Parsley is a versatile herb that is commonly used in many recipes, but what if you don’t have any on hand or simply don’t like the taste? Fortunately, there are several substitutes for parsley that can be used in its place.
Why Substitute Parsley?
Substituting parsley with other herbs or spices can bring a new dimension of flavor to your dish. Additionally, using a substitute can be a great way to experiment with different flavors and find new combinations that work well together.
Some people may also prefer to use substitutes for parsley due to its distinct taste. While parsley is mild, it still has a unique flavor that may not be suitable for certain dishes. In such cases, using a substitute can help to tone down the flavor or bring out other flavors in the dish.
There are several parsley substitutes that can be used in cooking. Some of the most common alternatives include:
- Cilantro: This is one of my favourite herbs and it has a similar flavor to parsley but with a slightly stronger taste. It can be used in the same amount as parsley in most recipes.
- Basil: Another favourite of mine. This herb has a sweet and slightly peppery flavor that can work well in place of parsley. It’s best used in Italian or Mediterranean dishes.
- Chervil: This herb has a delicate flavor that is similar to parsley. It’s best used in dishes that require a subtle flavor.
- Dill: This herb has a slightly sweet and tangy flavor that can work well in place of parsley. It’s best used in dishes that require a strong flavor.
- Tarragon: This herb has a licorice-like flavor that can be used in place of parsley. It’s best used in French or Mediterranean dishes.
Fresh vs Dried Parsley
Fresh Parsley
Fresh parsley has a bright green color and a crisp texture. It has a milder flavor than dried parsley and is often used as a garnish or added to dishes at the end of the cooking process. Fresh parsley is also a good source of vitamins A and C, as well as iron and calcium.
Dried Parsley
Dried parsley is made by drying fresh parsley leaves and then grinding them into a powder. It has a more concentrated flavor than fresh parsley and is often used in dishes that require a stronger parsley flavor. Dried parsley is also a good source of vitamins A and C, as well as iron and calcium.
When it comes to substituting fresh parsley for dried parsley, keep in mind that dried parsley is more potent than fresh parsley. As a general rule, you can use 1 tablespoon of dried parsley in place of 3 tablespoons of fresh parsley.
Common Parsley Substitutes
If you don’t have parsley on hand or if you don’t like its taste, there are many other herbs and greens that you can use as a substitute. Here are some common parsley substitutes:
Basil
Basil is a popular herb that has a similar flavor to parsley. It has a sweet, slightly spicy taste and is often used in Italian and Mediterranean dishes. Basil can be used fresh or dried, and it is a great substitute for parsley in recipes that call for a garnish or for adding flavor to soups, stews, and sauces.
Chervil
Chervil is a delicate herb that has a mild, slightly sweet flavor. It is often used in French cuisine and is a great substitute for parsley in dishes that require a subtle flavor. Chervil is often used in salads, soups, and sauces and can be used fresh or dried.
Cilantro
Cilantro, also known as coriander, has a distinct flavor that is often described as citrusy and slightly spicy. It is a popular herb in Latin American and Asian cuisines and is a great substitute for parsley in recipes that require a bold flavor. Cilantro is often used in salsas, guacamole, and curries.
Tarragon
Tarragon is a herb that has a mild anise flavor. It is often used in French cuisine and is a great substitute for parsley in recipes that require a subtle flavor. Tarragon is often used in sauces, dressings, and marinades and can be used fresh or dried.
Oregano
Oregano is a herb that has a strong, slightly bitter flavor. It is often used in Italian and Mediterranean cuisines and is a great substitute for parsley in recipes that require a bold flavor. Oregano is often used in sauces, stews, and meat dishes and can be used fresh or dried.
Chives
Chives have a mild onion flavor and are often used as a garnish or in salads. They are a great substitute for parsley in recipes that require a subtle flavor. Chives can be used fresh or dried.
Arugula
Arugula has a peppery flavor and is often used in salads and sandwiches. It is a great substitute for parsley in recipes that require a bold flavor. Arugula can be used fresh or dried.
Celery Leaves
Celery leaves have a mild, slightly bitter flavor and are often used as a garnish or in salads. They are a great substitute for parsley in recipes that require a subtle flavor. Celery leaves can be used fresh or dried.
Endive
Endive has a slightly bitter flavor and is often used in salads. It is a great substitute for parsley in recipes that require a subtle flavor. Endive can be used fresh or cooked.
Carrot Greens
Carrot greens have a slightly bitter flavor and are often used as a garnish or in salads. They are a great substitute for parsley in recipes that require a subtle flavor. Carrot greens can be used fresh or cooked.
Mint
Mint has a sweet, refreshing flavor and is often used in desserts and drinks. It is a great substitute for parsley in recipes that require a subtle flavor. Mint can be used fresh or dried.
Fines Herbes
Fines herbes is a blend of herbs that includes parsley, chervil, tarragon, and chives. It has a mild, slightly sweet flavor and is often used in French cuisine. Fines herbes is a great substitute for parsley in recipes that require a subtle flavor.
Coriander
Coriander, also known as cilantro, has a distinct flavor that is often described as citrusy and slightly spicy. It is a popular herb in Latin American and Asian cuisines and is a great substitute for parsley in recipes that require a bold flavor. Coriander is often used in salsas, guacamole, and curries.
Thyme
Thyme has a strong, slightly sweet flavor and is often used in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines. It is a great substitute for parsley in recipes that require a bold flavor. Thyme is often used in stews, soups, and meat dishes and can be used fresh or dried.
