Lacinato kale is a dark, leafy green similar to regular curly kale. Its slightly sweet, nutty flavor and texture that is both tender and crunchy makes it the perfect type of kale for healthy salads and smoothies.
But why not use this versatile and nutritious vegetable in dishes other than salads? Here's everything you need to know about preparing and cooking with Lacinato kale, plus some quick and easy recipes to get you started.
So add this nutrient-rich green to your grocery list, or even better, shop all the ingredients directly from our recipe pages.
Is Lacinato Kale and Dinosaur Kale the Same Thing?
Dinosaur kale and lacinato kale are the same types of kale. This kale variety goes by many names: dino kale, Tuscan kale, cavolo nero ("black cabbage" in Italian), black kale, or lacinato.
In recipes, though, these three names of this type of kale are the most common: Tuscan kale, lacinato kale, or dinosaur kale. They all mean the same thing.
Tuscan Kale Quinoa Veggie Bowl
EASY•LOW-FAT Kale and Quinoa Veggie Bowl Lemons and BasilThis Kale and Quinoa Veggie Bowl is the perfect way to fuel your body with nutrients and energy. Packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats, this bowl is a Superfoods powerhouse that will help you stay energized all day long. Whether you’re looking for a healthy snack or a nutritious meal, this quinoa bowl is sure to satisfy.
Lacinato Kale Salad with Tahini Dressing
EASY•PEANUT-FREE Kale Salad with Beets, Avocado and Tahini Dressing Feed Me PhoebeIt's hard to resist a good kale salad, especially when it's as delicious as this one. Packed with nutritious ingredients like beets, avocado, and tahini, this salad is perfect for a healthy dinner or lunch. Plus, it's easy to make ahead of time so that you can enjoy it all week long!
Warm Lacinato Kale Salad with Bacon and Hazelnuts
PEANUT-FREE•FISH-FREE Bacon-Braised Kale with Toasted Hazelnuts The Grumpy PigSkip the side salad and go for the main event with this Bacon Braised Kale with Hazelnuts recipe. This dish is packed full of flavor, with smoky bacon and sweet hazelnuts balancing the taste of kale. It's easy to put together, making it perfect for any weeknight meal.
What Is the Difference Between Lacinato Kale and Regular Kale?
Kale comes in several different types, with lacinato and curly kale being two of the most commonly used types. Lacinato kale is slightly different from regular curly kale often used in recipes.
- Taste and Texture
Lacinato kale is less bitter and has a nuttier earthy yet slightly sweet taste compared to regular curly kale. It is also more delicate in texture, making it perfect for dishes like salads and smoothies. - Cooking Methods
Being less fibrous than regular kale, lacinato kale cooks faster and retains its pleasant texture after it's cooked. - Nutrition
All types of kale are nutrition powerhouses known as superfoods. Kale is one of the most popular ingredients in many Low-Calorie Recipes . But the Lacinato kale variety is even richer in Vitamin A, Vitamin K, and other vital nutrients.
Caesar Salad with Tuscan Kale and Roasted Corn
PEANUT-FREE•TREE NUT-FREE Kale Caesar with Roasted Corn and Cornbread Croutons Lidey LikesThis Caesar Salad is anything but average. With Tuscan kale and roasted corn, it's got a delicious twist that will leave you wanting more. Plus, it's perfect for a healthy and satisfying dinner.
Red Curry Sheet Pan Chicken with Crispy Kale
EASY•LOW-FAT Red Curry Sheet Pan Chicken with Sweet Potatoes and Crispy Kale Feed Me PhoebeWith this Red Curry Sheet Pan Chicken with Crispy Kale recipe, you can have a delicious and healthy meal without any fuss. All the wholesome, healthy ingredients make it paleo-friendly, while the red curry sauce adds a touch of flavor that takes this dish to the next level.
Lacinato Kale Salad with Shallot Vinaigrette
EASY•PEANUT-FREE Favorite Kale Salad with Shallot Vinaigrette Alexandra's KitchenHere is the perfect way to green up your lunchtime routine. Lacinato kale is thinly sliced and packed with flavor, then topped with grated Parmesan cheese and a delicious shallot vinaigrette. It’s healthy, easy to prepare, and absolutely delicious.
Why Do They Call It Dinosaur Kale?
Lacinato kale is often referred to as dinosaur or dino kale. It has nothing to do with actual dinosaurs and all with the way this type of kale looks.
Lacinato can grow up to three feet tall, and its dark green bumpy leaves somewhat resemble dinosaur skin.
Teriyaki Salmon with Roasted Broccolini and Kale
EASY•LOW-FAT Teriyaki Salmon with Broccolini and Kale Chef'dThis recipe is the perfect meal for when you're short on time. The salmon is coated in a sweet and savory glaze, while the broccolini and kale are roasted simultaneously. A touch of heat from chili flakes and a sprinkling of lemon zest gives this dish an extra flavor boost.
Vegetarian Lasagna with Tuscan Kale
If you were looking for an easy, delicious way to enjoy a vegetarian lasagna that even meat-eaters will love, this is it! This recipe features hearty Tuscan kale, juicy tomatoes, and cheesy goodness. Perfect for a weekend dinner party!
Roasted Kale Salad with Goat Cheese
Delicious oven-roasted kale, beets, and figs, with creamy goat cheese on top. This healthy and nutritious recipe makes for a perfect side dish or a light main course.
Quick and Easy Lacinato Kale Salad
EASY•LOW-FAT Lacinato Kale Salad Marin Mama CooksThis is one of the best quick and easy salads you will ever try. It only takes about 15 minutes and a handful of simple ingredients to put this lacinato kale salad together. Its rich, zesty flavor is guaranteed to exceed your expectations.
Kale Salad with Brussels Sprouts and Almonds
EASY•PEANUT-FREE Kale Salad with Brussels Sprouts and Toasted Almonds Marin Mama CooksThis kale and brussels sprout salad is packed with flavor and nutrients! Sweet cranberries, toasted almonds, and parmesan cheese make it irresistible.
Tuscan Kale and Sundried Tomato Galette
PEANUT-FREE•FISH-FREE Rustic Kale Sundried Tomato Galette Joyous HealthThe Tuscan kale and sundried tomato galette is a quick and easy gluten-free dish that will please your taste buds. This dish is perfect for any occasion with the rustic flavors of Tuscan kale and sun-dried tomatoes.
