Italian Kale and Lemon Salad

“Whaever you can do, or dream you can, begin it. Boldness has genius, power and magic in it.” -W.H. Murray

I know that this quote has a bit of a new age ring about it, but the simple truth of it really struck me this week. I like that it says that if you have something you are are reaching for, just “begin it”. Not anything as daunting as “achieve it” or “conquer it”, but simply put one foot in front of the other to start towards that shining horizon of a dream and work it out along the way. It reminds me of the Nike slogan “Just Do It”, which I’ve always had as a personal slogan. Its encouraging to me because I feel that this is about all I have done with all of my big plans of moving, starting a new career and all of that, is to walk boldly in that direction and trust that, things will work out somehow (whatever THAT means!)
Speaking of boldness, this is a delicous zingy springtime salad, bursting with bright lemon and cheesy deliciousness. The key is to let the garlic, lemon and oil sit together long enough to mellow the garlic and to integrate the flavors. You also really want to massage the dressing into the kale as that helps to soften the kale and make it easier to eat. Since there are so few ingredients, each one is important, so get the best Parmesan you can. You will be able to taste the difference!

Italian Kale and Lemon Salad
2 medium cloves garlic, minced VERY finely
1 bunch of lacinto kale, destemmed, washed and chopped finely
3 tablespoons lemon juice (about of one large lemon)
Zest of one lemon
1/4 cups extra virgin olive oil
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 cup finely shredded Parmesan cheese
1. Make a paste with the garlic and salt, by smashing on a cutting board with the side of a knife. Add the lemon juice and its zest and stir into garlic paste. Add the oil and let marinate together while you clean and chop the kale.
2. Toss the kale with the lemon-oil mixture and massage into the kale leaves until completely coated. Let sit for 30 minutes.
3. Shred the Parmesan cheese into a bowl. Add cheese and toss.