Farmer's Market Friday : Kale

I am challenged to create something new each Friday using an item from the Farmer's Market. With great optimism, I approached Schreiber & Sons Organic Produce booth..and then I wilted.

There were SO many different items... What on earth was I supposed to pick even? 

So. I asked. Good things come to those who ask, I found.

The guy manning the booth said to start off with kale. Kale? What on earth is kale? Turns out, kale is the most nutrient rich vegetable out there. It is extremely high in antioxidants and vitamin c. Who knew?! So, Kale it was.

Now, which of the three varieties there?? See my trouble? Too many options!

After I got the kale, I asked him how to make it and the quickest, he said, was kale chips.

Wait.

What?

Kale CHIPS? 

Because, you know, it's entirely normal to bake your lettuce!! NOT!

But, not to be dissuaded, I got a large bunch and went home to...bake my lettuce. Right...

I washed it. And dried it. And ripped it into tiny pieces. That stuff is tough!! Really dense, thick, and fibrous. 

 

Then, I put it on a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper, spritzed it with olive oil, and sprinkled it with salt.

After that, I baked my lettuce. On 350. For 11 minutes.

And guess what. They were....strange. A good strange, though. Different. Definitely crispy! Kind of melt in your mouth crispy. I liked them! And so did the kiddos. I was going to save part of the kale to make a stir fry but, well, I made it all into crisps. My kids downed a whole bowl. As did Craig. I will be making these again! I'm quite happy I opened my mouth to ask because I found out something new.

You can bake lettuce. And it's good!

Gives new meaning to "Ruffle Chips"!

I already can't wait for next Farmer's Market Friday!