Citrus-Massaged Kale Salad

I just found this fabulous website called The Garden of Eating.   I am not one to enjoy my kale raw or have salad with fruit in it but the description of this recipe on the website has convinced me to give it a try.  It said that by massaging the kale with the citrus it makes it more tender.  I imagine it will make it less earthy tasting as well.  I have not made it yet as I won't get my kale until Tuesday.  But I am going try it.

Massaged Kale Salad with Toasted Nuts, Dried Cherries & Parmesan ­­ 

Ingredients

• 2 bunches of kale (about 1 lb), rinsed and dried, center ribs and stems removed, leaves thinly sliced crosswise
• Juice of 2-­3 lemons
• 2 Tbsps. olive oil
• 2 Tbsps. maple syrup or honey
• 1/4 cup lightly toasted pine nuts or almonds
• 1/4 cup dried cherries, cranberries or currants
• 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan or Romano cheeses plus some bigger shavings to top the salad with
• Sea salt to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper to taste

Preparation

1. Place the thinly sliced kale in a large bowl and toss with the lemon juice and olive oil (add more of either thing if you feel like there's not enough to cover everything.) Massage the mixture with your fingers until all of the kale is well-coated and looks a bit darker in color. Let sit for a half hour (or not, if you're in a hurry!)
   
2. Add the rest of the ingredients and toss to coat. Give it a taste and adjust the seasonings, if needed. Top with the shaved cheese and serve.