🥬 Lacinato

Best Lacinato Kale Substitutes: Complete Guide

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Quick Answer

For lacinato kale, the best substitutes are Swiss chard (similar texture), collard greens (sturdy), escarole (mild), or regular curly kale (more bitter). Swiss chard is the closest match in texture and cooking properties.

Best Substitutes

Swiss Chard

1:1

Similar flat, tender texture and mild flavor to lacinato kale

Best for:

soupsstir-friesbraised dishespasta dishessalads

Cook stems first, then add leaves

Collard Greens

1:1

Large, flat leaves with robust flavor and similar cooking properties

Best for:

soupsbraised dishesstir-friessouthern-style cooking

Remove tough stems, needs longer cooking

Escarole

1:1

Mild bitter green with tender leaves and good for cooking

Best for:

soupssaladsbraised dishespasta dishes

Less bitter than kale, great for Italian cuisine

Regular Curly Kale

1:1

More bitter and tougher than lacinato kale but same nutritional benefits

Best for:

soupsstir-friesbraised dishessalads (massaged)

Remove tough stems, massage for salads

Bok Choy

1:1

Asian green with crisp stems and tender leaves

Best for:

stir-friessoupsbraised dishesAsian cuisine

Cook stems first, then add leaves

Cooking Tips

  • 💡Lacinato kale has flat, dark green leaves and is more tender than curly kale
  • 💡Remove tough stems from all leafy greens before cooking
  • 💡Lacinato kale is great for soups, stir-fries, and braised dishes
  • 💡Store in refrigerator crisper drawer wrapped in damp paper towel
  • 💡Use within 3-5 days for best flavor and texture
  • 💡Pairs well with garlic, lemon, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese
  • 💡Can be eaten raw in salads when young and tender
  • 💡Freeze blanched leaves for longer storage

Frequently Asked Questions

Summary

Discover the best substitutes for lacinato kale (dinosaur kale). Learn about Swiss chard, collard greens, escarole, and other leafy green alternatives with cooking tips and flavor profiles.