New Year's Day "Good Luck" Black Eyed Pea and Collard Greens Soup:

Dear Margaret,

I loovvve your NYE party look picks.. especially Kate the Great in her black cut out dress! I have a dress very similar but with leather detailing that I may wear if we go out.. otherwise I will be in my cashmere sweater and Uggs like you:)

The only tradition I follow associated with New Years is eating black eyed peas for good luck..even if you don't like them you better take a bite:) Here is my favorite healthy recipe I found at Whole Foods to make for New Years Day that is a crowd pleaser due to the savory ham and comfort of a warm soup.. not to mention chock full of nutrition. It's so easy and delicious and full of good luck:)

Black Eyed Pea and Collard Greens Soup:

Ingredients: 

• 2 cups dried black-eyed peas
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 large yellow onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
• 1/2 pound cooked Black Forest ham or smoked turkey breast, cut into small cubes (optional)
• 2 stalks celery, chopped
• 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 bunch collard greens, tough stems and ribs removed, leaves thinly sliced
• 4 carrots, chopped
• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
• Ground black pepper to taste
• Cayenne pepper to taste

Method: 

Carefully pick through peas to remove any debris or small stones and rinse well. Transfer to a large bowl, cover by 3 inches with water, cover and set aside at room temperature for 8 hours or overnight; drain and rinse well.

Heat oil over medium heat in a large pot. Add onion, garlic, ham and celery and cook until onion is translucent, 5 to 8 minutes. Add peas and broth, bring to a boil and skim off and discard any foam on the surface. Reduce heat and simmer, partially covered, until peas are tender, about 45 minutes. Add collard greens and carrots and simmer until tender, 15 to 20 minutes more. Season with salt, pepper and cayenne and serve.

*Serve with toasted crusty bread and even a dollop of Greek yogurt if you like for creaminess and added protein.

Enjoy!

xoxo,

Kara

recipe/picture courtesy of www.wholefoodsmarket.com