10 Habits for a Healthy Summer Routine

With the kids out of school, vacations, and other obligations, you may find yourself falling out of your normal routine during the summer. And while it is a season to relax and unwind, that doesn’t mean you have to neglect your health goals. Instead, try adapting your regular habits to create a new healthy routine that works with your summer schedule. After all, this season is a great time to get moving outdoors and take advantage of the availability of fresh produce. 

So, here are 10 practical tips that you can implement in your daily routine to help you live a healthier life this summer. 

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One:

Commit to a healthy breakfast each day. 

Summertime provides plenty of opportunities to consume delicious meals and indulgent desserts. One way to ensure you’re having at least one fresh, nutrient-filled meal each day is to plan to eat a healthy breakfast daily. That way, you’ve had some fruits and/or veggies before you even leave your house for the day! Greens trio breakfast toast, a back-to-basics smoothie, or these Mediterranean egg white cups are all fantastic options to get your greens in first thing in the morning.

Two:

Find different ways to move your body.

The sunny summer weather is perfect for getting outside and enjoying nature. While you spend time in the great outdoors, try engaging in fun activities like biking, kayaking, paddle boarding, swimming, playing tennis, or hiking. These are excellent methods of physical activity that will have you moving without even feeling like it’s exercise. And since there are so many different summer activities to choose from, you’ll never be bored.

Three:

Utilize seasonal produce in meals and snacks.

The summer brings an abundance of seasonal fruits and vegetables like apples, avocados, melons, corn, cucumbers, berries, summer squash, tomatoes, and more. Take advantage of the availability of these options by planning lunches and dinners that incorporate your favorites. Grilled veggies & BBQ steak, Sautéed Kale with Chickpeas, Okra, and Tomatoes, and Berry Pecan Kale Salad are just a few tasty meal ideas that use summer produce. Additionally, keeping some fresh fruits and veggies on hand can make for excellent, healthy snacking choices.

Four:

Try taking cold showers.

The shock of cold water can have a multitude of health benefits for both the body and mind. Studies have shown that cold showers can help with mental clarity, reduce inflammation, improve circulation, lift your mood, improve skin and hair health, and support a healthy metabolism. And in the heat of the summer, a cold shower can be helpful for cooling down.

Five:

Be sure to stay hydrated.

Drinking plenty of water is important year-round, but it becomes even more of a priority in the warmer months. Most of us are sweating more than usual and need to replace those lost fluids. The amount of water a person needs will vary based on factors like climate and diet, but a general rule of thumb is to drink at least 8 cups of water per day. Drinking smoothies like this Going Green Smoothie or this Kale Mango Pineapple Ginger Smoothie can also aid in hydration.

Six:

Use sunscreen anytime you leave the house.

Sunscreen protects your skin against the harmful UV rays that cause sunburn, skin cancer, and premature aging. Those rays are especially strong in the summertime, so while it’s a good habit to wear sunscreen at any time of year, it’s vital during the summer. Your skin will thank you!

Seven:

Avoid excessive amounts of processed foods.

When you’re out of your normal daily routine in the summer, ultra-processed convenience foods such as microwave dinners, potato chips, and sugary breakfast cereals can become the easy choice for snacks and meals. While there’s room for balance in your diet, it would be a good choice to avoid these kinds of foods as much as possible. Instead, try preparing food ahead of time so that when you’re hungry, you can turn to those healthier options rather than the quick, processed choices. This make-ahead smoothie or Fresh Turnip Green Tabbouleh would be ideal options to have on hand.

Eight:

Make time for rest.

Due to longer daylight hours and increased opportunities for socialization, you may find that you’re getting less sleep than usual in the summer months. However, without enough sleep, you become more prone to health issues. Prioritize your rest by keeping a consistent sleep schedule and taking time to wind down before bedtime.

Nine:

Pack your own snacks for trips and outings.

If you’re taking a summer road trip, snacks are non-negotiable. However, they don’t have to be the typical unhealthy options. Instead, you can pack better-for-you foods like superfood balls, hummus, or greens & seeds popcorn. Get the recipes and more ideas here!

Ten:

Spend time in the sunshine to absorb Vitamin D.

Vitamin D is an essential nutrient, but about 42% of the American population is actually Vitamin D deficient. Make sure you’re staying on top of your Vitamin D needs by spending time outside in the sun. Being exposed to the sunlight is one of the best ways to absorb this vitamin, and the summertime is the perfect time to make sure you’re getting as much as possible.

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Keeping a healthy summer routine is all about taking small, achievable steps. Don’t overwhelm yourself by trying to do it all at once, and make it fun for yourself! Figure out which healthy, seasonal foods are your favorites, try various outdoor activities to see which is your thing, and spend time relaxing in the sun. Creating healthy summer habits is good for your body and mind, and it can be enjoyable as well.

Healthy Snacks for Summer Road Trips

Summer is the season of road trips! With beautiful, sunny weather and the kids out of school, there’s no better time to travel. We’re definitely looking forward to going to the beach, driving up to the mountains, and visiting family and friends. 

What’s a road trip without snacks, though? In our opinion, snacks are a non-negotiable element of any trip, especially when you’re driving long distances. No one wants to be a hangry traveler! And having snacks on hand will cut down on stops for food, helping you reach your destination as quickly as possible. 

Now, when you think of road trip snacks, you probably think of unhealthy, processed foods. But it doesn’t have to be that way! It just takes a little planning and preparation, but you can fuel your body properly and stay on track with your health goals even while on the road. Here are a few of our favorite healthy snacks to make ahead of time and take with us on the go. 

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Superfood Fudge Balls

Chocolate lovers will be hooked on these rich, fudgy superfood balls. The recipe sneaks in a whole cup of kale, but you’d never know it. The cocoa powder is truly the star of the show here, with support from the sweetness of maple syrup, creaminess of almond butter, and seasoning of vanilla, cinnamon, and ginger. These balls do need to be refrigerated, so we’d suggest packing them in a cooler for your travels.

Chocolate Kale Zucchini Mini Muffins

These gluten-free, dairy-free, naturally sweetened mini muffins would be the perfect pick-me-up during a long drive. Plus, their small size makes them easy for little hands to hold while in the car. They’re made with fresh ingredients like zucchini, kale, and banana, and flavored with pumpkin pie spice and chopped chocolate. 

Kale and Lentil Hummus

If you’re the kind of person who prefers savory snacks over sweet, this protein-packed dip is for you. Using lentils instead of the traditional garbanzo beans, it’s a unique hummus that is super simple to put together. Just add your lentils, olive oil, seasonings, and balsamic vinegar to a food processor or blender, puree until smooth, fold in your kale, and it’s ready to go. Serve with fresh veggies or your favorite crackers for a tasty bite to eat.

