As a garnish or a key ingredient, parsley adds a burst of fresh flavor to nearly any dish. A low-calorie herb, parsley is high in vitamins and minerals. Parsley comes in two variations: flat or curly. You can get it dried or fresh.
When you don’t have any parsley on hand, don’t despair. There are a few substitutes you can turn to in its place. Here are the best herb alternatives to use in preparation or as a garnish.
Remember to substitute dry parsley for another dry herb and fresh parsley with another fresh herb. Dried herbs have a stronger flavor than fresh, so you may need less.
Table of Contents
Curly Parsley versus Flat Leaf Parsley
Curly parsley is also known as Italian parsley and is typically used in Italian recipes. It has a rich taste and a more intense flavor. Flat parsley has a mild taste and is darker in color. It is most often used in French cuisine. You can use whichever variety of parsley you prefer.
Parsley Substitutes
Here is a list of some great parsley alternatives: dried parsley.
1. Chervil
Chervil is very similar to parsley but has a mild taste. It’s an ideal substitute for flat-leaf parsley and can be used dried or fresh. It is best for cooking rather than garnishing. It is also high in iron. Just a single teaspoon of chervil contains 1% of the daily value of iron.
2. Tarragon
Commonplace in French cuisine, tarragon also makes a suitable substitute for parsley. It is often combined with chives, parsley, and chervil but can be used alone, as well. Tarragon can help control and reduce blood sugar in individuals with high blood sugar levels. Tarragon has a slightly different taste but is just as versatile as parsley.
3. Oregano
Though it is more closely related to the mint family, oregano can also work as an alternative to parsley if you’re in a bind. It’s ideal for cooking and garnishing and can be used dry or fresh. Oregano has a more intense flavor and aroma so you can use a little less oregano than you would parsley.
4. Arugula
Arugula is not an herb. It is actually a type of salad but its rich flavor and slightly bitter taste make it a good substitute for parsley. It is great for garnishing and can add a distinct, robust flavor to a dish. Because arugula leaves are larger, you will need to chop them finely. Be sure to use only a small amount to balance the bitter taste.
Arugula is a healthy choice because it is high in calcium. Just five leaves contain 1% of the daily value of calcium. It also has proven benefits for healthy muscle development and heart function. Arugula is also high in fiber and helps maintain a healthy gut.
5. Basil
Basil has an unmistakably fresh and rich flavor and aroma. In Italian recipes, basil is always a good choice. Fresh basil is ideal for making a delicious pesto sauce along with other fine herbs, olive oil, and pine nuts. Basil can also substitute for parsley but it is best to use it as a fresh garnish replacement.
Five basil leaves contain 9% of the daily value of vitamin K, which is an important vitamin for strengthening bones and preventing blood clotting.
6. Celery Leaves
Though not the most obvious alternative, celery leaves actually make a great choice. They look similar to parsley and are great for adding as a garnish. The flavor is a lot milder than parsley so it is best to substitute it as a fresh garnish rather than in cooking.
7. Carrot Greens
You may not have thought this would work but trust us, carrot greens can work perfectly, too. They are safe to eat and have several health benefits. They have a somewhat bitter taste so they work best as a garnish and are not ideal for replacing parsley for cooking. Carrot leaves are also high in vitamin C, a natural antioxidant with immune-boosting effects.
8. Thyme
A hint of thyme is similar to parsley, especially when it is fresh. It does have a more intense flavor, so be sure to use it sparingly when substituting it for parsley.
How to Substitute Parsley
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons chervil
- Optional other parsley substitutes
Instructions
- Use chervil or other substitutes in place of parsley according to the recipe.
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