Nutrition Facts for Kale

Kale contains lutein, an antioxidant that protects against macular degeneration, a leading cause of blindness. Kale is also rich in beta-carotene, vitamin C, and vitamin E, as well as folate (which helps prevent heart disease and birth defects) and calcium and magnesium, two minerals important for strong bones. Kale also contains some omega-3 fatty acids.

A Daily Recipe!
Kale and Chickpea Soup

INGREDIENTS:

1 medium onion, chopped (1 cup)
2 garlic cloves, chopped
1 Turkish or 1/2 California bay leaf
1 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 large boiling potato(3/4 lb), peeled and cut into 1/2-inch pieces
3/4 lb kale, stems and center ribs cut out and discarded, then leaves very finely chopped in a food processor (4 cups)
3 1/2 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth (28 fl oz)
2 cups water
1 (14-oz) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
1/4 lb Spanish chorizo (cured spiced pork sausage), casing discarded and sausage cut into 1/4-inch dice (1 cup)

PREPARATION

Cook onion, garlic, bay leaf, salt, and pepper in oil in a wide 4- to 6-quart heavy pot over moderate heat, stirring frequently, until onion and garlic are softened and beginning to brown, 5 to 7 minutes. Add potato, kale, broth, and water and cook, partially covered, until potatoes are tender, 15 to 20 minutes. Reduce heat to low, then add chickpeas and chorizo and gently simmer, uncovered, 3 minutes. Discard bay leaf and season with salt and pepper.