Substitutes for flat leaf parsley in cooking include arugula and basil in salads, cilantro and celery leaves in soups and stews, curly leaf parsley and chervil for garnishing, and Italian seasoning or oregano in herb mixes and seasonings. Use these alternatives to match the desired flavor and presentation in dishes.
Arugula adds a peppery, slightly bitter taste to salads, similar to flat leaf parsley. It's more flavorful, so use sparingly if substituting. Mix it with other salad greens in a ratio according to your taste preference. Fresh arugula is widely available in grocery stores.
Basil can provide a sweet, aromatic flavor to fresh salads. While the taste is different, it can contribute a similarly vibrant green color. Use it in a 1:1 ratio or to taste, depending on the dish. Common brands selling fresh basil include many local farms and organic producers.
Cilantro, or coriander leaves, provides a vibrant, citrusy flavor to dishes. It works well in recipes where parsley is not the star ingredient. Use it in a 1:1 ratio, but consider the distinct taste that may not be suitable for all palates. Popular brands include McCormick and Spice Islands.
Celery leaves can substitute flat leaf parsley to impart a similar vegetal flavor in cooked dishes. They're best used in soups and stews. Use in a 1:1 ratio, but expect a stronger taste. No specific brands, as they're generally taken from fresh celery.
Curly leaf parsley can be used as a direct substitute for flat leaf parsley when garnishing dishes. It has a slightly milder flavor but provides a similar visual appeal. Use it in a 1:1 ratio. Popular brands include McCormick and Spice Islands.
Chervil, with its delicate flavor and frilly leaves, can be a good substitute for parsley as a garnish. It has a faint taste of licorice and resembles parsley in appearance. Use it in a 1:1 ratio, but keep in mind it's less common in stores. Fresh chervil is often found in farmers' markets.
Italian seasoning, which usually includes parsley, can mimic the flavor profile in herb mixes and seasonings. Use in a 1:1 ratio or to taste. Keep in mind that it also contains other herbs like oregano and thyme. Popular brands include McCormick and Simply Organic.
Oregano can be used in place of parsley for robust flavor in seasoning mixes and marinades. It's more potent, so start with half the amount and adjust to taste. Common brands include McCormick and Spice Islands.
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| Recipe Category | Substitutes |
|---|---|
| Salads | Arugula, Basil |
| Cooking | Cilantro, Celery Leaves |
| Garnishing | Curly Leaf Parsley, Chervil |
| Herb Mixes and Seasonings | Italian Seasoning, Oregano |
While flat leaf parsley offers a unique flavor and culinary presence, these substitutes can help you adapt your recipes when it's unavailable. Each alternative provides its own unique properties and benefits, making it easy to achieve the desired outcome in your cooking endeavors.