Sweet Greens and Seeds Popcorn

You can’t go wrong with popcorn on a road trip! This recipe jazzes it up with a sweet almond butter drizzle, chia and pumpkin seeds, and kale. It’s a light snack, making it a great choice for when you just need something to munch on. However, it’ll still provide you with plenty of nutrients.

Chocolate Cherry Kale Breakfast Cookies

These healthy cookies utilize the delectable combination of cherries and chocolate to form an irresistible treat. And with almond butter, oats, and almond flour, they’ll be filling enough to tide you over until your next meal. That makes them an ideal road trip choice! 

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Who’s ready to hit the road? No matter where your travels take you this summer, we’re sure you’ll find an excellent snacking option on this list. Each of them is packable, easy to grab, and brimming with nutritious ingredients. And whether you’re hungry and need a hearty snack to fill you up, or are simply in the mood to nibble, there is something for everyone to enjoy. So, next time you’re loading up the car for a road trip, don’t forget your healthy, homemade snacks!

Beat the Heat in the Kitchen

Summer is upon us, and it’s time to enjoy pool days, beach trips, boat rides, and all kinds of summer fun! However, one aspect of the season that’s not quite as delightful is the summer heat. Here at our headquarters in Pelion, SC, the average heat index in June is 101.3°F. With high temperatures like that, it feels as if you’re immediately dripping in sweat once you step outside the comfort of your air-conditioned home. 

Since most people are doing everything they can to cool off during this time of year, turning on the oven or working over the stove to make a meal is not ideal. There’s no need to add even more heat to your home! So, what’s our solution? Stick to light, refreshing meals that require minimal heat and will help you keep cool. Read on to get the recipes for the dishes we’ll be savoring all summer long!

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PB Banana Kale Smoothie

Of course, we had to start off with a smoothie! Made with frozen bananas, your milk of choice, coconut water, greens, protein powder, chocolate chips, peanut butter, and ice all blended together, it’s both filling and refreshing. The frozen banana and ice will cool you off quickly, while the coconut water contains electrolytes for rehydration after sweating in the heat. And with the protein powder and peanut butter, this smoothie is basically a full-on meal in a cup!

Strawberries & Greens Smoothie Bowl

If you prefer to eat your smoothies with fun toppings rather than drink them from a glass, this recipe may be the perfect fit. All you need to do to make this smoothie bowl is blend kale, frozen cauliflower, banana, peaches, and pineapple with cashew milk until smooth and creamy. Pour it into a bowl, then garnish with your favorite toppings. Fresh berries, coconut flakes, chia seeds, and banana slices are all great options!

Protein Collard Wraps 

For a light and fresh lunch, try collard wraps. Replacing the traditional tortilla with a collard leaf will not only cut out some calories but also adds essential nutrients like vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin K, calcium, and iron. This simple recipe just calls for spreading chicken salad over collard leaves, rolling them up, and chilling in the refrigerator before enjoying. You can make your own chicken salad, or pick up a premade package at your local grocery store to make it even easier!

Turkey Avocado Roll-Ups

These turkey avocado roll-ups make another easy, low-carb wrap alternative! Just lay slices of deli turkey on your plate, place collard greens, avocado, and strawberries on top, and roll them up. You’re getting protein from the turkey and healthy fats from the avocado, both of which will aid in keeping you satiated until your next meal. Delicious, filling, healthy, and no cooking required…it’s a winning combination!

Summer Grapefruit & Avocado Kale Salad 

Tangy grapefruit, smooth avocado, salty feta cheese, sweet cranberries, and crunchy pecans come together to form a delectable combination in this summery salad. Set atop a bed of kale and drizzled with a homemade dressing made from ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen, getting your veggies in doesn’t get any better than this! Pro tip: massage your chopped kale with olive oil to add some extra healthy fats and make the greens easier to chew and digest.

Cool Fruit & Veggie Pops 

Our list wouldn’t be complete without a dessert recipe, would it? These refreshing popsicles make the perfect finale. To create this healthy summer treat, just purée watermelon, strawberries, and kale in your blender, stir in blueberries and lime juice, and freeze in popsicle molds. After a few hours, your fruity frozen dessert will be ready to enjoy! 

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Beating the heat each summer can be difficult, especially for those of us living in the South. However, no-cook recipes like these can make that challenge a little bit easier. Cool smoothies, fresh wraps, crisp salads, and frozen popsicles are just the right thing to satisfy your cravings in the midst of the scorching heat. And as a bonus, they are all filled with plenty of fruits and veggies to keep you healthy and energized as you enjoy the sun this season. Happy summer, and stay cool!

Naturally Dyed Easter Egg Fun!

Transforming everyday eggs into beautiful, colorful decorations has been an Easter tradition for decades. Eggs are a symbol of rebirth and fertility, making them the perfect object to celebrate the holiday. What you may not know is that your kitchen is full of natural dyes. Simple foods like onions, cabbage, and other vegetables provide gorgeous colors in an earth-friendly way! It’s a pretty simple process of bringing the ingredients to a boil and then soaking the eggs in the colored liquid. That said, keep in mind that this natural process could allow different variations of color depending on how concentrated the dye is!

Here’s what you need!

• 1 head of purple cabbage

• 2 lb. bag of yellow onions

• 2 lb. bag of red onions

• 2 bunches of beets (about 6 medium-sized beets)

• Baking soda

• 1 dozen boiled white eggs (or more!)

Here’s what you do!

Peel the outermost dry layers of the yellow onions. Using a 2:1 ratio of water to plant matter (1 cup of water to 1 cup of plant matter), add onion skins and water to a pot and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to low and simmer for up to an hour. Pour out the contents of the pot through a mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a large bowl. Once strained, pour the remaining liquid into a storage container or mason jar. Once the liquid is at room temperature, add boiled eggs and let sit for 30 minutes to 1 hour. Your egg should be an orange color! 

Chop purple cabbage into fine pieces. Using a 1:1 ratio of water to plant matter (1 cup of water to 1 cup of plant matter), add chopped cabbage and water to a pot and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to low and simmer for up to an hour. Pour out the contents of the pot through a mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a large bowl. Once strained, pour the remaining liquid into a storage container or mason jar. Once the liquid is at room temperature, add boiled eggs and let sit for 30 minutes to 1 hour. Your egg should be close to a light blue color! 

Peel the outermost dry layers of the red onions. Using a 2:1 ratio of water to plant matter (1 cup of water to 1 cup of plant matter), add onion skins and water to a pot and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to low and simmer for up to an hour. Pour out the contents of the pot through a mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a large bowl. Once strained, pour the remaining liquid into a storage container or mason jar. Once the liquid is at room temperature, add boiled eggs and let sit for 30 minutes to 1 hour. Your egg should be a yellow color! 

