Kale and Fennel Salad

It is really important for me to eat healthy when I am at work.  I love bring fresh salads.  This salad in particular is awesome.  It tastes better the longer it sits in the dressing so it perfect.  I sometimes even make it the night before.  Kale is supper nutritious and hearty so it keep you full. I can't emphasize enough how important it is to massage the kale.  Now seriously you have to get into it!  Normally kale can be very bitter but once massage the kale softens and takes in the flavor from the dressing.  Yum!

Kale:

Kale is incredibly rich in vitamin K.  This powerful antioxidant has be shown to help reduce risk in developing cancer.  Kale is also rich in vitamin A and C. It is very low calorie, 1 cup has about 33 calories.  Talk about superfood!

Kale and  Fennel Salad

1 bunch kale

1 fennel bulb

1/4 cup dried currants

1/4 cup walnuts

3 tbsp olive oil

2 tbsp good quality balsamic vinegar, the sweeter the better

Salt and Pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Shaved fennel using mandolin or slice very thinly using a sharp knife.  Rinse kale and remove stems. Cut in bit sized pieces.

2. Combine all ingredients, except walnuts, in a mixing bowl.  Now to the most important part. Massage Massage Massage!  

3.  Mix in walnuts. You can also add some parmesan cheese to make it a little more rich.  Leave for at least 30 minutes to allow the kale to absorb the flavors. Enjoy.

*** If you want it a little more creamy I would add 1/2 an avocado.