I think if you could add one food to your diet, greens would make the biggest impact. The concentration of nutrients (A, C, E, K, iron, folate, magnesium, calcium) makes it an important addition to meals. We’re talking bone and blood health, and immunity. This is good stuff.

Like many of us, I did not grow up eating greens, save for canned spinach (oh lord, I shall never touch the stuff again). It just wasn’t an era of fresh vegetables. Our journey as vegetarians and farmers led us to the numerous delicious greens available. Collard greens, kale, and swiss chard are amongst my favorites.

I personally do not like greens stewed until they are mush or the addition of pork, as is traditional. I will either sauté the greens in olive oil and garlic with a little hot pepper, but more often, I bake them. That’s right, get the air fryer/toaster oven out (or the regular stove works too!) and let’s get some greens on the table!

Ten Minute Greens

• If using collard greens, cut the thick center stalk out. I don’t bother removing it for any other kind of green. Roll the leaves and chiffonade (slice). I turn the board and slice through again so I have smaller pieces.
• Place on a baking sheet. Drizzle well with olive oil.
• Chop a few cloves of garlic and sprinkle around.
• One could also top with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, nutritional yeast, red pepper, etc
• Stir to combine then bake at 350 degrees for 10 minutes. The edges get crispy and the center of the pan is just savory deliciousness.

Doug and I eat a huge bundle of greens between the two of us (leaving a little for our puppy, who loves greens too!). Adding greens to your diet will certainly help you welcome in a healthier new year!