Kale Slaw

For Memorial Day, if you're looking for a side-dish to bring to the cookout that won't compromise the work you've been doing to get ready for bathing-suit season, this is it! Not only is Kale full of nutrients such as beta carotene, vitamin C and calcium, but this slaw has no mayo or sugar. I have two variations of dressing that I will use depending on what else is being served, but the veggie bases remains the same.

I bunch kale, chopped

1 large carrot, shredded

1/3 cup chopped red onion

1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Combine all ingredients and toss with one of the dressings below. Let sit for at least 20 minutes before serving. 

Dressing 1

I make this if we're having a main course/meat that is sweet, like barbecue or salmon, or heavy, like burgers or brats. The mustard provides a nice contrast and holds up to rich foods with bold flavors.

Whisk together:

2 T. Dijon mustart

2 T. cider vinegar

2 T. olive oil

salt and pepper to taste

Dressing 2

I make this if we're having something lighter, like fish tacos, shrimp or grilled chicken. The citrus juice brings out the flavor in these lighter meats.

Whisk together:

2 T. olive oil

2 t. lemon juice

1 1/2 T. orange juice

salt and pepper to taste

Roasted Butternut Squash and Kale Stew

Comfort food has never been so healthy! Spicy curry and sweet butternut squash make a great combo. Roast the butternut squash in advance to make this quick to prepare.

Inspired by Martha Stewart Living's Red Lentil and Squash Curry Soup.

1 butternut squash, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes

3 T. olive oil, divided

1 medium onion, chopped

4 garlic cloves, minced

fresh ginger, minced (no more than the garlic)

1 T. curry powder

4 cups vegetable broth

1 cup red lentils, rinsed

2 cups chopped Kale, Collards or other hearty greens

salt and pepper to taste

On a baking sheet, toss squash with 1 1/2 T. olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast at 425 degrees for 40 minutes or until tender. Heat remaining 1 1/2 T. olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onion, garlic and ginger until tender. Add curry powder and cook for one more minute, or until fragrant. Add vegetable broth and lentils. Bring to a boil and then simmer, covered, for 5 minutes. Add kale and cook for another 5 minutes. Stir in roasted squash with any pan juices and cook for another minute until warmed throughout. Season with salt to taste and serve hot.

BEV NOTE: Roasty stout or porter ale