Chop beets into small pieces. Using a 2:1 ratio of water to plant matter (1 cup of water to 1 cup of plant matter), add beets and water to a pot and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to low and simmer for up to an hour. Pour out the contents of the pot through a mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a large bowl. Once strained, pour the remaining liquid into a storage container or mason jar. Once the liquid is at room temperature, add boiled eggs and let sit for 30 minutes to 1 hour. Your egg should be a pink color!

Tips to keep in mind!

• Add 1/4 teaspoon at a time of baking soda to a dye to experiment with changing the hue of each dye.

• You can create new colors by mixing dyes together in equal parts, such as mixing the red onion and purple cabbage to make green!

• Practice patience. If at first, you do not see much color on the eggs, let the eggs sit longer in the dye.

• If the dye was made with too much water, then the dye will be lighter and take longer to appear on the eggs. When making the dye itself, it’s always better to put a little less water in the pot than too much, so the dye is not too thin.

Spring into Spring

We’re in the final stretch, Spring is on the rise! While the warm soups and stews we’re well enjoyed, it’s time for some new flavors. This time of year seems to always inspire us to feel renewed with light and colorful meals. What better way to do that than with fresh spring produce?

Here on the farm, we’re hard at work harvesting fresh vegetables and leafy greens every day for you and your family to enjoy. So, in celebration of the new season, and more hours of sunshine, here are a few of our favorite spring recipes that are certain to make your day a little better!

Simple Kale Salad

This salad recipe is so easy to make and is a tasty way to eat your greens. Remember to massage the kale before adding the other ingredients then cook, toss, and serve!

View full recipe here!

Sautéed Collard Greens with Pomegranate Seeds

We love a pretty plate and this is the perfect side dish to brighten things up. Collard greens sautéed with fresh chopped bacon, pomegranate seeds, and garlic - ready within minutes!

View full recipe here!

Greens Trio Breakfast Toast

They say breakfast is the most important meal of the day so what better way to start your morning off than with some delicious toast? Nature’s Greens Greens Trio, egg, avocado, and everything bagel seasoning on fresh bread.

View full recipe here!

Salmon Grain Bowl with Sesame Miso Dressing

If you’re in the mood to cook and love a good grain bowl, this is the recipe for you! Fresh salmon, mustard greens, edamame, and soy-marinated egg topped with sesame miso dressing. Takes just 30 minutes to cook and serves enough for 2!

View full recipe here!

Super Bowl Sunday Must Haves

Super Bowl Sunday is almost here and it wouldn’t be a party without some of your favorite appetizers. Regardless of who’s playing, having the ultimate game day feast is a must. Whether you watch for the game, or for the commercials, you're sure to be snacking on some delicious dishes.

Let’s start with the must-haves: dips!

Everyone looks forward to a good dip that keeps them coming back for more. Two of our favorites are our Collard Greens and Artichoke Dip and Slow Cooker Kale Artichoke Dip. Both are great when eaten with chips, bread, or crackers. Not to mention they both take under 20 minutes to prepare!

Chips always do well on occasions like this, so why not spice it up a bit with our Crispy Zucchini Chips! It’s as simple as dipping your sliced zucchini into a cornmeal mixture and backing for 5 to 10 minutes until nice and browned.

Wraps are another easy way to go!

Our Super Green Pesto Wraps are a healthy, quick fix that will pretty up any serving platter! Kale pesto, hummus, cucumber, cabbage, green peppers, avocado, cheese, and chicken wrapped in a collard leaf? Yes, please!

Last but not least, we can’t leave out one of game day’s most popular dishes, tacos! These Taco Cups are great for serving a crowd without a hassle. Simply bake your tortillas in a muffin pan and stuff with meat, corn, veggies, kale, and avocado.

Cook Up Some Collard Green Luck

With 2022 only days away, it’s almost time to prepare for the big New Year’s meal. Traditionally, people around the world gather to feast over specific foods that symbolize health, wealth, and prosperity for the coming year. Most popular southern traditions include greens, beans, pork, and cornbread. These foods represent good fortune, money, progress, and gold.  

Although many of these foods are enjoyed year-round, it’s said to bring you bad luck if you don’t start off the New Year with them. Fortunately for you, we have enough collard green recipes to last a lifetime.  Besides, what better way to start 2022 than with a healthy serving of greens!

Regardless of your tradition, if you’re looking to make the coming year your best one yet, or just looking for a delicious collard green recipe, we’ve got you covered!

Heart Smart Collards

Click here for the full recipe!

You can’t go wrong keeping it simple. This traditional collard green recipe only calls for the basics. Chicken/vegetable broth, water, olive-oil, salt, pepper, and sugar. Cook on medium until the desired tenderness.

Collards with Kimchi

Click here for the full recipe!

A delicious twist to a classic collard green dish. Sauté some onion, stir in the collards and broth, let cook for about 20 minutes and then add the vinegar and kimchi. Ready to serve in just 30 minutes.

Collard Greens with Caramelized Apples and Onions

Click here for the full recipe!

If you’re looking to sweeten your greens, try adding caramelized apples. Cook your collards as normal in water and chicken broth, then add 2 tablespoons of white wine and a onion-apple mixture. Takes just 5 minutes to prep!

Italian Sausage White Bean and Collard Green Soup

Click here for the full recipe!

This Italian spin on collard greens has become a favorite we hope you enjoy. Let your sausage cook, then your onions and carrots, before adding in the greens and bringing to a boil. Lastly, add the beans and cook for another 10 minutes. Perfect when served with cornbread.

Asian Collard Stir Fry

Click here for the full recipe!

This recipe is a quick and easy way to prepare collard greens with an Asian twist. Start by sautéing the onions, then add the collards and top with rice vinegar and soy sauce. Finish by adding honey and stirring with the vinegars. Ready to eat in 25 minutes.

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We may not be able to control your luck, but we’ll do our best to help. Stop by your local grocery store and pick up a bag of Nature’s Greens Collard Greens. Locally grown just for you this New Years!

Tis' the Season to Eat Your Greens

The winter season is almost here as we begin to prepare for some joyful holidays.  You may not know it, but it’s also one of the best times of year for leafy greens to grow.

Greens such as kale and collards are strong and resilient through the cold weather and actually begin to sweeten after the first frost. Throughout the growing season, these root vegetables store their energy in form of starches. When temperatures drop, they turn their starches into sugars, giving them a new delicious taste. Although they may not be as sweet as some of your favorite Christmas treats, they still make for some tasty dishes.

Whether you choose to incorporate them into recipes or use them as festive decorations to entertain, their versatility leaves us with endless options. So, as you begin to build your upcoming holiday menus, don't forget to include a green or two, and maybe even a recipe from our cookbook!

