Kale Salad with Orange Vinaigrette

Here we are, heading into the second full week of the new year. In our abode, life is in full swing and is the most important time to stay focused and reset. In 2015, my goal is to start fresh, cleanse, simplify, be healthy and stay motivated. When I say in the new year, I mean the whole year…a way of life…even more balance than I had in 2014.

Setting new goals IS important. It is a guide to what we will tackle in the new year. Post it on your fridge or in your bathroom. Somewhere where you frequently visit. Have a buddy system with your spouse, friend or sibling. Reward yourself for minor and major milestones, but most importantly have fun and don’t take life too serious.

We strive and work so hard in our careers, our children, our homes that we sometimes forget about ourselves. A healthy life must start within ourselves. We need to get a well oiled machine, well, oiled. It all starts with what we feed our bodies. Below is a delicious recipe with few ingredients. Eat it anytime of day, add salmon, tofu or chicken for extra protein.

Ingredients

• 1 bunch curly kale
• 1/2 tablespoon grainy Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon orange zest, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• freshly ground pepper and salt to taste
• 1/3 cup dried cranberries
• 1/3 cup toasted pecans, chopped coarsely
• 1/3 cup sheep milk feta cheese, crumbled

Instructions

1. Rinse kale leaves and remove all stems. Tear or cut leaves in small pieces and place in medium microwave-proof bowl. (You should have about 6 cups of raw kale.)
2. In a small bowl, combine mustard, orange zest and orange juice. Whisk in olive oil and season to taste with salt and pepper.
3. Cover bowl of kale and microwave for 30-40 seconds, or until slightly wilted. Remove any excess water from the kale by draining it or moving the leaves to a new bowl.
4. Add half the vinaigrette (2 tablespoons) and toss with the kale. Add more vinaigrette if desired.
5. Add cranberries, pecans, and feta cheese to the kale, and toss until evenly combined.