kale...two ways

So amber from "simply sweet life" posted a food ingredient challenge which was the perfect accompaniment to the Top Chef All-Star Finale i had DVRed. {and a BIG congrats to Richard Blais}

Kale Salad...{a new take on broccoli salad}

one bunch kale, stems removed and chopped
1/4 cup red onion, diced
1 cup red grapes, cut in half
8 slices of bacon, crumbled {you can anything...with BACON and it will taste delicious}
1 cup sunflower seeds

the rich green of the kale complements the red grapes!

dressing...
1 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons white sugar
3 tablespoons white wine vinegar

make dressing by placing the three ingredients in a mason jar, shake

place the kale, grapes and onion in a serving bowl.  toss with the dressing.  I didn't use the entire jar.
chill for a few hours so the flavors blend.  just before serving, add the bacon and sunflower seeds.

and the finished product!

 and the second way...

kale-bell pepper-pasta toss

 

8 ounces of your favorite pasta {i used whole wheat bowties}

one red bell pepper, chopped

one yellow pepper, chopped

one bunch kale, chopped

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 tablespoon minced garlic

feta cheese, crumbled

fresh basil

prepare the pasta in boiling, salted water.  heat olive oil in a pan.  add garlic and saute for a few minutes.  add kale and peppers, saute until the peppers are soft.  toss the veggies with the warm pasta.  add feta.  season with salt and pepper.  garnish with the fresh basil.

monday morning quarterbacking...i would have added a splash of fresh squeezed lemon juice to the warm pasta just prior to serving  {next time!}