🌿 Spices & Herbs

Can You Substitute Cilantro for Parsley? Complete Guide

Learn if you can substitute cilantro for parsley and vice versa. Get the complete guide on ratios, differences, and when to use each in your recipes.

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Quick Answer

Yes, you can substitute cilantro for parsley and vice versa using a 1:1 ratio. Cilantro has a more pronounced, citrusy flavor while parsley is milder and grassier. Consider your dish's flavor profile when choosing.

Best Substitutes

Cilantro

1:1

Cilantro provides a fresh, citrusy flavor that works well as a parsley substitute in most applications, especially garnishing and fresh dishes.

Best for:

garnishingfresh applicationssalsasAsian dishesMexican cuisinewhen you want fresh herb flavor

Cilantro has a more pronounced, citrusy flavor than parsley. Some people have a genetic aversion to cilantro's taste, so consider your audience.

Parsley

1:1

Parsley provides a mild, grassy flavor that can work as a cilantro substitute in many dishes, especially when you want a milder herb flavor.

Best for:

garnishingfresh applicationsMediterranean disheswhen you want mild herb flavorwhen cilantro flavor is too strong

Parsley has a milder, grassier flavor than cilantro. It works well when you want fresh herb flavor without the citrusy notes.

Chives

1:1

Chives offer a mild onion flavor that can work as a substitute for both cilantro and parsley in many applications.

Best for:

garnishingsavory dishespotatoeseggssoupswhen you want mild onion flavor

Chives have a mild onion flavor that's different from both cilantro and parsley but works well in many of the same applications.

Dill

1:1

Dill provides a fresh, slightly tangy flavor that can work as a substitute for both cilantro and parsley in many dishes.

Best for:

fish dishesvegetablessaladssoupswhen you want fresh, tangy flavor

Dill has a more pronounced flavor than both cilantro and parsley, so use sparingly and adjust to taste.

Basil

1:1

Basil offers a sweet, aromatic flavor that can substitute for both cilantro and parsley in many dishes, especially Italian cuisine.

Best for:

Italian dishespasta saucespizzaMediterranean cookingwhen you want sweet herb flavor

Basil has a sweeter flavor than both cilantro and parsley and works best in dishes where sweetness is welcome.

Mint

1:1

Mint provides a fresh, cooling flavor that can work as a substitute for both cilantro and parsley in certain applications.

Best for:

saladsfresh applicationsMiddle Eastern disheswhen you want cooling flavor

Mint has a very different flavor profile but can work in fresh applications where you want a cooling effect.

Cooking Tips

  • 💡Cilantro works best as a parsley substitute in fresh applications and garnishing
  • 💡Parsley works best as a cilantro substitute when you want milder herb flavor
  • 💡Consider your audience - some people have a genetic aversion to cilantro's taste
  • 💡Cilantro is more common in Asian, Mexican, and Latin American cuisines
  • 💡Parsley is more common in Mediterranean, European, and Middle Eastern cuisines
  • 💡Both herbs work well in salsas, but cilantro is more traditional
  • 💡For garnishing, both herbs work equally well visually
  • 💡Cilantro tends to wilt faster than parsley, so add it closer to serving time

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I substitute cilantro for parsley?

Yes, you can substitute cilantro for parsley using a 1:1 ratio. Cilantro has a more pronounced, citrusy flavor while parsley is milder and grassier. Consider your dish's flavor profile when choosing.

Can I substitute parsley for cilantro?

Yes, you can substitute parsley for cilantro using a 1:1 ratio. Parsley has a milder, grassier flavor while cilantro is more pronounced and citrusy. Parsley works well when you want a milder herb flavor.

What's the difference between cilantro and parsley?

Cilantro has a more pronounced, citrusy flavor while parsley is milder and grassier. Both have similar texture and can be used interchangeably, but cilantro is more common in Asian and Latin American cuisines.

Why do some people hate cilantro?

Some people have a genetic variation that makes cilantro taste like soap or metal. This affects about 4-14% of the population, so consider your audience when using cilantro as a substitute.

Can I use both cilantro and parsley together?

Yes, cilantro and parsley can be used together in many dishes. They complement each other well and are often used together in salsas, salads, and fresh applications.

Which is better for garnishing - cilantro or parsley?

Both cilantro and parsley work well for garnishing. Cilantro is more common in Asian and Latin American cuisines, while parsley is more common in Mediterranean and European cuisines.

Can I use dried cilantro instead of fresh parsley?

Yes, you can use dried cilantro instead of fresh parsley, but use 1/3 the amount (1 tsp dried = 1 tbsp fresh). Dried cilantro has a more concentrated flavor but less vibrant taste.

Which lasts longer - cilantro or parsley?

Parsley typically lasts longer than cilantro when stored properly. Both should be stored in the refrigerator wrapped in damp paper towels, but parsley can last 1-2 weeks while cilantro lasts about 1 week.

Summary

Learn if you can substitute cilantro for parsley and vice versa. Complete guide with 1:1 ratios, flavor differences, and when to use each herb in your recipes.