Parsley Substitutes – 5 Best Fresh Green Alternatives
The best substitute for parsley is Cilantro at a 1 tbsp parsley = 1 tbsp cilantro ratio. It works best for salsas, grain bowls, tacos. There are 4 other alternatives below, each with exact ratios and usage notes.
Best Substitute
Cilantro
1 tbsp parsley = 1 tbsp cilantro
Similar fresh, green appearance but with a polarizing citrusy, soapy taste. Works in Mexican, Asian, and Middle Eastern dishes.
What are the other substitutes for parsley?
Chervil
1 tbsp parsley = 1 tbsp chervil
Delicate and mildly anise-flavored. Part of French fines herbes and the closest match to parsley's subtle character.
Celery Leaves
1 tbsp parsley = 1 tbsp celery leaves
Similar mild, fresh flavor with a hint of celery. Often discarded but make an excellent parsley stand-in.
Arugula (chopped finely)
1 tbsp parsley = 1 tbsp finely chopped arugula
Peppery and slightly bitter but provides a similar fresh green element. Best in salads and as a finishing herb.
Basil
1 tbsp parsley = 1 tbsp basil
Sweeter and more aromatic than parsley. Works well in Italian dishes where parsley is used as a fresh herb component.
What should you know before substituting parsley?
Flat-leaf (Italian) parsley has much more flavor than curly parsley, which is primarily decorative. Use stems in stocks and sauces-they have more concentrated flavor than the leaves. Store fresh parsley in a jar of water in the fridge.
How do you substitute parsley in a recipe?
A mild, fresh herb available in flat-leaf (Italian) and curly varieties, used as a garnish and flavor brightener in cuisines worldwide.
The best substitute for parsley depends on what role it plays in your recipe. Our top recommendation is Cilantro (1 tbsp parsley = 1 tbsp cilantro), which works well for salsas, grain bowls, tacos.
If you need a different option, Chervil (1 tbsp parsley = 1 tbsp chervil) is another reliable choice. Delicate and mildly anise-flavored. Part of French fines herbes and the closest match to parsley's subtle character.
When substituting parsley, consider the flavor profile, texture, and cooking method of your recipe. For vegan alternatives, look for the options marked with the vegan badge above.
Substitution ratios verified against USDA FoodData Central. See our testing methodology for details.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I use instead of parsley as a garnish?
Cilantro, chervil, or finely chopped celery leaves all work as parsley garnish substitutes. Choose based on the cuisine-cilantro for Mexican, chervil for French, celery leaves for soups.
Is flat-leaf parsley the same as cilantro?
No, though they look very similar. Flat-leaf (Italian) parsley has a mild, clean flavor, while cilantro has a strong citrusy taste that some people perceive as soapy.
Can I use dried parsley instead of fresh?
Yes, use 1 teaspoon dried parsley per tablespoon of fresh, but dried parsley is much less flavorful. It works in cooked dishes but is a poor substitute for fresh parsley as a garnish.