Where all my kale heads at? I feel like whenever you say you are vegan/vegetarian, people automatically think “oh, so all you eat is kale chips?” I mean… yeah, most of us do… because kale chips are incredible. But don’t all you meat-eaters like kale, too? It’s not just for plant-eaters. It’s one of the world’s healthiest foods, and it doesn’t have a strong taste/flavor. It’s just like spinach, and just as awesome (if not more!)
So naturally, I like to substitute/add kale to dishes whenever I can, because it is also dirt cheap. At Price Right (if you are local), it’s 99 cents a lb. Have you felt kale?? It’s basically light as a feather! You get SO MUCH KALE for soooo little money.
While I love my escarole and beans, I recently upgraded my greens and beans with kale. It’s the star of this meal, and with the addition of extra garlic… ughhhhghhghgh. It’s fast, flavorful, and just soooo healthy for you. Plus, beans = protein. Hey, there it is! Found the protein that plant-eaters eat! ;)
Okay, green machines. Enough rambling and more recipe. I think you’ll enjoy this twist on an old Italian classic.
The Recipe
You will need:
- 1 head kale (I don’t measure but approx 5-6 cups? It wilts down.)
- 3 tbs olive oil
- 5 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 can cannellini beans, not drained
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Water, as needed
To make:
- Prep kale by tearing the leaves off the stems and rinsing thoroughly under water. Drain and set aside.
- In a large pan over high heat, add olive oil and minced garlic.
- Add kale leaves (it’s good if they are still wet) and add entire can of beans. Sprinkle with salt and pepper, and add about 1/4 cup water.
- Cover and allow to wilt over high heat – once wilted, turn down to a simmer. Add a little more water as necessary if it starts to look dry (won’t need too much, probably).
- Simmer for 20-30 minutes, and add more salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve hot!
This stuff stays really good for at least 5 days. I always make a huge batch on the weekend and keep it on hand for lunch and quick dinner. One of my favorite ways to enjoy it is with a huuuuge piece of Italian bread. Dunk in the garlicky broth, and you’ll see why this is a household staple.
And hey, how easy to get all the kale into your diet? xx bianca
