Parsley substitutes
Parsley substitutes — 6 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Cilantro
Same amount as the parsley
Similar fresh herb with different flavor.
The best substitutes for parsley are cilantro, chives, or other fresh herbs like dill or basil, depending on the use.
Parsley's job is aroma, but a deliberately mild one — clean, grassy freshness that lifts a finished dish without claiming a flavour of its own — which is why almost any soft fresh herb can stand in, while a woody herb like thyme or a pungent one like oregano is too harsh raw.
- 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 parsley | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cilantrocooking | 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 |
Cilantro
different taste, similar texture
Similar fresh herb with different flavor.
- Covers
- Aroma & flavor identity
- Best for
- cooking, garnishing, marinades, salads
Different flavor, similar texture.
Chives
different taste, similar texture
Similar fresh herb with mild onion flavor.
- Covers
- Aroma & flavor identity
- Best for
- cooking, garnishing, marinades, salads
Different flavor, similar texture.
Dill
different taste, similar texture
Similar fresh herb with different flavor.
- Covers
- Aroma & flavor identity
- Best for
- cooking, garnishing, marinades, salads
Different flavor, similar texture.
Basil
different taste, similar texture
Similar fresh herb with different flavor.
- Covers
- Aroma & flavor identity
- 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.
Questions
4 questionsCan I use cilantro instead of parsley?
Yes, cilantro is a good substitute for parsley. It has similar texture and can be used in most recipes that call for parsley.
What's the difference between parsley and cilantro?
Parsley has a mild, grassy flavor, while cilantro has a more pronounced, citrusy flavor. Both have similar texture and can be used interchangeably.
Can I use chives instead of parsley?
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 parsley so popular in cooking?
Parsley is popular in cooking because it adds fresh, grassy flavor that complements other ingredients and is a traditional ingredient in many cuisines.
Tips for substituting parsley
6 tips- Parsley adds fresh, grassy flavor to dishes
- Parsley can be used in both sweet and savory dishes
- Parsley pairs well with herbs, spices, and vegetables
- Parsley works well in marinades and sauces
- Parsley can be used to make herb blends
- Store parsley in the refrigerator wrapped in damp paper towels