What Is Parsley?
Parsley (Petroselinum crispum) is a plant with a two-year life cycle in the parsley family, native to the Mediterranean region. Its two main varieties are flat-leaf (Italian) and curly-leaf; the flat-leaf variety is generally considered more aromatic.
In Turkish cuisine, parsley is used both as a fresh leafy green and as an essential garnish. It has a sharp, mildly astringent, refreshing flavor.
Parsley Nutrition Facts
Although it is eaten in small amounts, parsley is a nutrient-dense leafy green; 100 g contains about 36 kcal of energy and 3.3 g of fiber. It is especially rich in vitamin K and vitamin C.
What Are the Benefits of Parsley?
With its high vitamin K and C content, parsley is a leafy green that can be part of a balanced diet. It is traditionally chewed after meals to freshen the breath.
This is general information; parsley is a food, not a substitute for medical treatment. People taking blood thinners are advised to consult a health care professional about consuming leafy greens high in vitamin K.
How to Choose Parsley
Fresh parsley should be bright green, with firm stems and no wilting.
- The leaves should be a glossy, dark green; yellowed or darkened tips indicate that they are stale.
- When cut, the stems should look moist and firm, not dried out.
- The bunch should have a sharp, fresh smell; a moldy odor is a sign of spoilage.
How to Store Parsley
To keep parsley fresh for about 1 week in the refrigerator, place the stems in a glass of water and loosely cover the top with a bag; change the water every few days. For longer storage, chop it and freeze it in ice cube trays with a little water.
How to Use Parsley in the Kitchen
Parsley is mostly used raw: it is a main ingredient in salads and is added to soups and other dishes at the end of cooking for a fresh note. Prolonged exposure to heat diminishes its aroma and bright color.
How to Make Tabbouleh
Make the classic Middle Eastern salad tabbouleh by combining finely chopped parsley with bulgur, tomatoes, onions, mint, lemon juice, and olive oil. Here, parsley is the main ingredient, not a garnish.
How to Make Parsley Sauce
Blend parsley with garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil to make a fresh green sauce to serve with grilled meat and fish.
What Recipes Use Parsley?
Popular uses include tabbouleh, parsley sauce, parsley meatball mixture, and vegetable dishes cooked with olive oil. Chopped parsley is also sprinkled over soups and pilafs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is parsley good for?
Parsley is rich in vitamin K, vitamin C, and fiber and can be part of a balanced diet. It is a food and is not claimed to cure any disease.
Can you eat parsley stems?
Yes. Although the stems are sharper in flavor and more fibrous than the leaves, they can be finely chopped and used in sauces, soups, and meatball mixtures, helping reduce waste.
What is the difference between flat-leaf and curly parsley?
Flat-leaf (Italian) parsley is generally considered more aromatic and is often used in cooked dishes; curly parsley has a milder flavor and is often used as a garnish.
Can parsley be frozen?
Yes. Chopped parsley can be frozen in ice cube trays with a little water. This method preserves a flavor close to fresh parsley, and the cubes can be added directly to soups and sauces.
Why does parsley wilt so quickly?
Its delicate leaves lose water quickly. After cutting, parsley left at room temperature without being placed in water may wilt within a few hours.