How to Massage Kale.

Serves 2 · Prep: 5 min

Make It

1. Strip the leaves from the stems of 1 bunch of kale and tear or shred into bite-size pieces.

2. Add 1 Tbsp olive oil, a pinch of sea salt, and a squeeze of lemon juice if you want it.

3. Massage with clean hands for 2 to 3 minutes, squeezing and rubbing the leaves against each other.

4. Stop when the leaves darken, soften and reduce by about a third.

Notes

• You will feel it change. The leaves go from stiff and squeaky to silky and dark green. That is done.

• Do not overdo it. Past three minutes the kale goes limp instead of tender.

• Curly kale needs this most. Baby kale does not need it at all, and Tuscan is tender enough that a quick massage is plenty.

• Massaged kale holds overnight, so unlike other greens it can be dressed ahead. Use it as the base of your No B.S. Salad, or serve it as a side salad with Tahini or Green Goddess.

• Counts as Non-Starchy Veggies at 2–3 cups.