Crock-Pot Lentil, Yam, and Kale Stew

Click here for full recipe!

We love a great crock-pot recipe. Take just 10 minutes to prep and then combine all ingredients into the slow cooker. Before serving, garnish with combination of minced and fresh rosemary.

White Bean Kale Cauliflower Casserole

Click here for full recipe!

You can never go wrong with a casserole. This quick and easy dish calls for common household ingredients plus Nature’s Green Kale, chopped cauliflower, and 1/2 cup of white beans. Set to bake for just 25 minutes on 350 F.

Wild Rice, Cranberry and Collard Greens Stuffing

Click here for the full recipe!

This beautiful dish is the perfect holiday combination. Cook the rice, sauté the greens and combine with cranberries and thyme to serve. It’s certain to dress up the dinner table!

Lemon Garlic Turnip Greens

Click here for the full recipe!

Turnip greens are a southern favorite. Grab a bag of Nature’s Greens Turnip Greens, sauté with avocado oil, garlic, lemon juice and salt. Ready to enjoy in under 10 minutes.

From our WP Rawl family to yours, we wish you a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!

Turning Thanksgiving Leftovers into Healthy Meals

What’s better than Thanksgiving itself? Thanksgiving leftovers. Nothing beats getting to enjoy your favorite meal a few more times after the big day. But after a while, you start to find yourself craving meals that are lighter and healthier.

We all know it’s simple enough to throw together a turkey sandwich, but there’s no reason you can’t get creative. So, if you have tons of leftovers, don’t let them go to waste. There are so many ways you can incorporate your traditional Thanksgiving dishes into healthy, balanced meals. Not to mention, if leafy greens didn’t make it to the dinner table this year, try including them now!

Whether it’s putting leftover turkey on a kale salad for a protein boost, making a pot of cream of turkey soup with sautéed collard greens, or whipping together a sweet potato and stuffing casserole baked with greens – the options are truly endless.  

To get you started, here are a few ways we get creative with our Thanksgiving leftovers. Feel free to share with us in the comments how you enjoy yours!

Sweet Potato Kale Casserole

Grab your leftover sweet potatoes and a bag of Nature’s Greens Kale and in just 35 minutes, you can have this Sweet Potato & Kale Casserole. It takes less than 10 ingredients and just 5 minutes to prep!

Fresh Cranberry Sauce With Maple Collard Crisps

If you’ve got cranberry sauce to spare, this dish will do the trick. On a baking sheet, bake a layer of collard greens with maple syrup and coconut oil on top, then garnish with warm cranberry sauce. Ready to enjoy in under 10 minutes!

Winter Farro Salad

Happen to buy one too many sweet potatoes? Simply dice them into cubes and let roast for 25-30 minutes for this Winter Farro kale salad. If you’re really hungry, you can add some chopped turkey too!

Heart Healthy Mustard Greens

The name says it all. Get all the nutrients you need with this quick dish. Sauté your mustard greens and ground turkey in a pan of vegetable broth, pepper, and honey to serve!

Turkey and Collard Cassoulets

If you have a little extra time on your hands and love turkey as much as we do, try out our Turkey and Collard Cassoulets recipe. It’s perfect to pack for your upcoming week of work or for dinner with the family! Have prepped to cook in just 10 minutes.

Thanksgiving Traditions

Each year, loved ones gather to celebrate precious memories shared over a delicious feast. We each look forward to seeing family members walk through the door and to our favorite dishes being revealed on the Thanksgiving table. It seems everyone tends to anticipate the familiar dishes they love this time of year. It brings a sense of comfort and joy to the home.

We all have those traditions that make you realize Thanksgiving wouldn’t be Thanksgiving without them. Whether it’s watching the Macy’s Day Parade, helping set the table, or being your grandmother’s official taste tester, all are special moments we each appreciate in our own way. One tradition special to us is having leafy greens on the menu. Not only does it represent our year of hard work, but it’s a nutritious dish served with color and texture.

It can be difficult to balance fresh veggies on the table with all your holiday favorites. But, if you’re looking to start a new tradition, or just wanting to revamp an old recipe, here are a few that can help you incorporate greens into your Thanksgiving meal.

Braised Mustard Greens with Bacon

This dish is full of flavor from the smoky bacon, garlic, and sugar. Plus, it’s a great way to serve nutrient-dense greens at your dinner. Simply heat all of the ingredients in a skillet for just 10 minutes and enjoy.

View full recipe!

Turnip Greens Strata

This casserole-style dish can be served for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and everything in between. It’s packed with heart-healthy turnip greens and has a delicious bread crust. It can feed 8 and takes just 30 to 45 minutes to cook.

View full recipe!

Comfort Kale Stew

If you’re looking for a recipe that’ll make you feel all warm and cozy this Thanksgiving, our Comfort Kale Stew should do the trick. Kale, chicken, milk, curry, tomatoes, and turmeric all in a pan for 50 minutes.

View full recipe!

Deviled Dijon Collard Eggs

A delicious twist to a traditional favorite. Mash the yolks and fold in Dijon mustard, lemon juice, cayenne peppers, and collard greens. Mix thoroughly and simply top the sliced boiled egg!

View full recipe!

For more recipes, visit our website and check out our latest holiday Pinterest board filled with festive dishes!

Kale Yeah!

If you've been around with us for a while, you know that one of our mottos is, "with kale, you can't fail!" In case you're still wondering why we think kale is absolutely plant-tastic, here are a few things you need to know about this nutrient-rich leafy green to give you a little help using it to entertain and decorate your tablescape this fall.

From a health perspective, kale is HIGH in nutrients— think beta-carotene and other powerful antioxidants, vitamins C and K, and minerals. It is also super low in calories, which makes it one of the most nutrient-dense foods on the planet. In addition, kale helps to lower bad cholesterol levels and protect against cancer, not to mention promoting eye health and aiding weight loss.

This seasonal veggie also comes in different varieties, with leaves that go from green to purple, and shapes that range from smooth to curly. This leafy diversity also reflects in all the delicious ways you can eat it: Yes, you can have kale raw in salads and smoothies, but it can also be consumed blanched, steamed, sautéed, boiled, braised, roasted, or baked in a multitude of creative recipes. It's no wonder the first Wednesday in October has been chosen as National Kale Day, an annual celebration of kale's health benefits and culinary versatility.

Now that you know why kale is pretty much our definition of a superfood, brace yourselves because we’ve got meal prep recommendations to help you get the most of one of our all-time favorite seasonal greens!

Stir it!

