Thinking Green
It's the Perfect Season for Kale

When most other vegetables shiver and die off, kale and other cooking greens sweeten up and tempt. Cooking greens have fallen out of favor in modern kitchens, like most foods that require some time and skill to prepare. But it’s worth the effort to learn how to grow and handle greens, which make a wonderful winter crop in warmer areas and a welcome change of pace on the holiday table. Kale is one of the more versatile 'greens', coming in shades of green, blue, pink, white and gray with leaves that are puckered or down right ruffled. They are as beautiful to look at as they are tasty to eat.

• Harvesting Kale and Cabbage
• Cool Season Vegetable Gardening
• Cooking Greens Recipes

Photo: © Marie Iannotti (2008) licensed to About.com, Inc.