Parsley

Parsley is a versatile herb that is used in a variety of cuisines around the world. It is available year-round but is at its peak during spring and summer. Parsley is commonly used in Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and European cuisines. It can be used fresh or dried and is often used as a garnish or as a key ingredient in dishes like tabbouleh and chimichurri. It has a fresh, slightly bitter taste that can enhance the flavor of other ingredients.

Parsley Synonyms

Petroselinum crispum
garden parsley

Different Forms/Types of Parsley

How to Choose Parsley

When buying fresh parsley, look for vibrant green leaves that are not wilted or yellowing. The stems should be firm and the leaves should have a fresh, clean scent. For dried or ground parsley, ensure that it is a bright green color and has a strong aroma. Avoid any products that appear dull or have lost their scent. For frozen, canned, or jarred parsley, check the expiration date and ensure the product has been stored properly.

Cooking/Prep Tips for Parsley

Parsley is a versatile herb that can be used in a variety of dishes to add a fresh, slightly bitter flavor. It's important to remember that parsley is delicate and can lose its flavor when cooked for too long. Therefore, it's best to add parsley towards the end of the cooking process or use it as a garnish. When chopping parsley, use a sharp knife to avoid bruising the leaves and releasing their essential oils prematurely. Also, remember to remove the tough stems before using, as they can be fibrous and tough to chew.

Shelf Life of Parsley

Fresh parsley should be stored in the refrigerator. Wrap the stems in a damp paper towel and place in a plastic bag. Alternatively, you can place the parsley stems in a glass of water and cover the leaves with a plastic bag, changing the water every couple of days. Dried or ground parsley should be stored in a cool, dark place in an airtight container. Frozen, canned, or jarred parsley should be stored according to the manufacturer's instructions. Once opened, canned or jarred parsley should be refrigerated and used within a week for best quality.

Recommended Brands for Parsley

dried parsley: McCormick

fresh parsley: Gourmet Garden

canned parsley: Roland

frozen parsley: Daregal

ground parsley: Simply Organic

jarred parsley: Sanniti

Cooking Techniques for Parsley

Chopping: Chopping parsley is the most common way to prepare it for cooking. Use a sharp knife and a chopping board to finely chop the leaves. This releases the essential oils and maximizes the flavor.

Infusing: Parsley can be infused in oil or butter to create a flavorful base for cooking. Simply simmer the parsley in oil or butter over low heat until the flavors are well combined.

Blanching: Blanching parsley can help to preserve its bright green color and fresh flavor. Simply immerse the parsley in boiling water for a few seconds, then immediately transfer it to ice water to stop the cooking process.

Popular Parsley Recipes

Parsley Pesto
Tabbouleh
Chimichurri Sauce

Parsley Nutritional Information (100g)

fat: 0.8 g
fiber: 3.3 g
sugar: 0.9 g
protein: 3.0 g
calories: 36 kcal
carbohydrates: 6.3 g

Flavor Combinations

Parsley pairs well with a wide range of ingredients. It's commonly used with garlic, lemon, and olive oil in Mediterranean cuisine. It also complements other herbs like basil, mint, and dill. Parsley works well with a variety of meats, including chicken, lamb, and fish. It can also enhance the flavor of vegetables, grains, and legumes.

Allergen Information

While parsley allergies are rare, they can occur. Symptoms may include skin irritation, respiratory issues, or gastrointestinal distress. Those with a parsley allergy should also avoid parsley oil and dried parsley.