Today, I’m excited to introduce you to Lacinato Kale, also known as Tuscan Kale. This heirloom variety, beloved in Italian cuisine, features dark, savoyed, and tender leaves that are perfect for creating delicious, nutritious dishes.
Why Lacinato Kale?
Lacinato Kale is not only packed with nutrients, but its tender leaves offer a delightful texture and rich flavor. Whether you're using it young at 30 days or mature at 65 days, this versatile green is a fantastic addition to your kitchen.
Why add Extra Virgin Olive Oil to your salad?
Lacinato kale and extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) are a powerful combination when it comes to boosting your absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. Here's why:
Lacinato kale: This leafy green is packed with fat-soluble vitamins like vitamins A, K, and E, as well as folate that helps our body form red blood cells and convert food into energy. However, our bodies can't absorb these vitamins directly without the presence of fat.
EVOO: Extra virgin olive oil is rich in healthy fats, especially monounsaturated fats. These fats act as a carrier, helping your intestines absorb the fat-soluble vitamins present in lacinato kale.
Essentially, the healthy fats in EVOO unlock the potential of the fat-soluble vitamins in lacinato kale.
Additional Benefits
Increased bioavailability: By consuming them together, you ensure your body gets the most out of the vitamins in the kale.
Enhanced nutrient profile: EVOO itself contains vitamin E, another fat-soluble vitamin. So, you're getting a double dose of these essential nutrients.
So next time you're enjoying a kale salad, drizzle it with some high-quality EVOO to maximize the absorption of those beneficial vitamins!
Simple and Delicious Lacinato Kale Salad Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 bunch of Lacinato Kale (Tuscan Kale), stems removed and leaves chopped
- 1/4 cup Papa Vince Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 2 tablespoons vinegar (balsamic or apple cider)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: shaved Parmesan cheese, toasted pine nuts, or cherry tomatoes
Instructions:
- Prepare the Kale: Wash the kale thoroughly. Remove the stems and chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces.
- Massage the Kale: In a large bowl, drizzle a small amount of olive oil over the kale and gently massage it with your hands for a few minutes. This helps to soften the leaves and enhance their flavor.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil and vinegar. Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine and Toss: Pour the dressing over the massaged kale and toss well to ensure the leaves are evenly coated.
- Optional Add-Ins: For an extra touch, you can add shaved Parmesan cheese, toasted pine nuts, or cherry tomatoes to your salad.
- Serve and Enjoy: Your delicious Lacinato Kale salad is ready to serve! Enjoy it as a healthy side dish or a light main course.
Dive deeper into flavor!
Want more tasty and healthful recipes? Visit our website for more ideas on how to use our products to enhance your cooking.
Let’s embrace the flavors of Italy and enjoy the benefits of nature in the tastiest way possible!
