Kale becomes the new 'in' health food and a tasty trendy treat

Kale: a tasty, trendy treat

Samantha Greenbaum--With the health food craze spreading across the nation, people are constantly searching for new, nutrient-rich foods to add to their diet.  Whether vegetables, fruits, vitamins, or any other for of sustenance, many individuals are determined to find new foods loaded with health benefits.  Recently, this search has come to fruition with the new use of one of nature's healthiest snacks: kale.

A Leafy Green

While experiencing a surge in popularity in the West over the past decade, kale has been used by many civilizations throughout the centuries. During the Middle Ages, Europe saw kale as one of its only green vegetables. Russian traders sold kale in the 1800s, and kale cultivation grew in the UK during World War II due to its ease of cultivation.

As a leafy green, kale is full of vitamins and minerals imperative to a healthy functioning body. Kale possesses vitamins A, B, C, E, and K, and is a great source of choline, calcium, iron, and magnesium. Unlike other leafy greens, though, kale is extremely resilient and can be grown even during the cold winter months.

Green Cuisine

Because of its new popularity, kale has found its way into a variety of cookbooks and recipes. And while a healthy food, kale can be used to create a multitude of delicious dishes.

Like the related collard greens, kale is a side dish when boiled and lightly seasoned with herbs and pepper. It goes well next to mashed potatoes, and pairs elegantly with roasted pork or chicken. Diced kale can also go well with a host of ingredients. Mixed into a quinoa salad, layered among cheeses, and fried or scrambled alongside eggs are a few wonderful ways to incorporate kale into a healthy diet.

Some even add kale to fruit and vegetable smoothies, claiming the leafy texture of the green becomes fully blended into the beverage to create a tasty, healthy drink. Others have experimented with baking kale in the oven, creating a healthy kale snack with an appetizing crunch.

Kale in the media

And the people of the general public aren’t the only ones using kale to enrich their health. Many well-known celebrities believe kale to be one of the healthiest choices an individual can make for his or her health.

Angelina Jolie, Woody Harrelson, and Gwyneth Paltrow are just a few stars on the silver screen who eat kale to not only feel better, but to maintain the sleek physiques they require for days on the set. Celebrities Katy Perry and Jessica Alba also claim a love for the leafy green vegetable.

But it doesn’t stop there. Even celebrity detox advisor Terry Walters endorses kale. She lists dark leafy greens as one of her favorite food options, with kale topping the list.

A healthy dose of kale                                  

With all of the healthy benefits that kale has to offer, coupled with a taste that’s appealing to the palate, it’s no wonder that kale is quickly becoming the superfood of choice. Paired with a favorite dish, mixed into a smoothie, or simply eaten plain, kale is a healthy treat that’s sure to satisfy an appetite and build a healthier body.





Samantha Greenbaum is a health nut, weekend hiker, and aspiring chef.