Cilantro substitutes
Cilantro substitutes — 9 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Parsley
Same amount as the cilantro
Similar fresh herb with different flavor.
The best substitutes for cilantro are parsley, chives, or other fresh herbs like dill or basil, depending on the use.
Cilantro's job is aroma, and it is the most singular one in the herb drawer — a bright, citrusy, pungent note nothing else in the fridge reproduces — so every swap here gives you a fresh green herb but not cilantro, which is exactly what you want if you are replacing it because you dislike the taste.
- Verdict —
- Tweak it
- What changes —
- different taste, similar texture
- Best for —
- cooking
Updated 26 Jul 2026 · no sponsored swaps
- Jobs
- Aroma & flavor identityprimary
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of cilantro | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Parsleycooking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 2 | Chivescooking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 3 | Dillcooking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 4 | Basilcooking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 5 | Oreganocooking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 6 | Thymecooking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 7 | Mintgarnishes | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 8 | Tarragongarnishes | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 9 | Chervilgarnishes | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
Parsley
different taste, similar texture
Similar fresh herb with different flavor.
- Misses
- Aroma & flavor identity — not covered
- Best for
- cooking, garnishing, marinades, salads
Different flavor, similar texture.
Chives
different taste, similar texture
Similar fresh herb with mild onion flavor.
- Misses
- Aroma & flavor identity — not covered
- Best for
- cooking, garnishing, marinades, salads
Different flavor, similar texture.
Dill
different taste, similar texture
Similar fresh herb with different flavor.
- Misses
- Aroma & flavor identity — not covered
- Best for
- cooking, garnishing, marinades, salads
Different flavor, similar texture.
Basil
different taste, similar texture
Similar fresh herb with different flavor.
- Misses
- Aroma & flavor identity — not covered
- Best for
- cooking, garnishing, marinades, salads
Different flavor, similar texture.
Oregano
different taste, similar texture
Similar fresh herb with different flavor.
- Misses
- Aroma & flavor identity — not covered
- Best for
- cooking, garnishing, marinades, salads
Different flavor, similar texture.
Thyme
different taste, similar texture
Similar fresh herb with different flavor.
- Misses
- Aroma & flavor identity — not covered
- Best for
- cooking, garnishing, marinades, salads
Different flavor, similar texture.
Mint
different taste, similar texture
Similar herb with different flavor.
- Misses
- Aroma & flavor identity — not covered
- Best for
- garnishes, sauces, marinades, salads
Different flavor, similar texture.
Tarragon
different taste, similar texture
Similar herb with different flavor.
- Misses
- Aroma & flavor identity — not covered
- Best for
- garnishes, sauces, marinades, salads
Different flavor, similar texture.
Chervil
different taste, similar texture
Similar herb with different flavor.
- Misses
- Aroma & flavor identity — not covered
- Best for
- garnishes, sauces, marinades, salads
Different flavor, similar texture.
Questions
6 questionsCan I use parsley instead of cilantro?
Yes, parsley is a good substitute for cilantro. It has similar texture and can be used in most recipes that call for cilantro.
What's the difference between cilantro and parsley?
Cilantro has a citrusy, pungent flavor, while parsley has a mild, grassy flavor. Both have similar texture and can be used interchangeably.
Can I use chives instead of cilantro?
Yes, chives can work as a substitute, though they may have a different flavor. They have similar texture and can be used in most recipes.
Why is cilantro so popular in Mexican cooking?
Cilantro is popular in Mexican cooking because it adds fresh, citrusy flavor that complements the ingredients and cooking styles of Mexican cuisine.
Can I use basil instead of cilantro?
Yes, basil can work as a substitute, though it has a different flavor. It provides similar freshness and can be used in most recipes.
Why is cilantro so popular in cooking?
Cilantro is popular because it adds bright, citrusy flavor and is versatile in many different types of cuisine and dishes.
Tips for substituting cilantro
11 tips- Cilantro adds fresh, citrusy flavor to dishes
- Cilantro can be used in both sweet and savory dishes
- Cilantro pairs well with herbs, spices, and vegetables
- Cilantro works well in marinades and sauces
- Cilantro can be used to make herb blends
- Store cilantro in the refrigerator wrapped in damp paper towels
- Cilantro adds bright, citrusy flavor to dishes
- Cilantro pairs well with lime, garlic, and chili peppers
- Cilantro works well in Mexican, Asian, and Middle Eastern cuisines
- Cilantro can be used fresh or dried
- Store cilantro in the refrigerator