Best Kale Substitutes
What Can I Use Instead of Kale in a Recipe?
Use the same amount as the original. Use equal volume of fresh spinach. Spinach is more tender and milder; wilts faster when cooked. Works well in soups and smoothies but lacks kale's hearty texture in raw salads.
Need to replace Kale in a recipe? These 3 alternatives have you covered. From pantry staples to specialty swaps, this guide walks through every practical Kale replacement you can use in cooking and baking — with the ratios you need to get it right. Ideal if you need to save money at the store. The top pick is Spinach — it's the closest match for most recipes. Use equal volume of fresh spinach. Spinach is more tender and milder; wilts faster when cooked. Works well in soups and smoothies but lacks kale's hearty texture in raw salads.
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Get ratios for Kale →All Kale Substitutes (3 options)
Use equal volume of fresh spinach. Spinach is more tender and milder; wilts faster when cooked. Works well in soups and smoothies but lacks kale's hearty texture in raw salads.
Cabbage is milder, crispier, and less nutrient-dense than kale. Use 1:1 by volume; it wilts faster and lacks kale's robust, slightly bitter flavor. Best for slaws and stir-fries.
Both are hearty leafy greens with similar structure. Collard greens are slightly milder and may require a few minutes longer cooking.
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Tips for Substituting Kale
For most recipes, Spinach is the best starting point. Use equal volume of fresh spinach. Spinach is more tender and milder; wilts faster when cooked. Works well in soups and smoothies but lacks kale's hearty texture in raw salads. Watching your grocery budget? Cabbage is the most wallet-friendly swap and does a solid job in most uses. If you're unsure which Kale substitute to use, think about why the original is in the recipe: flavor, texture, moisture, or binding? Choose the substitute that best matches that function.
Common Questions About Kale Substitutes
The best substitute for Kale is Spinach. Use the same amount. Use equal volume of fresh spinach. Spinach is more tender and milder; wilts faster when cooked. Works well in soups and smoothies but lacks kale's hearty texture in raw salads.
This guide lists 3 Kale alternatives. The best one depends on your recipe, dietary needs, and what you have on hand — check the substitution cards above for details on each.
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