Root Parsley
Root parsley is a variety of parsley that has a slightly sweeter flavor and is often used in soups and stews. It is a great substitute for parsley in recipes that require a subtle flavor. Root parsley can be used fresh or dried.
Choosing the Right Substitute
When it comes to choosing a substitute for parsley, it’s important to consider the flavor profile of the dish you’re making. Parsley has a mild, slightly peppery and bitter taste that pairs well with a variety of dishes, from Italian to Mexican to French cuisine.
If you’re looking for a substitute for parsley in soups, sauces, and stews, consider using thyme or rosemary. These herbs have an earthy flavor that can complement the savory flavors of these dishes.
For salads, you may want to consider using arugula or watercress. These salad greens have a peppery taste that can add a nice kick to your salad.
If you’re making Italian dishes, you may want to consider using basil or oregano instead of parsley. These herbs have a similar flavor profile and are commonly used in Italian cuisine.
For a dish that requires a licorice or anise-like flavor, fennel or tarragon can be used as a substitute for parsley. These herbs have a similar flavor profile and can be used in the same quantities as parsley.
When substituting parsley in a recipe, it’s important to keep in mind the cooking process. Some herbs, such as basil and cilantro, are best added at the end of the cooking process to maintain their flavor. Other herbs, such as thyme and rosemary, can be added at the beginning of the cooking process to infuse their flavor into the dish.
Specific Dishes and Their Substitutes
If you don’t have parsley on hand or want to try something new, there are plenty of substitutes that can work just as well in various dishes.
Here are some specific dishes and their substitutes:
Rice
If you’re making rice and want to add some flavor, try using cilantro instead of parsley. Cilantro has a similar flavor profile to parsley and can add a fresh and tangy taste to your rice dishes.
Stews
For stews, thyme can be a great substitute for parsley. Thyme has a slightly earthy and sweet flavor that can complement the rich and hearty flavors of stews.
Italian Dishes
Basil is a classic herb used in Italian dishes and can be a great substitute for parsley. Basil has a sweet and slightly peppery flavor that can add depth to pasta dishes and sauces.
Fish
Dill is a great substitute for parsley when it comes to fish dishes. Dill has a slightly sweet and tangy flavor that pairs well with the delicate flavors of fish.
Falafel
For falafel, coriander can be a great substitute for parsley. Coriander has a slightly citrusy and spicy flavor that can add a kick to your falafel.
Pesto
If you’re making pesto and don’t have parsley on hand, try using arugula instead. Arugula has a slightly peppery and nutty flavor that can add a unique twist to your pesto.
Casseroles
Sage can be a great substitute for parsley in casseroles. Sage has a slightly savory and earthy flavor that can complement the rich and hearty flavors of casseroles.
Stocks
For stocks, bay leaves can be a great substitute for parsley. Bay leaves have a slightly sweet and herbal flavor that can add depth to your stocks.
Indian and Middle Eastern
Cumin is a great substitute for parsley when it comes to Indian and Middle Eastern dishes. Cumin has a slightly nutty and spicy flavor that can add warmth and depth to curries and stews.
Garlic Bread
Rosemary can be a great substitute for parsley when it comes to garlic bread. Rosemary has a slightly piney and herbal flavor that can complement the savory flavors of garlic bread.
Chimichurri
If you’re making chimichurri and don’t have parsley on hand, try using oregano instead. Oregano has a slightly bitter and pungent flavor that can add a unique twist to your chimichurri.
Nutritional Comparison
When looking for a substitute for parsley, it is important to consider the nutritional benefits of the alternative options. Parsley is a rich source of antioxidants, iron, beta carotene, fiber, vitamin K, vitamin A, calcium, and thymol, which are all important for maintaining good health.
One potential substitute for parsley is cilantro, which is also known as coriander. Cilantro has a similar taste and appearance to parsley, but its nutritional profile is slightly different. Cilantro is a good source of antioxidants, vitamin A, and vitamin K, but it is not as high in iron or calcium as parsley.
Another option is basil, which has a slightly sweet and spicy flavor. Basil is a good source of antioxidants, vitamin K, and calcium, but it is not as high in iron or fiber as parsley.
Dill is another herb that can be used as a substitute for parsley. It has a slightly sweet and tangy flavor and is a good source of antioxidants, calcium, and vitamin A. However, it is not as high in iron or fiber as parsley.
Frequently Asked Questions
What herb is closest in taste to parsley?
One of the closest herbs in taste to parsley is cilantro. It has a slightly stronger flavor, but the two herbs are often used interchangeably in many recipes.
Can I use oregano instead of parsley?
Oregano has a distinct flavor that is quite different from parsley, so it may not be the best substitute. However, it can be used in certain dishes where the flavor profile is more compatible, such as in Italian or Greek cuisine.
What herb is similar to parsley but is very delicate?
Chervil is a delicate herb that has a similar flavor profile to parsley. It is often used in French cuisine and pairs well with fish, poultry, and eggs.
Can I use cilantro instead of parsley in pasta?
Yes, cilantro can be used as a substitute for parsley in pasta dishes. However, keep in mind that the flavor profile will be slightly different.
Can I use Italian seasoning instead of parsley?
Italian seasoning typically contains a blend of herbs, including parsley, so it can be used as a substitute in many recipes. However, the flavor profile may be slightly different than using parsley alone.
Can I use thyme instead of parsley?
Thyme has a distinct flavor that is quite different from parsley, so it may not be the best substitute. However, it can be used in certain dishes where the flavor profile is more compatible, such as in stews or roasted meats.