How to Cut Kale

Learn how to prep kale for use in salads, side dishes and more.

By Lisa Kingsley
and
Alex Loh
Alex Loh
Alex Loh
Alex Loh is EatingWell's associate food editor. As part of the food team, she creates healthy, delicious recipes for the EatingWell audience. Alex also writes informative food and cooking articles that range from how to store ground beef to the best picks from Trader Joe's. Alex conducts product and taste tests to find the best options, from salad spinners to salsas.
EatingWell's Editorial Guidelines
Published on November 15, 2021
different types of kale laying on a dish rag on a marble countertop
Photo: Helen Norman

Whether you're growing it in your backyard or picking up a bunch from the grocery store, kale is known for its curly, and oftentimes unruly, leaves. While those leaves are great for using in a wide array of recipes, from Kale Salad with Cranberries to Creamed Kale, prepping kale for cooking may seem tricky. To help, we put together this guide with step-by-step photos, so you can learn how to cut kale like a pro.

5 Reasons to Love Dark Leafy Greens

How to Cut Kale

1. Wash kale in cool water to remove sand and grit.

A woman's hands tossing kale in a bowl
Karla Conrad

2. Slice along each side of the stem or hold onto it and pull off the leaves.

Hands using a knife to cut kale on a cutting board
Karla Conrad

3. Chop or tear leaves to desired size.

A close up of hands using a knife to cut kale on a cutting board
Karla Conrad

Once your kale is chopped, recipes like Adobo Chicken & Kale Enchiladas and Spicy Potato & Kale Soup are just the beginning of what you can make and enjoy. Next up: Learn how to cook kale the right way.

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