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Why You Should Be Massaging Your Kale

Greens need to relax, too

Kale can be very polarizing. People either love it and put it in everything--or hate it because it’s too bitter or tough. Turns out, there’s a better way to eat the stuff to make it more agreeable for everyone.

What you need: 2 to 3 cups (or heaping handfuls) of raw kale, olive oil, a lemon and sea salt.

What you do: Start by removing the leaves from the stem and breaking them up into smaller pieces. Put the leaves into a large bowl, then add a tablespoon of olive oil, a squeeze of lemon juice and a pinch of sea salt. Gently knead the leaves (like you would dough--seriously) for a few minutes until they soften up. Ahhh, so much better.

Why it works: Kale has a naturally tough texture. By massaging the leaves prior to eating them, you break down the fibers, which makes it easier to chew--and digest. Plus, the lemon juice and salt add a little flavor and reduce the bitter taste. What can't a good massage fix?



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Freelance Editor

From 2015-2020 Lindsay Champion held the role of Food and Wellness Director. She continues to write for PureWow as a Freelance Editor.

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