Spring Favorites: Kale

Dear Fellow Gardeners,

As spring continues to unfold, we find ourselves surrounded by nature's bounty, ripe for enjoyment. In this edition, we celebrate the essence of spring and explore the versatile and nutritious world of kale. Let's embark on a journey of culinary delight and gardening inspiration!

1. Spring Favorites:

Spring is a time of renewal, both in our gardens and on our plates. Here are some delicious springtime favorites to savor:

• Asparagus: Delicate and tender, asparagus is a quintessential spring vegetable. Whether roasted, grilled, or steamed, its fresh flavor is a true delight.

• Strawberries: Sweet, juicy, and bursting with flavor, strawberries are a beloved springtime treat. Enjoy them fresh on their own, or incorporate them into desserts, salads, or smoothies.

• Spinach: Nutrient-rich and versatile, spinach is a staple of spring cuisine. Add it to salads, omelets, pastas, or soups for a burst of vibrant green goodness.

2. Spotlight on Kale:

Kale, with its robust flavor and hearty texture, takes center stage in spring gardens and kitchens alike. Packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, kale is a nutritional powerhouse that deserves a place on your plate. Whether you prefer curly kale, Lacinato (also known as dinosaur kale), or red Russian kale, this leafy green offers endless possibilities for culinary creativity.

Recipe: Lemony Kale Salad

Ingredients:

• 1 bunch kale, stems removed and leaves thinly sliced

• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil

• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

• 1 garlic clove, minced

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts

• Optional: sliced strawberries or dried cranberries for sweetness

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.

2. In a large mixing bowl, add the sliced kale. Pour the dressing over the kale and massage it into the leaves with your hands for a few minutes until the kale starts to soften.

3. Let the kale sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

4. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and toasted pine nuts to the kale and toss to combine.

5. Optional: Garnish the salad with sliced strawberries or dried cranberries for added sweetness.

6. Serve and enjoy!

3. Gardening Tips for Kale:

• Planting: Kale thrives in cool weather, making it an excellent choice for spring and fall gardens. Sow seeds or transplant seedlings into well-drained soil with plenty of sunlight.

• Harvesting: Harvest kale leaves when they are young and tender for the best flavor and texture. Remove the outer leaves as needed, allowing the inner leaves to continue growing.

• Pest Control: Keep an eye out for common pests such as aphids and cabbage worms, especially during the cooler months. Use organic pest control methods like hand-picking or spraying with neem oil to keep them at bay.

As you embrace the flavors and freshness of spring, may your gardens flourish and your plates overflow with nourishing delights. Happy gardening and bon appétit!