We might be biased, but we think everything tastes better with leafy greens! If you need some inspiration to make healthier treats for your next tailgate or Halloween party, it doesn't get much easier than combining ready-to-eat kale with your main recipe ingredients.

Try it with:  Jack-O-Guac and Spooktacular Halloween Treats!

Massage it!

As a cruciferous vegetable of the cabbage family, kale is tough and fibrous, which can make it difficult to chew. That's where massaging it might come in handy! By rubbing a little oil or lemon juice on chopped kale leaves for a couple of minutes until they are glossy and tender, you can make them more pleasing to the eye and easier to eat and digest. Bonus: They’ll also get infused with flavor.

Try it with:  Hallows' Eve Kale Bites

 Layer it!

We eat with our eyes too, and we get it — kale doesn't always meet everyone's eye candy standards. In addition to massaging its leaves, we recommend combining them with some of your favorite fruits to help spice things up. We don't know about you, but we'll be indulging our palate with lots of apples, pomegranates, figs, plums, grapes, pears, pineapples, cherries, and bananas this month.

Try it with:  Kale Cottage Cheese Crunch!

Bake it!

It's an understatement to say that baked kale chips are a staple for us during the cooler months of the year, but you can also get creative and incorporate it into more complex baked recipes, including pies. Set the oven at a minimum of 340°F, and let the baking fun begin! 

Try it with:  Kale Boo Bars!

 Microwave it!

If you struggle with finding the time and energy to put into your homemade meals and end up with your greens going bad, microwaving them might do the trick.

Try it with:  Tricky Kale Cake

From a kale lover to another, we hope you find some time to relax in the kitchen and celebrate the good times as you channel your spooky side and create these fun and tasty kale recipes for Halloween and beyond. Be sure to share your creations with us on Facebook and Instagram, and follow us on Pinterest for all the extra cooking motivation you need to make spooktacular treats for yourself and your loved ones this month!

Adding Greens to Your Favorite Foods

A long day at the office. A stressful day with the kids. An unsatisfying lunch or lack thereof. Things like this lead us to search for our most favorite foods to make the day a little better. It’s hard to beat the pleasure of a cheesy slice of pizza or a warm gooey cookie, so who says these cravings can’t be healthy?

Feel as if that’s impossible? No worries! Start with following these few tips and tricks that we use to incorporate healthier options into our recipes. Try embracing whole-grain options, replacing butter with heart-healthy oil, and exploring lighter cheeses. Stuff your veggies where you can, don’t forget seasoning goes a long way, and learn where to make the right substitutions to get the nutrients your body needs. Before you know it, you’ll be implementing these easy changes into all of your recipes.

From our kitchen to yours, here are some recipes that have made our worst days better and our tummies a little fuller!

For all my Pizza Lovers

Barbeque Chicken Pizza with Mustard Green Pesto

A favorite meal that everyone is bound to love. Grab a bag of Nature’s Greens Mustard Greens, pick your favorite crust, and add just a few more toppings before letting this tasty pizza cook for 15 minutes. Whether you decide to share it or save it all for yourself is up to you!  

Check out the recipe!  

Mac & Cheese? Yes Please!

Collard Mac & Cheese

This go-to dish has all the same delicious ingredients plus one, collards! It only takes 10 minutes to cook and you can easily make this as a main course or a quick snack.  

We all know the cheesier the better so give it a try! View the full recipe.

Not Just a Tuesday Night Taco!

Buffalo Cauliflower Kale Tacos

Tuesdays may be taco night but this dish will have you craving them every day of the week. Grab a few tortillas, chop up some cauliflower, then add our Nature’s Greens Kale greens and a few other necessities for a yummy twist on a veggie-loving favorite.

 These tacos have all the right toppings. It’s up to you how hot you like it! Give it a try.

A Sweet Secret!

Hidden Kale Cookies

This is a sweet treat that you’ll want one too many of. This recipe calls for basic baking ingredients, a bag of our Nature’s Greens kale, and some grated carrots for a snack worth sharing!

Check out the full recipe!

We know you’re ready to get cooking so check out what Nature’s Greens products were used in these recipes below and join us on our website to find where these products are sold closest to you. Feel free to share these tasty dishes with your friends and family and leave us a few comments on what comfort foods we should transform next! Don’t forget to check us out on social media too for more tips, tricks, and recipes @naturesgreens!

Healthy Cooking for Two or Just You

When cooking for one or two, it can seem like a complete hassle. The mess alone is more overwhelming than it should be. Your fresh veggies tend to go bad before you can eat them all, and you consequently start passing up on bulk deals in fear of throwing away food you can’t consume in time. The lack of time, energy, and not knowing what to cook create major obstacles that feel like only a professional chef can overcome.

Trust us, we’ve been there. We know what it’s like to find yourself spending less and less time shopping for groceries, and more time eating heavily processed takeout or settling for sugar-high cereals.

If you’re not head over heels about cooking right now, and you hate that you hate cooking, the good news is that you’re in the right place. We’ve put together a couple of tips and paired them with a few recipes to help you feel inspired.

Your freezer is your new BFF

We’ve said this before, and we’ll say it again: Freeze your veggies! There are numerous ways to do it.

Blanch and freeze. Simply put the greens in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then remove and place in ice water to chill for 3 minutes. Next, transfer the greens into freezer bags and place them onto a baking sheet so the greens freeze flat. Pro tip: write the current day’s date on the bags so that you know how old they are in the future.

Blend and freeze. Simply add water to your greens and blend as fine as possible. Then, use silicon ice trays or silicone muffin trays to freeze blocks of greens. Once frozen, pop them out and place them into a freezer bag. You can use one or two each time you make a smoothie.

Just put the bag in the freezer. If you’ve got the space, go for it! Most leafy greens won’t freeze well this way for long, but nonetheless, it’s a great short-term solution.

Be sure to also prepare any whole grains ahead of time and…freeze! Brown rice, couscous, barley, and quinoa can all be easily heated up without losing quality. In search of healthy dessert options? Don’t overlook frozen fruits! They’re typically picked at the season’s peak when they’re their ripest, and without added ingredients like sugar, they maintain their nutritional value while helping you cut down on meal-prep times during the week.

One-Pan Wonders

Look for an all-in-one bowl or a pan recipe that helps you significantly cut down on cooking times. If the original recipe serves two, double, or triple the ingredients, and freeze the surplus for some easy weeknight meals.

Homemade burgers are one of our go-to strategies for spending less time in the kitchen. Jumpstart your meal prepping for the week while making the most of your freezer and fully satisfying your taste buds all at once. With these Salmon Collard Burgers, for instance, all you need to do is combine accessible ingredients like canned salmon, collard greens, onions, and lemon juice in a medium bowl, refrigerate for 15 minutes, and then use your hands to mold 2-4 burger patties. Cook half of it and freeze the rest for when you want a healthy dinner option, but can’t bring yourself to the cutting board.

