Kale is not only packed with nutrients and a wonderful seasonal veg that is best eaten during the colder months in the UK, it's also very versatile. Throw it into salads, frittatas or soups, blend it into pesto or use it top your pizza, kale is a great veg to fall back on if you've got little else in your fridge. Cavolo nero or chard are also good alternatives for kale. Here are 5 of our favourite kale recipes to inspire you.
Pan-Fried Pumpkin Gnocchi with Kale & Almond Pesto from Green by Elly Pear
The chunkiness of the kale and almonds make an amazing pesto here, pulsed in a blender with fresh coriander, olive oil, garlic and lemon juice. Delicious tossed through homemade gnocchi.
Superfood Salad with Miso and Tahini Dressing from Proper Healthy Food by Nick Knowles
Kale, butternut squash, tenderstem broccoli and pomegranate make up this colourful, warming winter salad. Nick Knowles uses raw kale to brilliant effect, softening it by tossing it with a zingy tahini and miso dressing. This is a great way to soften kale's tough leaves without cooking them.
Order a copy of Proper Healthy Food here.
Kale Crisps from The Fit Foodie by Derval O'Rourke
Making your own kale crisps couldn't be easier! Toss with chilli and olive oil, then bake in the oven for 10 minutes. Job done!
Order a copy of The Fit Foodie here.
Chorizo & Kale Flatbread from Ruby Tandoh's Crumb: The Baking Book by Ruby Tandoh
Kale steals the show on this epic flatbread paired with rich, smoky chorizo. Ruby says; "the kale essentially fries in the oil from the meat, the once-virtuous greens growing crisp, salty and delicious". We're sold.
Get your copy of Ruby Tandoh's Crumb here.
Kale Soup from Eat Beautiful by Wendy Rowe
A delicious, nourishing meal, this sweet green soup teams kale with leeks, fennel and spinach – easy to make, and great for either lunch or supper.