u003ca href=u0022https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-massage-kale-explainedu0022 target=u0022_blanku0022 rel=u0022noreferrer noopeneru0022u003eMassaging kale u003c/au003eleaves helps to break down their cell structure and gives the leaves a softer texture that’s better suited to salads. It can make it easier to digest, too.u003cbr/u003eu003cbr/u003eThe trick to using the curly green variety of kale in a salad is to tenderize it first. All you need to do is remove the tough center rib of the leaves, drizzle it with a teaspoon each of olive oil and lemon juice and a pinch of salt and work it into each leaf with your fingers.u003cbr/u003eu003cbr/u003eHowever, if you don't want to massage kale leaves, you can simply chop them very finely. You'll find that the leaves will soften naturally all on their own when they come into contact with a vinaigrette. u003cbr/u003eu003cbr/u003eI recommend using baby kale leaves whenever they're available!