Kale is definitely the popular kid right now. It's at the top of every list of healthy foods you should be eating in 2015, chefs are incorporating it into their menus in creative ways, it's affordable, readily available and kale gets even better in the dead of winter.

Kale is a member of a category of plant foods that are linked to a lower risk of certain cancers. It's also high in nutrients you need for bone health - vitamins A and K and calcium - plus it delivers almost a day's worth of vitamin C.

From chips to smoothies to salads to soups, kale is as versatile as it beneficial to your body. There are some whispers in food circles that kale is just a passing fad. But we think it's here to stay.

In our latest video, Owner/Chef Shelley Young demonstrates two different kale staples that are healthy and tasty.

How to Cook Kale

If you've hesitated to experiment with kale because you've heard it can be tough and chewy, we'll change your mind (and give you tips on preventing those food disasters) in Kale Gets Its Say.

Try your hand at some of our favorite kale recipes at home this weekend:

Tuscan Braised Chicken with Kale, Fennel & Cannellini Beans
Stir-Fried Sesame Broccoli and Kale
Tuscan Kale Salad with Pancetta, Pecorino & Walnuts
Minestrone with Farro, Chickpeas & Kale

If you really want to get the skinny on kale, check out our upcoming classes that feature this superfood:

Meat 101: Pork Milanese with Warm Kale-Potato Salad  

Couples Cooking: Under the Tuscan Moon: Ribollita  

Fresh Start: Minestrone with Farro, Chickpeas and Kale

Romantic Valentine's Dinner: Tuscan Kale Salad with Pancetta, Pecorino and Walnuts    

 

Every class in our new Clean in '15 series with Chef Alia Dalal features kale. From Plant-Powered Protein (sold out!) to Filling Fats to Charged Up Carbs, this series of cooking classes will give you the tools to change your eating habits for the better this year. Get more healthy tips from Alia in her blog.  

 

Please note that all of the classes mentioned above are offered multiple times, so please check our class calendars for the best fit for your schedule.  

Want even more kale knowledge? Check out these 17 Fun Facts about Kale from Food Matters.

Don't miss our Leafy Greens Pinterest board for more ways to add kale to your diet.