Parsley is one of the most commonly used herbs in cooking. From garnishing plates to enhancing soups, salads, and sauces, it adds a fresh, slightly peppery flavor that brightens up a wide variety of dishes. But what if you’ve run out—or just don’t like the taste?
Fortunately, there are plenty of excellent parsley substitutes you can use in a pinch, whether you’re working with fresh or dried ingredients.
Let’s explore the best options to replace parsley in your kitchen, depending on what you’re making and the flavor you’re going for.
Table of Contents
Quick Answer: Best Parsley Substitutes
If you’re looking for the closest match, the top parsley substitutes include:
- Cilantro (for fresh parsley in salads and garnishes)
- Chervil (delicate and similar in flavor)
- Basil (for sauces and Italian dishes)
- Oregano or thyme (for a savory depth in cooked meals)
- Dried parsley (if you don’t have fresh)
We’ll dive deeper into these below.
Fresh Parsley Substitutes
When replacing fresh parsley, you’ll want something with similar brightness and a leafy texture, especially if you’re using it as a garnish or in raw dishes like tabbouleh, salads, or chimichurri.
1. Cilantro (Coriander Leaves)
Best for: Garnishes, Mexican and Mediterranean dishes
- Flavor profile: More citrusy and pungent than parsley
- Use the same amount as you would with parsley
- Works well in guacamole, tacos, dressings, and sauces
Note: Cilantro has a distinct flavor—some love it, others don’t. If you’re sensitive to it, try something milder like chervil.
2. Chervil
Best for: Light sauces, egg dishes, French cuisine
- Flavor profile: Mild, delicate, with a hint of anise
- Use slightly more if substituting for parsley
- A great option for spring soups and omelets
Chervil is less commonly available but is one of the most similar herbs to parsley in taste and texture.
3. Basil
Best for: Italian recipes, pasta dishes, tomato-based sauces
- Flavor profile: Sweet, slightly spicy, aromatic
- Use a little less than parsley, as it’s more intense
- Works well in marinara, pesto, or roasted vegetables
Use fresh basil leaves for a soft, leafy finish or chop finely for a fresher look.
4. Arugula (Rocket)
Best for: Salads, sandwiches, pasta dishes
- Flavor profile: Peppery and bold
- Use sparingly, or combine with other herbs
- Great for adding green color and a spicy bite
While not technically an herb, arugula adds a similar freshness and vibrancy to dishes where parsley is used raw.
Dried Parsley Substitutes
If a recipe calls for dried parsley, flavor is more important than appearance, and you can easily substitute with other dried herbs.
1. Dried Basil
- Flavor profile: Warm, slightly sweet
- Substitution ratio: 1:1 for dried parsley
- Works well in soups, stews, and pasta dishes
2. Dried Oregano
- Flavor profile: Earthy, pungent, slightly bitter
- Substitution ratio: Use half the amount
- Best in Italian, Greek, or Middle Eastern cooking
3. Dried Thyme
- Flavor profile: Herbal, minty, slightly lemony
- Substitution ratio: Use half the amount
- Excellent in roasted dishes, casseroles, and sauces
Best Parsley Substitute by Recipe Type
| Dish Type | Best Substitute | Why It Works |
| Fresh salad garnish | Cilantro, arugula, chervil | Similar texture and freshness |
| Pasta sauces | Basil, oregano | Bold herbal notes work well with tomato |
| Soups & stews | Thyme, dried parsley | Adds depth without overpowering |
| Mediterranean recipes | Cilantro, mint | Complements olives, lemon, olive oil |
| Chimichurri or salsa | Cilantro | Strong, zesty flavor |
Choose based on the flavor you’re trying to achieve—mild and fresh or bold and herbaceous.
Can I Use Carrot Tops as a Parsley Substitute?
Yes! Carrot greens are an often-overlooked but amazing substitute for parsley.
- Flavor profile: Mildly bitter and grassy, similar to parsley
- Great for pesto, chimichurri, or as a garnish
- Make sure they’re washed thoroughly and free of stems
Using carrot tops is also a great zero-waste kitchen hack!
Homemade Herb Blend as a Parsley Replacement
If you’re missing parsley entirely, try this herb mix to mimic its freshness:
- 1 tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp oregano
- ½ tsp thyme
- Optional: pinch of dill or tarragon
This blend can be sprinkled on meats, pasta, or used in sauces to create a balanced, herbal effect.
FAQs About Parsley Substitutes
1. Can I use mint instead of parsley?
Yes, especially in Middle Eastern dishes. Mint adds a cool, fresh element but has a stronger aroma—use less.
2. Is spinach a good substitute for parsley?
Only for color or volume, not flavor. Spinach is bland and doesn’t offer the same herbal brightness.
3. Can I skip parsley altogether in a recipe?
In most cooked dishes—yes. For garnishes or salads, replace with a fresh herb for best results.
4. What’s the best dried herb to replace fresh parsley?
Dried basil or dried chervil offer the closest herbal taste. Use sparingly.
5. Is Italian parsley different from curly parsley?
Yes. Italian (flat-leaf) parsley has more flavor and is better for cooking, while curly parsley is often used as a garnish.
Whether you’re out of parsley or just want to try something new, there’s no need to stress. With a well-chosen parsley substitute, you can still create delicious, flavorful dishes without missing a beat.
From cilantro and basil to dried oregano and even carrot tops, there’s always an herb that can step in and save your recipe.
