Lacinato kale is a long-standing staple of Italian cuisine and native to the Mediterranean region. It’s sometimes called Tuscan kale or dinosaur kale, and has been used for centuries in Tuscany.

Kale is known as a ‘superfood’ for its high nutrient density. Lacinato kale is low in calories and and is exceptionally high in the following:

• Vitamin A, K, C
• Magnesium, which supports healthy blood pressure, mood, sleep, and muscle strength among others
• Antioxidants, which protect against the attack of free radicals
• Beta-carotene, which is turned into vitamin A leading to the high vitamin A concentration. 

Kale can be used fresh or cooked. To use fresh, it is best to massage it to break down fibers and make it easier to eat. It can be tossed in olive oil with salt and baked on a sheet to make kale chips. Steaming it makes for great side dishes or additions to healthy bowls.