Top 10 Substitutes for Parsley Flakes to Spice Up Your Cooking

Parsley flakes are a popular kitchen staple, adding a pop of color and a mild herbal flavor to countless dishes. But what happens when you reach for that jar of parsley flakes and it’s empty? Don’t worry, plenty of delicious alternatives can step in to save your recipe. Let’s explore some of the best substitutes for parsley flakes and how to use them in your cooking.

1. Fresh Parsley

If you have fresh parsley on hand, it’s the perfect substitute for dried parsley flakes. Fresh parsley has a more vibrant flavor, so you’ll want to use more than you would with dried flakes. Generally, the conversion is about 3 times the amount of fresh parsley for the dried version.

• How to Use: Chop the fresh parsley finely and add it at the end of cooking to preserve its flavor and texture. Use it in pasta, soups, salads, and as a garnish.

2. Cilantro

Cilantro (or coriander leaves) is a great substitute for parsley flakes, especially in dishes that can handle a stronger, citrusy flavor. Cilantro has a bolder taste than parsley, so it may slightly change the flavor of the dish—but in a delicious way!

• How to Use: Use fresh cilantro in place of parsley flakes in Mexican, Indian, or Middle Eastern dishes like tacos, salsas, or curries. Keep in mind, cilantro’s flavor can fade during cooking, so it’s best added at the end.

3. Basil

Basil brings a sweet, slightly peppery taste that works well in place of parsley flakes, especially in Mediterranean dishes. While basil has a more pronounced flavor, it still complements a wide variety of dishes like pastas and sauces.

• How to Use: Substitute dried basil in equal amounts for parsley flakes in recipes. It’s particularly good in Italian dishes like tomato-based sauces, salads, and pizzas.

4. Oregano

Oregano is a stronger herb with a slightly bitter and earthy flavor, making it a more potent substitute for parsley flakes. It’s especially great for Mediterranean and Italian dishes, like pizza, stews, or marinades.

• How to Use: Use half the amount of dried oregano as you would parsley flakes, as its flavor is much stronger. If using fresh oregano, chop it finely and add it in smaller quantities to avoid overpowering the dish.

5. Chives

Chives have a mild onion-like flavor and can work well as a parsley substitute in recipes that need a fresh, subtle kick. They’re especially good in dishes like potatoes, scrambled eggs, or creamy dips.

• How to Use: Use fresh or dried chives as a 1:1 substitute for parsley flakes. Chives are perfect for garnishing soups, casseroles, or baked dishes.

6. Tarragon

Tarragon has a unique anise-like flavor, which adds a sweet, licorice taste to dishes. While it’s a bit stronger and more distinctive than parsley, it works well in creamy sauces, fish dishes, and salads.

• How to Use: Use tarragon sparingly, as its flavor can easily dominate a dish. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste, especially in creamy sauces or dressings.

7. Dill

Dill has a bright, tangy flavor that can replace parsley flakes in dishes where a fresh herb is needed. While dill has its own unique taste, it works well in Mediterranean and Eastern European cuisines, especially in dishes with fish, potatoes, or yogurt sauces.

• How to Use: Use dill in equal parts to parsley flakes for a refreshing twist. It’s perfect for garnishing fish dishes, potato salads, or tzatziki.

8. Arugula (Rocket)

Arugula has a peppery, slightly bitter flavor that can substitute parsley flakes in salads or garnishes. While it’s more intense in flavor, arugula adds a fresh, zesty element to any dish.

• How to Use: Chop arugula finely and use it as a parsley substitute in salads, sandwiches, or as a topping for pizza.

9. Mint

Mint offers a cool, refreshing flavor that can stand in for parsley in some recipes. It pairs especially well with Middle Eastern or Mediterranean dishes like tabbouleh, lamb, or yogurt sauces.

• How to Use: Use fresh mint in moderation to avoid overpowering the dish. It’s great in salads, sauces, and as a garnish for grilled meats.

10. Spinach

While not an herb, spinach can act as a substitute for parsley flakes in dishes where you need a mild, green addition. Spinach is especially useful in soups, pasta dishes, or smoothies where parsley was supposed to be used for a bit of color and freshness.

How to Use: Finely chop fresh spinach and add it to your dish as a parsley replacement. It’s mild in flavor, so feel free to use a bit more than the recipe calls for.