Leftovers? There are none

Cooked too much rice? No problem, use it in a fried rice meal such as our Very Veggie Unfried Rice by adding some chopped-up veggies.

Extra meat? Throw it on a salad like our Kale Salad with Blackened Salmon for some extra protein!

Shredded too many greens? Prep them in pasta such as our Pantry Pasta for a quick meal the next day.

Regardless, we understand that getting out of a cooking rut can seem impossible at times, and even more so when the weeks are busy. So start by simplifying your meals to take away some of the mess and stress. Stock your kitchen with basic necessities, and some greens of course, and follow along with us on our blog and Pinterest for all the cooking motivation you need!

Healthy Party Dips

As summer nears its end and we begin to prepare for that perfect fall weather, there’s one important thing on all of our minds: football season! It’s go big or go home on game days around here and one thing that’s just as important as the game itself is your tailgate food.

So, what’s everyone’s go-to? A dip! Typically, because they’re quick and easy to make and a party favorite that guests love to snack on. However, most of the time dips are filled with less-than-healthy ingredients. That’s why they are one of our favorite places to sneak in a couple of extra veggies. Adding more greens will only make the dip fresher and lighter – not to mention you won’t feel as bad about having one too many scoops.

You can also make healthier choices with what you choose to dip with. Veggie dippers such as carrots, broccoli, and celery are always a great option, as well as whole-grain crackers or pita chips. Our personal favorite and a great alternative to a tortilla chip are kale chips. They’re three times as nutritious and just as delicious!

We understand that finding ways to fit more greens into your daily diet can be hard, especially on game day. That’s why we love exploring our options when it comes to implementing healthier ingredients into our favorite recipes. So, whether you’re watching the game at home with friends or tailgating near the stadium, check out some dips we’ve put together for you!

Kale Artichoke Dip

Creamy, dreamy, and delicious. Made with Nature’s Greens kale, shredded cheeses, mayonnaise, and a few other ingredients. This dip only takes 12 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook. It’s certain to leave everyone wanting more!

View the full recipe here. Courtesy of @cozypeachkitchen

Collard Dip

If collard greens are your favorite leafy green, then this is for you! All you need is a bag of Nature’s Greens collards, sour cream, chopped onions, mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, and a pack of vegetable recipe mix. Prepped and ready in just 30 minutes.

View the full recipe here.

Super Green Party Dip

Super green and super yummy. Two cups of Nature’s Greens kale, zucchini, green onions, and more. All blended together and ready to serve within minutes!

View the full recipe here. Courtesy of @cyn_sass

Mustard Greens Dip with Veggies

Pack in your mustard greens with this tasty dip! This recipe only calls for five ingredients and takes just 45 minutes to cook, the hard part will be choosing what to dip with.

View the full recipe here.

Poblano, Kale, & Artichoke Dip

Poblano Chile peppers, Nature’s Greens kale, and a bag of artichokes all combined with a few other mixings to make a dish meant to share. Have it prepped and ready in less than an hour!

View the full recipe here.

Be sure to check out even more game day recipes on our Pinterest! It’s sure to soothe your tailgate cravings.

Bringing Healthy Back to School

For many of us, back-to-school month also means back to some serious meal prepping to feed the brains and nourish the bodies of kids of all ages in our families! Make no mistake — nutrition and academic achievement go hand in hand: In fact, the CDC indicates that skipping meals or the lack of adequate, nutrient-rich food consumption is associated with decreased cognitive performance, lower student participation rates, and (you guessed!) lower grades.

Whether you need the inspiration to spice up the contents of a lunch box, a few practical recipe ideas to get your on-the-go meals in order, or even an incentive to go Meatless Monday, this collection of bowls, noodles, salads, and wraps is sure to help both you and the littles thrive in the classroom and beyond.

Make-Ahead Beans and Greens Quesadillas

We've bean thinking about this plant-based quesadilla made with corn, red bell pepper, and other seasonal veggies all summer! By incorporating other good-for-you ingredients like kale and black beans that you can also make ahead and even freeze (gasp!), we're positive you'll be wrapped with the result.

View the full recipe here!

Korean Chicken and Kale Rice Bowl

Oils, seasonings, and garnishes aside — which you can always modify to your liking — all you need to bring this recipe to life are kale, onions, chicken, cooked rice, and eggs. We know, it's hard to get easier than that! Read on to see if we can beat this quick combo with an even simpler recipe.

View the full recipe here!

Collard Greens Baked Ziti

If you love baked ziti as much as we do, try this version with collard greens and lentil pasta for extra nutrition. Complete with tomato sauce and three-cheese types, this one is as mouth-watering as it is mind-blowing.

View the full recipe here!

Super Green Pesto Wraps

If you're looking for meals on the go, wraps are your best friends! Make these super green wraps even fresher by preparing the Kale-based pesto ahead of time and keeping the other ingredients, including collard greens leaves and hummus, in separate containers for easy assembly when you're ready to eat.

View the full recipe here!

Fettuccini with Collard Greens Pesto and Grilled Shrimp

Can't get enough of pesto or pasta? Neither can we! If you haven't yet taken your plain fettuccini to Rawl status with collard greens, shrimp, and tomatoes on the vine, head right to this recipe page, spend 30 minutes max of prep and cook time combined, and thank us later for the explosion of flavors!

View the full recipe here!

Easy School Lunch

With a series of super fruits and greens like avocado and kale, the finale can only be a delectable, yet E-A-S-Y meal. Be sure to mix in some lime juice to your guacamole and add a thin layer of water on top of it before refrigerating in a container to lock in the green and keeping your guac looking and tasting its best.

View the full recipe here!

Crunchy Chickpea & Sweet Potato Kale Salad

What if we told you that you can make your own salad dressing with ingredients you likely already have in your fridge and pantry? Then bake some chickpeas and sweet potatoes and combine them with some sautéed kale when you're ready to dig in, and enJOY!

View the full recipe here!

Warm Quinoa Salad with Crispy Kale

Quinoa, zucchini, and kale are the stars of this serious salad show, with open acts by avocado oil, sun-dried tomatoes, black olives, and cilantro. If this ingredient combination doesn't rock your world, we don't know what will.

View the full recipe here!

Make sure to check us out on Instagram and Pinterest for even more delicious recipes @naturesgreens!

A Summer of Smoothies

Every summer the encouragement to start a better daily routine comes around again. Whether it be because it’s bathing suit season or the beginning of a new health journey, we get it! This summer we’ve made it a goal to start each day the right way, with a smoothie! Not just any smoothie, but one that provides us with the nutrients needed to get through the day. Whether it serves as a meal replacement or just something easy to consume on the go, smoothies are a great way to get in those healthy greens, additional protein, and some delicious fruits.

