Out of Kale, one case
Kale substitutes for smoothies
5 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Spinach
Same amount as the kale
For smoothies, the best kale substitutes are spinach (mild flavor), Swiss chard (similar nutrition), arugula (peppery), or baby spinach (extra tender). Spinach is the most popular and versatile option.
- Best for —
- green smoothies
One casethe full kale card
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of kale |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Spinachgreen smoothies | Same amount |
| 2 | Swiss chardgreen smoothies | Same amount |
| 3 | Arugulasavory smoothies | Same amount |
| 4 | Baby spinachdelicate smoothies | Same amount |
| 5 | Collard greensgreen smoothies | Same amount |
Spinach
Mild, sweet flavor that blends easily and doesn't overpower other ingredients
- Best for
- green smoothies, fruit smoothies, protein smoothies, detox smoothies
- Cooking time
- No cooking needed
Most popular choice, blends smoothly.
Swiss chard
Similar nutritional profile to kale with milder flavor
- Best for
- green smoothies, detox smoothies, protein smoothies, vegetable smoothies
- Cooking time
- No cooking needed
Use young, tender leaves for best texture.
Arugula
Peppery flavor that adds a nice kick to smoothies
- Best for
- savory smoothies, green smoothies, detox smoothies, vegetable smoothies
- Cooking time
- No cooking needed
Use sparingly due to strong flavor.
Baby spinach
Extra tender spinach leaves with mild, sweet flavor
- Best for
- delicate smoothies, fruit smoothies, green smoothies, protein smoothies
- Cooking time
- No cooking needed
Most tender option, blends very smoothly.
Collard greens
Nutrient-dense green with earthy flavor
- Best for
- green smoothies, detox smoothies, protein smoothies, vegetable smoothies
- Cooking time
- No cooking needed
Use young, tender leaves for best texture.
The longer answer
About this case
When making smoothies and you don't have kale, these leafy green substitutes will work well. Each substitute has its own flavor profile and blending characteristics, so choose based on your smoothie type and desired taste.
Tips for substituting kale
8 tips- Use fresh, tender leaves for best blending results
- Wash all greens thoroughly before using
- Start with small amounts and adjust to taste
- Blend greens with liquid first for smoother texture
- Add frozen fruits to help mask bitter flavors
- Use strong-flavored fruits like mango or pineapple to balance greens
- Add lemon juice to brighten the flavor
- Store smoothies in refrigerator for up to 24 hours
Questions
5 questionsCan I use spinach instead of kale in smoothies?
Yes, spinach is the best substitute for kale in smoothies. It has a milder flavor, blends more easily, and is more widely available.
How do I make kale smoothies less bitter?
Use young, tender kale leaves, add sweet fruits like mango or pineapple, and include lemon juice to brighten the flavor. You can also massage the kale first.
What's the best kale substitute for green smoothies?
Spinach is the best substitute for green smoothies. It has a mild flavor and blends smoothly without overpowering other ingredients.
Can I use frozen greens in smoothies?
Yes, frozen greens work great in smoothies. They blend easily and help create a thicker, colder smoothie texture.
What's the best kale substitute for protein smoothies?
Spinach or Swiss chard work best for protein smoothies. They have mild flavors that won't interfere with protein powder and other ingredients.