The best substitute for escarole depends on the recipe. Use curly endive or radicchio for mild bitterness, kale or chard for sturdy cooked greens, spinach for quick wilting, and romaine or arugula for raw salads.
Best Substitutes
| Substitute | Best for | How it compares |
|---|---|---|
| Curly endive | Salads and soups | Closest bitter-green family match |
| Radicchio | Salads, grilling, sauteing | More colorful and more bitter |
| Kale | Soups, stews, beans | Sturdier and longer cooking |
| Spinach | Quick soups and pasta | Milder and wilts faster |
| Swiss chard | Sauteed greens and soups | Earthier with tender stems |
| Romaine | Raw salads | Crunchy but less bitter |
| Arugula | Raw salads and finishing | Peppery instead of bitter |
Closest Match
Curly endive is the closest substitute because it is related to escarole and has a similar bitter-green character. It is more frilly and can taste a little sharper.
For Soup
Kale, chard, spinach, and curly endive can all work in soup. Use kale or chard when the soup simmers longer. Use spinach near the end because it wilts quickly.
For Salad
Use curly endive, romaine, radicchio, or arugula. If the substitute tastes more bitter than escarole, balance it with citrus, vinegar, fruit, cheese, nuts, or a slightly sweet dressing.
For Sauteing
Kale, chard, radicchio, and curly endive are good cooked options. Spinach also works, but it shrinks quickly and releases more moisture.
How Much to Use
Use about the same volume of substitute greens, then adjust after cooking. Sturdy greens shrink less than spinach, so the final amount can vary.
FAQ
What is the closest substitute for escarole?
Curly endive is usually the closest because it is related and has a similar bitter-green flavor.
Can I use spinach instead of escarole?
Yes, especially in soups and pasta, but spinach is milder and wilts much faster.
Can I use kale instead of escarole?
Yes. Kale is sturdier and needs more cooking time, so it is best for soups, beans, and stews.
Can I use romaine instead of escarole?
Yes for raw salads. Romaine is crunchy and mild, but it does not bring the same bitterness.
Is radicchio a good escarole substitute?
Yes when you want bitterness and color, but radicchio is usually more intense than escarole.