Part of this routine includes preparation, which we all know can be the real reason we tend to fall off track. That’s why using Nature’s Greens is a no-brainer for us – it comes triple washed and ready to use, meaning one less step when prepping. If you are new to smoothies, we recommend smoothie prep!

Start by laying out a Ziploc bag for each day of the week and write the day on it to help stay organized. From there, put all the needed ingredients (minus the liquid) in their bags and tuck them away in the freezer. Come morning time, empty your bag into the blender, add your needed liquid, and mix! Not only will this save you time, but freezing your fruits and veggies preserves the flavor, creates less waste, and provides a thicker texture for the smoothie.

When made the right way, smoothies are packed with vitamins, minerals, protein, and fiber. All the nutrients you need to feed and aid your body to get you through whatever you may be tackling that day. Enjoy these delicious smoothies with us this summer and comment below on more smoothie recipes we should try!

Back to Basics Smoothie

There’s nothing basic about enjoying a nutritious smoothie packed with Nature’s Greens kale and some delicious extras. You likely have these simple ingredients around the house. Blend together some kale, milk, Greek yogurt, frozen banana slices, peanut butter, and a little unsweetened cocoa powder for this deliciously green smoothie.

View full instructions here. Recipe courtesy of Nicole @fromfarmtolabel

Kale mango pineapple ginger smoothie

Sweet and fresh - this smoothie is full of fiber and protein. Blend together Nature’s Greens Kale, mango chunks, pineapple slices, Greek yogurt, coconut water, and a tablespoon of honey for some additional sweetness.

View full instructions here. Recipe courtesy of Andrea @beautifuleatsandthings

Revival Smoothie

The name speaks for itself. Having a morning like no other? Revive yourself with this smoothie! Full of Nature’s Greens Kale, frozen berries, banana, zucchini, and a few other ingredients - you’re in for a treat with this blended drink!

View full instructions here. Recipe courtesy of Emilie @tastyasfit

Make-ahead superfood meal replacement smoothie

In need of a well-balanced meal within minutes? This refreshing smoothie can do the trick! Combine Nature’s Greens Kale, pitted dates, water, almond flour, frozen blueberries, a baby beet, ginger root, and some ground turmeric and black pepper for a hydrating and healthful smoothie.

View full instructions here. Recipe courtesy of Cynthia @cyn_sass

What's Poppin'?

If you’ve never ventured into the world of fresh corn kernels or corn on the cob for your daily meals, summer is the best time to start popping some fun. Not only because corn harvesting peaks during the warm summer months, but also because the versatile veggie is best enjoyed fresh. Although canned goods have some advantages when it comes to price, convenience, storage, and transportation, they also tend to be high in sodium (as salt helps to preserve the food) and relatively lower in nutrients (as a result of the canning process). Fresh ears of sweet corn are also the quintessential cookout side! With at least six creative ways to get these ready for the family reunions you have planned for the summer, the real challenge will be not letting all the compliments go to your head!

Microwaving

Tenderizing your kernels only takes about 4 minutes of cooking time on a microwave-safe dish! Start here if everything else sounds too intimidating and work your way up to fancier preparation methods.

Try it with: Fresh Corn Relish

Boiling

The secret to achieving the best results with this method is to get enough water to both cover the corn and reach boiling point before adding your fresh bulk to the pan. Be sure to cook on medium heat, covered, for about 7 minutes - or cook over low for about 30 minutes to boost flavors from accompanying ingredients!

Try it with: Stewed Corn and Tomatoes

Steaming

A steamer basket is your best friend here. As long as you keep the water levels below the basket and cook covered on high for about 6 minutes after the water starts to boil, you should be getting some decently tender corn at the end of the process.

Try it with: Corn and Shrimp Saute

Pressure Cooking

Immerse the corn in water and cook for around two minutes after the pressure cooker reaches high temperature. It’s that simple, and you can serve it immediately or incorporate it into a recipe by quickly releasing the pressure.

Try it with: Skillet Perfect Creamed Corn

Oven Roasting

An internal temperature of about 375°F will work for most ovens and cobs. Wrap them up on aluminum foil (seasoning is optional at this point), and cook for circa 30 minutes or until you achieve your desired tenderness.

Try it with: Baked Corn on the Cob

Grilling

With a grill, you should be looking at a temperature range of 350 to 400°F. Brushing vegetable oil on the cobs is essential here, as well as charring them with the grill hood closed and flipping every third of the way through the 15-minute total grilling time.

Try it with: Grilled Corn and Veggie Toss

We hope you feel inspired to eat more fresh sweet corn this summer. Click here to learn more about why corn is one of our seasonal favorites and to find additional curated recipes for incorporating more of this nutrient-dense veggie into your diet!

Summer Grilling Made Easy

Summer is almost here! Summertime means you'll usually find us in the backyard grilling. Why do you ask? Because grilling is good for our health! 

Grilled meats have a lower calorific content compared to other dry-heat options, and that's because some of their fat naturally drips off the racks during grilling. Because food cooks faster on the high heat of the grill, it also retains more of its natural moisture, which means you won't need to add as much butter or oil to achieve that juicy result you likely already love. Plus, your after-dinner cleanup will never be the same! Yes, in addition to its health benefits, grilling significantly cuts down on your kitchen cleanup time. Bonus: A distinct smoky flavor and some mouthwatering grill marks are always a winning combination! 

We could go on about why grilling is the healthiest backyard party starter or how it's the coolest way to set up a quick, Instagram-worthy weeknight meal, but we'll cut to the chase and share a few easy grilling recipes to help both experienced and novice grill masters enjoy some charred goodness all summer long!

Kale + Baby Portabella Grilled “Cheese”

We don't know about you but say kale, portabella mushrooms, and grilled cheese, and we're sold already. Whether you're on a plant-based diet or like to spice up your homemade meals with new-to-you ingredients once in a while, this crispy and creamy sandwich is sure to fully satisfy your taste buds.

This delicious meal only takes 20 minutes to cook! Give it a try: Learn more.

Grilled Squash Bruschetta

If squash is your favorite summer veggie, then this one is for you. Complement it with red pepper slices, Mediterranean olives, fresh parsley, baguette, and your favorite seasonings for a yummy masterpiece.

Try this dish and call your friends over ASAP because you’re going to want to share the goodness!

Grilled Corn and Veggie Toss

The key ingredients you need to bring this recipe to life might just be hiding in your fridge and pantry already, including corn, black beans, diced tomatoes, and lime juice. Topped with avocado just before serving over tortilla chips or scoops, we have a hunch this will become your go-to veggie toss!

