Plant Based Essentials: Leafy Greens

[Bring4th_Austin]

While kale might be expensive, a big benefit is that it is super easy to grow, and very prolific (especially in the right climates). A couple healthy kale plants in the right season are likely more than enough for one person who eats a lot of kale, as you continually harvest it throughout the season. Plus, there are some great varieties that you can grow that are difficult to find in at a grocery store (though rather common at farmer's markets). For people who don't like kale much, the Red Russian variety can be more appealing as it is very tender and very tasty. Great for raw kale dishes. And another bonus of growing it is that it will keep much longer than store-bought. I've been able to keep kale fresh in the crisper in the fridge for longer than a month.

I'll usually throw some kale in with my typical lentil, brown rice, and veggie dish. I will also use it in smoothies, but I tend to like spinach and Swiss chard more as it seems to blend much easier in my mid-range blender.

Bonus picture of some Red Russian kale and Swiss chard from my container garden last year (basil in the background)