A Day to Celebrate Kale – October 4th

 Kale is considered a nutritional powerhouse as it is packed with a ton of vitamins, contains zero fat and is a high-fiber vegetable. As healthy diets and nutritional eating continue to be a focus of our society, restaurants are working hard to ensure that this queen of the greens is included on their menus.   Located in La Mesa, just East of San Diego, Farmer’s Table brings locally sourced organic ingredients in an inviting atmosphere. Many of the restaurant’s menu items include the trendy and leafy-green, such as the Baby Kale salad. A refreshing mix of oranges, pomegranate seeds, plump blueberries and candied walnuts are tossed in a citrus vinaigrette. To kick your salad up a notch, protein, such as chicken, succulent shrimp or tender steak can be added.  Stop in to Union Kitchen & Tap, in the Gaslamp District, to experience their inventive American cuisine, like the Pan Roasted Scottish Salmon. Tasty and loaded with veggies, this fish is served with heirloom tomatoes, Romanesco broccoli, and a light citronette sauce. Fava beans and favetta, a purée of broad beans, is combined with purple kale to put the finishing touch on this gluten-free seafood dish. A nice full-bodied chardonnay, like the J. Lohr “Riverstone” from Monterey, CA, would pair perfectly with this! Recently opened in the heart of Rancho Santa Fe, Nick & G’s is a family-friendly restaurant with a menu built around the tastiest in Mediterranean/Italian dining. From appetizers and salads, to flatbreads and pastas, Nick & G’s has something for everyone in your family. Try a cup of the warm and hearty Toscana soup, made with fennel sausage, Tuscan kale and pearl potatoes.   Backyard Kitchen & Tap, near the corner of Garnet Ave and Mission Boulevard, is a chic yet cozy coastal American eatery that fits perfectly with the laid-back vibe of Pacific Beach. With a large pet-friendly patio and indoor/outdoor bar, this neighborhood joint offers the perfect culinary experience for everyone. You’ll surely want to sink your teeth into the Jerk Chicken, a Backyard favorite made with Mary’s boneless chicken, marble potatoes, sautéed kale and onions, scallion pesto, chili oil and balsamic reduction.   As soon as you step foot through the doors at Farmer’s Bottega, located in Mission Hills, you’ll notice the warm and welcoming atmosphere.  For a light and healthy lunch, try their version of a Baby Kale salad which comes with a kick. Butternut squash tossed in a crisp citrus vinaigrette complements smoky bacon and caramelized pecans, topped with aged manchego. For an Italian-style salad, try the Kale & Blueberry from Dolce at the Highlands, in Carmel Valley. Crafted with Tuscan kale, bulgur wheat and flaxseed granola, this dish is packed with healthy ingredients and is lightly tossed in lemon olive oil and feta cheese to add flavor. A simple salad loaded with fiber, iron and Vitamin K, you can top this salad with chicken or salmon for additional protein. If you’re unsure of how enjoyable kale can be, and are looking for meals packed with protein and full of flavor, celebrate Kale day tomorrow!