It’s the perfect dish for your next gathering, check it out here!

Fettuccini with Collard Greens Pesto and Grilled Shrimp

Say 'hello' to a new way to eat pasta this summer! Marinate shrimp in a bowl with simple pantry ingredients, and grill on each side for 2-3 minutes. Go ahead and grill some tomatoes as well, and combine your charred ingredients with pesto and your choice of noodles for a taste of summer magic.

You can’t beat this quick and easy 10-minute meal! Learn more here.

Grilled Veggies and BBQ Steak

Corn, filet steaks, squash, and all that good stuff in less than 20 minutes of prep time! Let your steak stand in barbeque sauce for at least 10 minutes and toss some of the mix on your squash for a truly magical result. Butter and salt are great, but sometimes all you need to experience dinner perfection is a bottle of BBQ sauce.

Got the grill fired up? Give this meal a try!

Remember that you don't need to have a professional grill to try these delicious recipes at home. Get started with a grill pan, and work your way up to built-in pieces for your outdoor or indoor kitchen. Don’t forget we also offer hundreds of recipes on our website that are waiting for you to try! However, you grill, be sure to tag us on Instagram (@naturesgreens) and Facebook (@WPRawl) to share your creations with us this summer!

5 Ways to Eat More Leafy Greens

These kitchen tricks will make preparing leafy greens SO much easier

If you're reading this, there's a strong chance you already know leafy greens are GOOD for you. But in case you or someone in your life (ahem) need a little reminder, kale, collards, turnips, and mustard greens are generally very low in calories. What they lack in calorific content, they make up for in terms of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. It's no wonder then that a diet rich in these nutrient-dense leafy greens helps to reduce the risk of obesity, heart disease, high-blood pressure, and mental decline, among other numerous health benefits. The healthy living journey starts with adding these life-saving ingredients to more of your meals, and attaining that goal is easier than you think with some smart meal prep tips.

Get Some Serious Salads

Salads are the easiest way to incorporate several servings of fruits and veggies into your diet. Be careful, however, as they are not necessarily synonymous with "health food." By avoiding anything fried, cooling it on the cheese, ditching the croutons, and dialing back the dressing, you have a better shot at ensuring that the salads you eat are, in fact, nutritious. Because eating salad once or twice a month isn't going to cut it, we've made it easy for you to get your weekly salad fix with our curated selection of salad recipes you can make from scratch in no time.

Learn more: Everything you need to find delicious salads for any occasion in one place!

Wrap it with Collards

Collards are the new wrap. Period. If you keep the collard stems on, they remain sturdy enough to work pretty much like a tortilla and hold your favorite sandwich or burrito fillings. They can also be stored in the refrigerator to make it easy to put together a quick lunch or dinner meal. Make it a combo by overlapping two to three leaves for a larger wrap, and get ready to crush your green-eating goals.

Try it: Protein Collard Wraps, 140 calories per serving, and only 30 minutes of prep time.

Blanch Like a Pro

Some nutrient-dense greens, including mustard greens, kale, and turnip greens, can have a slightly bitter flavor that doesn't appeal to every taste. We get it. But brace yourself for a true knowledge bomb: Most of that bitterness melts away when you wilt your greens in boiling water for a couple minutes, drain, and run cold tap water over them to cool quickly and fix their bright green color. You can then season or sauté your blanched greens, and enjoy them as a side or mix them straight into your dishes.

Try it: Sesame Ginger Collard Wrap, ready in less than 20 minutes!

Prepare to Be Inspired

A little bit of preparation goes a long way towards eating more wholesome, nutrient-dense foods. When you're prepping for the week ahead, get creative and consider replacing some traditional carbs with leafy greens you already have on-hand. In the unlikely scenario you won't use up all your greens before they expire, freeze them (fresh or blanched) in batches for a longer shelf life and some easy creations later in the week. Think quicker stir-fries, pastas, and soups that taste good. Really good.

Learn more: How to Use a 1 lb. Bag of Kale Before It Expires!

Smoothie Away

Smoothies are another great way to work more leafy greens into your diet, reduce food waste, AND get the little ones on board too. They are versatile enough to be enjoyed for breakfast, as a snack, or even as a dessert option. Plus, they come together super quickly, and we promise they will work some serious magic on both your brain and bod.

Just the tip: You can reduce the amount of liquids in any green smoothie recipe and pour your extra-thick creation into a bowl with sliced fruits, seeds, grains, and any other solid foods you like.

Hello, April!

It's no joke that April is one of our favorite months of the year! On our farms, we have plenty of seed sowing and planting to do, but it’s also time to rejoice in harvesting our late winter and early spring crops. At home, our dinner plates start to become decorated with the unique flavors and colors of seasonal greens and fresh bulk, including mustard greens, green onions, turnips, leeks and beets. With Easter—and, depending on where you are in the country, Patriot's Day—those who celebrate also have a chance to gather the family around the table for unforgettable holiday meals.

Eating Seasonal

This April, we want to help you make the most out of spring produce. Why? There's growing evidence that seasonal food is better for your health, the environment, your palate and your pocket. That's right! Foods grown and consumed during the appropriate seasons are more flavorful and nutrient-dense, and because they are harvested at the right time, they don't have to travel as far to get to your grocery bag, which in turn reduces carbon-fuel emissions. Because seasonal greens are more abundant in the market, they also tend to be available at lower prices. Now that's a magic combo!

If you're shopping for seasonal produce this month, here are some easy (and delicious!) recipes we recommend you keep in mind:

• Braised Mustard Greens with Bacon

• Turnip Greens with Caramelized Onions

• Coleslaw with Pineapple and Raisins

• Turnip Greens Strata

Pro Tip: DYK you can search for recipes on our website by veggie, course, or theme? Click here to give it a try.

Reducing Food Waste

You can't reap all the benefits of seasonal food, however, without working to reduce food waste. Brace yourself for some surprising statistics here: Data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture shows that the average U.S. household wastes 32% of its food! In money terms, wasted food amounts to $240 billion—or $1,866 per household. And holidays/national days (we see you, Easter!) are notorious for the amount of food that gets discarded.

One way you can reduce waste and help minimize your environmental footprint this month is to get creative with your leftover food by incorporating them in new recipes. Have too much ham from Easter dinner? Use it up in this delicious Holiday Casserole or this Lucky Ham Turnip Greens recipe. Not sure what to do with the extra carrots? Revamp them with our Ginger, Carrot, Raisin & Collard Salad. You don't have to be eating the same holiday food for days or throw them away to be able to diversify your post-holiday meal experiences!

Follow these tips, and be sure to let us know in the comments or on social media how you're celebrating the arrival of spring by eating fresh, seasonal produce and reducing your food waste!