What's the Best Substitute for Escarole?
Whether you're out of Escarole or looking for a healthier alternative, finding the right substitute can save your recipe. Bitter leafy green vegetable with broad, slightly curly leaves, commonly used in Mediterranean cuisine In this guide, we'll explore the best substitutes that work in most recipes and help you achieve similar results.
Quick Answer
Escarole is a bitter leafy green that can be substituted with endive, radicchio, or arugula for similar bitter flavor profiles.
Best Substitutes for Escarole
Endive
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- salads
- cooked dishes
- soups
Description
Similar bitter flavor and texture
Similar bitter flavor and texture, works well in salads and cooked dishes
Radicchio
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- salads
- grilling
- roasting
Description
Bitter red leafy green with similar texture
Bitter red leafy green, good for salads and grilling
Arugula
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- salads
- pasta dishes
- pizza
Description
Peppery bitter green with different texture
Peppery bitter green, excellent in salads and pasta dishes
Chicory
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- raw applications
- cooked dishes
- salads
Description
Similar bitter flavor with different appearance
Similar bitter flavor, good for both raw and cooked applications
Dandelion Greens
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- salads
- sautés
- soups
Description
Bitter leafy green with similar properties
Bitter leafy green, works well in salads and sautés
How to Choose the Right Substitute
When choosing a substitute for Escarole, consider the recipe's requirements for taste, texture, and cooking method. Think about whether you need something that mimics the original exactly or if a different but complementary flavor would work. Also consider dietary restrictions and availability of ingredients.
Cooking Tips
Escarole's bitterness mellows when cooked, making it perfect 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
Always taste and adjust seasonings when using substitutes
Consider the cooking method - some substitutes work better in certain applications