kale Archives - Gnatty Savannah

Spring Recipe: Kale and White Bean Casserole

Happy Spring! I went to the Forsyth Farmer’s Market over the weekend, and I bought some yummy produce. This morning, I use the kale and scallion to make an impromptu green and healthy casserole.

First, I added oil to the casserole dish and preheated the dish. They I added garlic, chopped onion and one banana pepper to the dish. Then I drained and rinsed one can of Northern white beans. I also chopped a few scallions and then added feta cheese, cheddar cheese and two tablespoons of heavy cream.

Then I pulled out my spices. I added black pepper, paprika, garlic salt, and oregano. I added the kale last after sauteeing the kale in water and one clove of garlic. Lastly, I had some leftover rosemary focaccia that I got from Back in The Day Bakery. I broke off a few pieces and threw them in. The result is a very delicious and inexpensive casserole that can either be a side or an entree.

Recipe: Mac and Cheese With Kale and Roasted Red Peppers

High/low cooking is what I call using local farmer’s market vegetables with store bought stuff. I decided to make macaroni and cheese with kale. I was inspired by a dish I had years ago when Red Rooster opened in Harlem. The mac-and-greens dish is still on the menu, so it must be a favorite.

I bought some shells and cheese to go with the cheddar cheese, kale, onion and red pepper I bought last week at the Forsyth Farmer’s Market. First, I roasted a quarter of an onion and one whole red pepper in the oven with olive oil and seasoning.

In the meantime, I sauteed the kale with chicken stock and garlic. After 10 minutes, I took the kale off the heat and drained the excess chicken stock into another boiler. I used that boiler to cook the pasta. Then I drained the pasta, and added sour cream, cheddar cheese and heavy cream. Then I added in the kale. Lastly, I put the contents of that pot into the same casserole that I roasted the red pepper and onion. I sprinkled a little more cheese and baked for 15 more minutes. It is delicious, and healthy. Marcus Samuelsson, eat your heart out.