Farmer Foodshare delivers fresh produce each week, and what’s on the truck depends on what’s in season here in NC. In honor of Eat Your Veggies month, we’re highlighting just a sampling of what you might find on a truck for the month of June. First up: versatile, healthy, delicious KALE!
So, what is kale?
Kale is a member of the brassica family (like cabbage, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts) and is thought to have descended from wild cabbage. Kale has long been one of the most popular greens due to its comparatively mild taste. Varieties include curly green, lacinato (also called dinosaur or Tuscan kale) and Russian red kale.
Did you know?
Kale has been cultivated over 2000 years and was the most commonly eaten green in Europe until the end of the Middle Ages!
How do you eat it?
Good question! We asked YOU how you like to eat your veggies, and you had great responses!
Jessica G. of Durham had this creative suggestion: “Pesto! You can use any greens—my people like kale and parsley best—and any nut. We usually have pecans or almonds on hand. Add garlic, olive oil, cheese is optional, and my secret ingredient is about a tablespoon of maple syrup!”
Beth P. in Durham gave us her tip for getting her kids to eat their veggies: “Leafy greens are great in smoothies—my kids will drink them as long as they get to push the buttons on the machine, and there’s fruit besides.”
Here are some ideas and recipes from the Farmer Foodshare archives:
Simple Sautéed Kale - Brown an onion and 2 cloves of garlic in olive oil. Add roughly cut pieces of washed kale and sauté until color brightens and leaves become tender, just a couple of minutes. Season to taste and serve while warm.
Stuffed Sweet Potatoes and Greens and Beans
Want to know more? Our Veggie Fact Sheet on Kale has tons of recipes, nutritional info, facts and more!
We have a whole resource guide full of veggie fact sheets and recipes in English and Spanish!