Out of Fresh parsley, one case
Fresh parsley substitute
8 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Cilantro
Same amount as the fresh parsley
The best substitutes for fresh parsley are cilantro, chives, dill, or basil using a 1:1 ratio. Cilantro works best for garnishing, while chives are good for savory dishes.
- Verdict —
- Tweak it
- What changes —
- different taste, similar texture
- Best for —
- garnishing
One casethe full parsley card
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of fresh parsley | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cilantrogarnishing | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 2 | Chivesgarnishing | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 3 | Dillfish dishes | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 4 | BasilItalian dishes | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 5 | Oreganocooking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 6 | Thymecooking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 7 | Arugulasalads | Same amountYou'll taste it | You'll taste it |
| 8 | Celery leavessoups | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
Cilantro
different taste, similar texture
Cilantro provides a fresh, citrusy flavor that works well as a parsley substitute in most applications, especially garnishing and fresh dishes.
- Best for
- garnishing, fresh applications, salsas, Asian dishes, when you want fresh herb flavor
Cilantro has a more pronounced, citrusy flavor than parsley. Some people have a genetic aversion to cilantro's taste.
Chives
different taste, similar texture
Chives offer a mild onion flavor and similar texture to parsley, making them an excellent substitute in many dishes.
- Best for
- garnishing, savory dishes, potatoes, eggs, soups, when you want mild onion flavor
Chives have a mild onion flavor that's different from parsley but works well in many of the same applications.
Dill
different taste, similar texture
Dill provides a fresh, slightly tangy flavor that can work as a parsley substitute, especially in fish and vegetable dishes.
- Best for
- fish dishes, vegetables, salads, soups, when you want fresh, tangy flavor
Dill has a more pronounced flavor than parsley, so use sparingly and adjust to taste.
Basil
different taste, similar texture
Basil offers a sweet, aromatic flavor that can substitute for parsley in many dishes, especially Italian and Mediterranean cuisine.
- Best for
- Italian dishes, pasta sauces, pizza, Mediterranean cooking, when you want sweet herb flavor
Basil has a sweeter flavor than parsley and works best in dishes where sweetness is welcome.
Oregano
different taste, similar texture
Oregano provides a robust, earthy flavor that can work as a parsley substitute in cooked dishes and Mediterranean cuisine.
- Best for
- cooking, soups, sauces, Mediterranean dishes, Italian recipes, when you want robust herb flavor
Oregano has a stronger flavor than parsley, so start with slightly less and adjust to taste.
Thyme
different taste, similar texture
Thyme offers an earthy, slightly minty flavor that can substitute for parsley in many cooked applications.
- Best for
- cooking, soups, stews, roasted vegetables, meat dishes, when you want earthy flavor
Thyme has a more pronounced flavor than parsley, so use sparingly and adjust to taste.
Arugula
different taste and texture
Arugula provides a peppery, fresh flavor that can work as a parsley substitute in salads and fresh applications.
- Best for
- salads, fresh applications, garnishing, when you want peppery flavor
Arugula has a peppery flavor that's quite different from parsley but works well in fresh applications.
Celery leaves
different taste, similar texture
Celery leaves offer a mild, fresh flavor that can work as a parsley substitute in many dishes.
- Best for
- soups, stews, cooking, when you want mild fresh flavor
Celery leaves have a milder flavor than parsley but work well in cooked dishes.
How it behaves in this recipe
Fresh parsley is commonly used for garnishing and adding fresh flavor to dishes. When substituting, consider whether you need the herb for flavor, texture, or visual appeal. The best substitutes maintain the fresh, herbaceous quality while complementing your dish's flavor profile.
Tips for substituting fresh parsley
8 tips- For garnishing, cilantro or chives work best as fresh parsley substitutes
- Add fresh herbs at the end of cooking to preserve their flavor and color
- When substituting herbs, consider the overall flavor profile of your dish
- Fresh herbs are more potent than dried, so adjust quantities accordingly
- Store fresh herbs in the refrigerator wrapped in damp paper towels
- For the best flavor, use fresh herbs within a few days of purchase
- Wash fresh herbs thoroughly before using to remove dirt and pesticides
- Chop fresh herbs just before using to prevent them from wilting
Notes on fresh parsley
- Grow your own parsley for a constant fresh supply
- Use parsley stems and leaves for maximum flavor
- Consider using parsley root when available
- Use a combination of herbs to mimic parsley's flavor profile
- Store fresh parsley properly to extend its shelf life
Questions
8 questionsWhat's the best substitute for fresh parsley?
The best substitutes for fresh parsley are cilantro, chives, dill, or basil using a 1:1 ratio. Cilantro works best for garnishing, while chives are good for savory dishes.
Can I use cilantro instead of fresh parsley?
Yes, cilantro is an excellent substitute for fresh parsley. Use a 1:1 ratio, but note that cilantro has a more pronounced, citrusy flavor than parsley.
Can I use chives instead of fresh parsley?
Yes, chives work well as a fresh parsley substitute. They have a mild onion flavor and similar texture, making them good for garnishing and savory dishes.
Can I use dried parsley instead of fresh parsley?
Yes, you can use dried parsley instead of fresh, but use 1/3 the amount (1 tsp dried = 1 tbsp fresh). Dried parsley has a more concentrated flavor but less vibrant taste.
What's the difference between fresh parsley and dried parsley?
Fresh parsley has a milder, more vibrant flavor and better texture, while dried parsley has a more concentrated flavor but less fresh taste. Fresh is preferred for garnishing.
How long does fresh parsley last?
Fresh parsley can last 1-2 weeks when stored properly in the refrigerator wrapped in damp paper towels. It's best used within a few days for optimal flavor.
Can I freeze fresh parsley?
Yes, you can freeze fresh parsley by chopping it and storing it in ice cube trays with water, or by freezing it in airtight bags. Frozen parsley works best in cooked dishes.
Why is fresh parsley so popular in cooking?
Fresh parsley is popular because it adds a fresh, grassy flavor that complements other ingredients, works well as a garnish, and is a traditional ingredient in many cuisines worldwide.