Quick Smoky Kale Salad Recipes

THE BEST KALE SALAD

Steps:

• Place kale in a large serving bowl; add 1 teaspoon olive oil and 2 pinches salt. Gently massage the oil and salt into kale. Set aside to allow kale to soften, about 10 minutes.
• Combine 1/4 cup olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, cumin, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper in a plastic or glass container with a lid. Cover container and vigorously shake until dressing is light yellow and evenly combined.
• Layer carrots, roasted corn, tortilla chips, almonds, and smoked cheese on top of kale. Drizzle dressing over salad. Mix salad using tongs to evenly distribute. Gently stir eggs into salad.

SMOKY QUICK-COOKED KALE

Steps:

• Remove tough stems and center ribs from kale. Stack half of the leaves and roll into a cigar shape, then cut crosswise into very thin strips. Repeat with remaining leaves.
• Heat oil in a large skillet over medium high heat until hot, then add shallot and cook, stirring occasionally, until slightly softened, about 2 minutes. Add garlic and pimenton and cook, stirring frequently, until garlic is softened, about 1 minute.
• Add kale and cook, tossing very frequently, until tender and bright green, about 5 minutes. Stir in lime juice and salt and pepper to taste.

SMOKY BRAISED KALE WITH TOMATO

Steps:

• Place a large, heavy-bottomed, high-sided pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat and add olive oil. When it shimmers, add onions and garlic and cook until they soften and begin to turn translucent, about 5 to 7 minutes.
• Add tomato paste and smoked paprika, reduce heat to medium, and cook, stirring frequently, until the paste begins to caramelize, about 5 to 7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper, then add stock and vinegar, and allow to come to a boil.
• Add half the kale, cover, and cook for a minute or two, until it wilts. Repeat with remaining kale. Stir to incorporate the onion mixture into the soft kale and simmer until tender, 20 to 30 minutes, partly covered. Season to taste with salt and pepper, drizzle with a little more vinegar, and serve.