Italian Baked Potatoes with Kale and Tomatoes

Happy New Year! I can't believe it's already 2014! The new year brings with it a fresh start and I've got a fresh batch of recipes to help keep myself on track. The holiday indulgences are over so it's time to start indulging in healthy ways! First up is my Italian Baked Potatoes with Kale and Tomatoes. It is a quick and easy side dish or meal that will help you eat more greens and tickle your taste buds.

Italian Baked Potatoes with Kale and Tomatoes
2 Russet Potatoes, halved
4 Cups Kale, chopped
2 Garlic Cloves
1 Can Diced Tomatoes
1 8 oz Can Tomato Sauce
2 Tablespoon Fresh Basil, chopped
1 Cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese
Salt and Pepper to Taste
Olive Oil

Pre heat oven to 400 degrees. Slice each potato in half and rub with olive oil. Place white side down on a parchment paper lined baking sheet. Sprinkle the potatoes with kosher salt. Bake until fork tender, about 30-40 minutes. Depending on the size of the potato. 

While the potatoes are baking, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large pot. Saute onions until they start to soften. Add in the garlic and saute 2 minutes. Add in the chopped kale and stir carefully. Keep stirring until the leaves was wilted down. about 3 minutes. Add in a can of diced tomatoes, undrained. Stir to incorporate. Add in the tomatoes sauce and stir to incorporate. Season and salt and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning if desired. Stir in fresh chopped basil. 

Once the potatoes are done cooking cut a small sliver off the skin side so they sit flat on the cooking sheet. Top each potato half with the kale and tomatoes. Top with the mozzarella cheese and broil until the cheese starts to turn golden brown. Just make sure you watch them so you don't burn the cheese. 

If you’re making these to eat throughout the week, heat the oven to 350 degrees. Top each potato half with the kale and tomato mixture and top with the cheese. Cooked until the cheese is melted and the potato is heated through. About 15 minutes. You can also do this in the microwave.