In summer, vegetable choices abound. But during the cooler months, there are fewer in-season choices -- with the exception of Kale and other dark, leafy greens that thrive in cooler weather.
To find the freshest Kale, look for firm, deeply colored leaves with hardy stems. Smaller leaves will be more tender and milder in flavor. Leaves range from dark green to purple to deep red in color.
Store Kale, unwashed, in an air-tight zipped plastic bag for up to five days in the refrigerator.