Kale has become a staple ingredient in the world of healthy eating. But because of its naturally tough texture and slightly bitter taste, preparing kale for a salad requires a bit of know-how. Here are a few key tips to transform your kale from a tough leaf into a tender, flavorful addition to any salad.
Selecting the Right Kale
There are several varieties of kale, but the most common ones you’ll find at the store are curly kale and lacinato (dinosaur) kale. Both are great for salads, but lacinato tends to be a bit softer and less bitter.
Massaging the Kale
Here’s the most important secret to tender kale: massaging it. This might sound odd, but it’s an essential step. Drizzle a little olive oil over your chopped kale and sprinkle it with a pinch of salt. Then, with clean hands, gently rub the leaves between your fingers. Massage for about 2-3 minutes until the leaves start to soften and darken. This process breaks down the tough cellulose structure, making the kale more tender and less bitter.
Dressing
Finally, add your dressing to the massaged kale and let it sit for a bit before serving. This can also help soften the leaves even more and infuse them with flavor.
