Out of Kale, one case
Baby kale substitutes
5 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Baby spinach
Same amount as the kale
For baby kale, the best substitutes are baby spinach (mild flavor), arugula (peppery), Swiss chard (earthy), or escarole (mild bitter). Baby spinach is the most versatile and widely available option.
- Best for —
- salads
One casethe full kale card
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of kale |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Baby spinachsalads | Same amount |
| 2 | Arugulasalads | Same amount |
| 3 | Swiss chardsoups | Same amount |
| 4 | Escarolesoups | Same amount |
| 5 | Regular spinachsoups | Same amount |
Baby spinach
Tender, mild-flavored green that's good for salads and quick cooking
- Best for
- salads, smoothies, soups, pasta dishes, quiches
- Cooking time
- 1-2 minutes
Most tender option, works in any recipe.
Arugula
Peppery, tender green with bold flavor and delicate texture
- Best for
- salads, pizza, pasta dishes, soups (added at end)
- Cooking time
- 1-2 minutes
Add at the end of cooking, great for salads.
Swiss chard
Tender green with mild, earthy flavor and similar texture
- Best for
- soups, stir-fries, braised dishes, pasta dishes
- Cooking time
- 3-5 minutes
Use young, tender leaves for best texture.
Escarole
Mild bitter green with tender leaves and good for cooking
- Best for
- soups, salads, braised dishes, pasta dishes
- Cooking time
- 3-5 minutes
Less bitter than mature kale, great for Italian cuisine.
Regular spinach
Mild, sweet flavor with tender texture when young
- Best for
- soups, stir-fries, pasta dishes, quiches
- Cooking time
- 2-3 minutes
Cook quickly, add at the end.
The longer answer
About this case
When you don't have baby kale, these tender leafy green substitutes will work well. Each substitute has its own texture and flavor profile, so choose based on your recipe and desired taste.
Tips for substituting kale
8 tips- Baby kale is more tender and less bitter than mature kale
- No massaging needed for baby kale - use fresh
- Great for salads, smoothies, and quick-cooking dishes
- Store in refrigerator crisper drawer wrapped in damp paper towel
- Use within 3-5 days for best flavor and texture
- Pair with light dressings and fresh ingredients
- Can be eaten raw in salads without preparation
- Freeze for smoothies and soups
Questions
5 questionsWhat's the difference between baby kale and regular kale?
Baby kale is harvested when young, making it more tender and less bitter than mature kale. It doesn't need massaging and works well in salads.
Can I use baby spinach instead of baby kale?
Yes, baby spinach is an excellent substitute for baby kale. It has a milder flavor and is more widely available.
What's the best baby kale substitute for salad?
Baby spinach or arugula work best for salad. They have tender textures and mild flavors that work well raw.
Can I use baby kale in smoothies?
Yes, baby kale works great in smoothies. It has a milder flavor than mature kale and blends easily.
What's the best baby kale substitute for soup?
Baby spinach or Swiss chard work best for soup. They have tender textures and mild flavors that work well in quick-cooking soups.