Escarole substitutes
Escarole substitutes — 5 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Endive
Same amount as the escarole
Escarole is a bitter leafy green that can be substituted with endive, radicchio, or arugula for similar bitter flavor profiles.
- Verdict —
- Works
- Best for —
- salads
Updated 19 Aug 2026 · no sponsored swaps
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of escarole | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Endivesalads | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 2 | Radicchiosalads | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 3 | Arugulasalads | Same amountYou'll taste it | You'll taste it |
| 4 | Chicoryraw applications | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 5 | Dandelion greenssalads | Same amountWorks | Works |
Endive
similar taste and texture
Similar bitter flavor and texture.
- Best for
- salads, cooked dishes, soups
Similar bitter flavor and texture, works well in salads and cooked dishes.
Radicchio
similar taste and texture
Bitter red leafy green with similar texture.
- Best for
- salads, grilling, roasting
Bitter red leafy green, good for salads and grilling.
Arugula
different taste and texture
Peppery bitter green with different texture.
- Best for
- salads, pasta dishes, pizza
Peppery bitter green, excellent in salads and pasta dishes.
Chicory
similar taste and texture
Similar bitter flavor with different appearance.
- Best for
- raw applications, cooked dishes, salads
Similar bitter flavor, good for both raw and cooked applications.
Dandelion greens
similar taste and texture
Bitter leafy green with similar properties.
- Best for
- salads, sautés, soups
Bitter leafy green, works well in salads and sautés.
Questions
3 questionsWhat is escarole?
Escarole is a type of endive with broad, slightly bitter leaves that are commonly used in Mediterranean cuisine.
Can I use escarole in place of lettuce?
Yes, but escarole has a more bitter flavor than most lettuces, so it's better suited for dishes that can handle that bitterness.
How do I store escarole?
Wrap in damp paper towels and store in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Tips for substituting escarole
4 tips- Escarole's bitterness mellows when cooked, making it good for soups and sautés
- For salads, balance the bitterness with sweet or creamy ingredients
- The inner leaves are milder than the outer leaves
- Can be used both raw and cooked in the same dish for textural contrast