• Dried cherries, currants, or cranberries
• Grated Parmesan or Romano cheese, or crumbled Feta
• Sprouted quinoa or cooked whole Nash’s triticale or wheat berries
• Sliced radishes, baby white turnips, cucumbers, or zucchini