Massaged Kale Salad

Greens are some of the most nutritious foods on Earth and one of the most missing foods in the average Americans diet. We all need to eat more! Kale is one of my favorites but honestly, I get a little bored with my "same old same old" steamed or sauteed version. My version of this massaged kale salad (based on The Farm School's chef, Cristina Garcia's recipe)  is quick, easy, different and DEE- LISH- US. Now, I know what you're thinking....raw kale....pass....but I promise- give it a try- it's sure to be a hit.  Hints for a successful recipe: slice the kale into very thin strips- the thinner they are, the tastier they are. Give those tough greens a good massage before eating- very relaxing for both the giver & the receiver. Fresh local kale almost always tastes better than kale from the grocery store so find it at the farmer's market if at all possible.

Greenlight's Massage Kale Salad
  

Prep time: 15 minutes (this is only if you are a very slow chopper)
Cook time: ZERO!
Yield: 4-6  servings

Ingredients
1 bunch Lacitano Kale
Massage Oil (recipe below)
1/4 cup toasted sunflower seeds
½ cup Crumbled Feta cheese
Sea Salt & Cracked Pepper to taste

Massage Oil
1/4 cup good quality olive oil
2 T apple cider vinegar
2 t raw local honey
1 clove garlic- minced (opt)
Mix together and adjust flavors based on your personal taste buds.

Directions
1.    Remove stems from kale and cut into thin strips- place in bowl
2.    Drizzle with massage oil (not too much!) and work it into the kale with your hands- this helps tenderize the greens!
3.    Toss in seeds and cheese. Taste for salt & pepper.
4.    Allow to sit approx 20- 30 minutes before serving (not necessary but better this way)
Variations
As with most of Greenlight's recipes, if you don't have the exact ingredients substitute what you do have. Goat or ricotta cheese would be a good choice. Pumpkin seeds or even slivered almonds. Use curly leaf kale if you can't get lacitano....be creative. Experiment with fresh herbs or try adding in your favorite ethnic spice.