Did you know that kale has been on dinner plates for over 2,000 years? It’s a powerhouse of nutrients, sure, but sometimes you just need to shake things up a bit.
Maybe you’re out of kale, or perhaps you’re looking to explore new flavors and textures in your dishes.
We get it, variety is the spice of life! That’s why we’ve dug deep to bring you the top 5 substitutes for kale that will keep your meals exciting and nutritious.
From leafy alternatives that pack a punch in flavor to others that might surprise you with their flexibility, we’re about to take your culinary adventures to new heights. Ready to discover fresh flavors and make your dishes pop?
What’s the Fuzz about Kale?
Kale’s been rockin’ the veggie scene longer than any of us have been around, and its street cred comes from more than just its nutrient-rich profile.
This leafy green is a jack-of-all-trades in the kitchen. It’s not just for salads; kale can be sautéed, baked into chips, or even thrown into a smoothie for an extra green kick.
Originating from the cabbage family, it’s got a bold flavor that can stand up to hearty dishes. Plus, its sturdy leaves mean it can last longer in your fridge compared to other greens, making it a solid pick for meal prep enthusiasts.
With varieties ranging from curly to dinosaur (yep, you heard that right – dinosaur kale is a thing), there’s a kale type out there for every taste and recipe.
5 Best Kale Substitutes to Try
1 – Arugula
Here’s why you should consider swapping your usual greens for arugula. Arugula has a peppery flavor that can jazz up salads or sandwiches in a way that milder greens like spinach or lettuce can’t. Think of it as spinach’s cool, edgy cousin.
Using arugula? It’s versatile. Use it in salads, sandwiches, or wilt it into pasta for a peppery kick.
Remember, arugula has a bolder flavor, so you might want to use less at first and adjust to taste. It’s not a strict 1:1 swap – start with half the amount you’d use of other greens and go from there.
Arugula can add a flavorful punch to meals with minimal fuss. Try it and spice up your next dish!
2 – Beet Greens
Beet greens might seem unusual, but they’re perfect if you’re into zero-waste cooking or want more value for money.
They’re easy to use, too. Swap them in for spinach or kale anywhere.
They have a slightly sweet, earthy taste but aren’t too strong. Raw, they add crunch to salads. Cooked, they’re great in pastas, soups, or as a side. Use them just like spinach or kale, adjusting to taste.
Choosing beet greens helps reduce food waste and boosts your meals’ nutrition. Plus, using the whole beet feels great. Try them in your next dish for a subtle, earthy flavor!
3 – Bok Choy
Bok Choy might not be the first veggie that comes to mind when you want to mix up your greens, but it’s definitely worth considering.
Why? It’s crisp, fresh, and has a mild flavor that’s great for those who aren’t fans of strong-tasting greens. Think of it as the friendly neighbor of the vegetable world – always welcome and never too much.
Using bok choy is simple. Slice it for some crunch in salads, add it to a stir-fry, or steam it for a side dish.
Its sturdy leaves are great for cooking, making it versatile. Swap in bok choy for other greens using a 1:1 ratio when cooked, but add a bit more when eating it raw since its flavor is milder.
Bok choy is perfect for anyone wanting to refresh their greens without overwhelming flavors. It offers a gentle, tasty addition to meals without overpowering the dish.
4 – Cabbage
Alright, let’s talk cabbage – the unsung hero of the veggie aisle.
Why add cabbage? It brings a crunchy texture and a hint of sweetness to your dishes. Plus, it’s super versatile. Think of cabbage as the quiet kid who’s actually good at everything.
How to use cabbage as a substitute? It can replace almost any leafy green, especially in cooked recipes.
Chop it for stir-fries, slaws, or add it to soups for extra crunch and sweetness. Raw, it’s great in salads or as a taco topping.
For cooking, use cabbage in a 1:1 swap. If it’s raw for salads, slice it thin and consider using a little less, as its flavor is stronger than some greens.
5 – Collard Greens
Collard greens are the sturdy, reliable backpack of leafy greens – always got your back in various dishes.
Why are they great substitutes? Their hearty texture and mild, smoky flavor. Unlike frillier greens, collards withstand serious cooking without disintegrating.
Swapping in collard greens is a breeze. They shine in dishes that need a green that won’t wilt – like soups, stews, and slow-cooked meals.
They’re also great lightly sautéed with garlic and oil. Plus, use them as a clever wrap for burritos or spring rolls for a fresh, low-carb twist.
For swapping ratios, collard greens are thick; use them 1:1 for cooked dishes but less if raw, adjusting to taste.
Andrew Gray is a seasoned food writer and blogger with a wealth of experience in the restaurant and catering industries. With a passion for all things delicious, Andrew has honed his culinary expertise through his work as a personal chef and caterer.
His love for food led him to venture into food writing, where he has contributed to various online publications, sharing his knowledge and insights on the culinary world. As the proud owner of CooksCrafter.com, Andrew covers a wide range of topics, including recipes, restaurant reviews, product recommendations, and culinary tips.
Through his website, he aims to inspire and educate fellow food enthusiasts, offering a comprehensive resource for all things food-related.