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Dinosaur Kale

in The Too Busy to Diet Blog on October 3, 2014

Written by Claire Allen, graduate dietetic student at the University of Illinois at Chicago.

Lacinato Kale is a type of kale that also goes by the name of Tuscan, or Dinosaur kale.  The nickname “Dinosaur Kale” originates from the bumpy surface of the kale’s leaves resembling that of dinosaur skin.  This kale contains dark green, firm, deeply ridged leaves that are earthy and nutty in flavor.  Lacinato kale can be eaten raw in salads and sandwiches, or sautéed and added to pastas; it has a longer cooking time than other greens, but holds its shape well, making it a great addition to soups and stews.  Kale is a leafy cruciferous vegetable that contains high amounts of vitamins A, C and K, in addition to the minerals copper, potassium, iron, manganese and phosphorous.  A cup of fresh kale has approximately 40 calories, 3 grams of protein, and 2.6 grams of fiber.   In addition, kale contains a number of added antioxidant and anti-inflammatory health benefits.  Further, the fiber, potassium, vitamin B and C content all support heart health.  Try this healthy breakfast frittata recipe that incorporates lactinokale and can be prepared in less than 30 minutes.

Healthy Breakfast Frittata: http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=recipe&dbid=40