The Power of Parsley Companion Herbs

Table of Contents

Parsley Companion Herbs: A Comprehensive Guide

Parsley is one of the most versatile herbs used in cooking. Not only does it add flavor and nutrition to dishes, but it also pairs well with a variety of other herbs. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the different parsley companion herbs and how they can enhance your culinary creations.

1. Basil

A Classic Pairing

Basil is a classic pairing for parsley. Both herbs belong to the same family – the Apiaceae family. This makes them compatible in terms of flavor and aroma. When combined, basil and parsley create a refreshing and lively taste that is perfect for summer dishes.

How to Use it Together

One way to use these herbs together is by making pesto. Simply blend fresh basil, parsley, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil until smooth. This sauce can be used as a spread or mixed into pasta.

2. Rosemary

A Robust Flavor

Rosemary has a strong and robust flavor that pairs well with parsley. The earthy and woody notes of rosemary complement the fresh and bright taste of parsley.

How to Use it Together

Rosemary and parsley can be used together to flavor meats like chicken, lamb, and beef. Simply chop both herbs finely and mix with salt, pepper, and olive oil. Rub the mixture onto the meat before grilling or roasting.

3. Thyme

Aromatic and Savory

Thyme is another herb that pairs well with parsley. It has a slightly sweet and aromatic flavor that complements the fresh and savory taste of parsley.

How to Use it Together

Thyme and parsley can be used together to flavor soups, stews, and sauces. Simply add the herbs to the dish towards the end of cooking to preserve their flavor and aroma.

4. Sage

A Warm and Mellow Flavor

Sage has a warm and mellow flavor that pairs well with parsley. The bold and earthy notes of sage complement the fresh and crisp taste of parsley.

How to Use it Together

Sage and parsley can be used together to flavor pasta dishes, especially those with creamy sauces. Simply chop both herbs finely and mix them into the sauce.

5. Oregano

A Bold and Pungent Flavor

Oregano has a bold and pungent flavor that pairs well with parsley. The spicy and vibrant notes of oregano complement the fresh and zesty taste of parsley.

How to Use it Together

Oregano and parsley can be used together to flavor Mediterranean dishes like pizza, pasta, and salads. Simply chop both herbs finely and sprinkle them on top of the dish.

6. Chives

A Mild Onion Flavor

Chives have a mild onion flavor that pairs well with parsley. The delicate and subtle taste of chives complements the fresh and tangy taste of parsley.

How to Use it Together

Chives and parsley can be used together to flavor potato dishes like mashed potatoes and potato salad. Simply chop both herbs finely and mix them into the dish.

7. Tarragon

A Sweet and Anise-Like Flavor

Tarragon has a sweet and anise-like flavor that pairs well with parsley. The licorice-like notes of tarragon complement the fresh and bright taste of parsley.

How to Use it Together

Tarragon and parsley can be used together to flavor fish dishes like salmon and trout. Simply chop both herbs finely and sprinkle them on top of the fish before baking or grilling.

8. Cilantro

A Fresh and Citrusy Flavor

Cilantro has a fresh and citrusy flavor that pairs well with parsley. The tangy and zesty notes of cilantro complement the fresh and crisp taste of parsley.

How to Use it Together

Cilantro and parsley can be used together to flavor Mexican and South American dishes like tacos, guacamole, and salsa. Simply chop both herbs finely and mix them into the dish.

9. Dill

A Fresh and Fragrant Flavor

Dill has a fresh and fragrant flavor that pairs well with parsley. The delicate and floral notes of dill complement the fresh and bright taste of parsley.

How to Use it Together

Dill and parsley can be used together to flavor seafood dishes like shrimp, crab, and lobster. Simply chop both herbs finely and mix them into the dish.

10. Marjoram

A Mild and Sweet Flavor

Marjoram has a mild and sweet flavor that pairs well with parsley. The subtle and delicate taste of marjoram complements the fresh and tangy taste of parsley.

How to Use it Together

Marjoram and parsley can be used together to flavor Italian dishes like pasta, pizza, and tomato sauce. Simply chop both herbs finely and mix them into the dish.

11. Mint

A Cool and Refreshing Flavor

Mint has a cool and refreshing flavor that pairs well with parsley. The minty and herbaceous notes of mint complement the fresh and zesty taste of parsley.

How to Use it Together

Mint and parsley can be used together to flavor Middle Eastern dishes like tabbouleh and hummus. Simply chop both herbs finely and mix them into the dish.

12. Bay Leaves

An Aromatic and Woody Flavor

Bay leaves have an aromatic and woody flavor that pairs well with parsley. The warm and spicy notes of bay leaves complement the fresh and vibrant taste of parsley.

How to Use it Together

Bay leaves and parsley can be used together to flavor soups, stews, and casseroles. Simply add the herbs to the dish towards the end of cooking to preserve their flavor and aroma.

13. Fennel

A Sweet and Licorice-Like Flavor

Fennel has a sweet and licorice-like flavor that pairs well with parsley. The anise-like notes of fennel complement the fresh and crisp taste of parsley.

How to Use it Together

Fennel and parsley can be used together to flavor salads and vegetable dishes. Simply chop both herbs finely and sprinkle them on top of the dish.

14. Lemon Balm

A Citrusy and Minty Flavor

Lemon balm has a citrusy and minty flavor that pairs well with parsley. The lemony and herbaceous notes of lemon balm complement the fresh and tangy taste of parsley.

How to Use it Together

Lemon balm and parsley can be used together to flavor tea, desserts, and fruit dishes. Simply chop both herbs finely and mix them into the dish.

15. Lovage

A Bold and Savory Flavor

Lovage has a bold and savory flavor that pairs well with parsley. The celery-like notes of lovage complement the fresh and crisp taste of parsley.

How to Use it Together

Lovage and parsley can be used together to flavor soups, stews, and sauces. Simply add the herbs to the dish towards the end of cooking to preserve their flavor and aroma.


In parsley is a versatile herb that pairs well with a variety of other herbs. By combining parsley with different companion herbs, you can create unique and delicious flavors that will enhance your culinary creations. Whether you are making pesto, seasoning meat, or flavoring soups, there is a parsley companion herb for every occasion.

FAQs

Q1. Can I use dried parsley and companion herbs instead of fresh ones?

Yes, you can use dried herbs instead of fresh ones. However, keep in mind that dried herbs are more concentrated than fresh ones. As a general rule, use one-third of the amount of dried herbs as you would use fresh herbs.

Q2. What are some other herbs that pair well with parsley?

Some other herbs that pair well with parsley include chervil, savory, and tarragon.

Q3. Can I grow parsley and companion herbs in my garden?

Yes, parsley and companion herbs can be grown in a garden. They prefer well-drained soil and partial shade.

Q4. How long does parsley last in the fridge?

Fresh parsley can last up to two weeks in the fridge if stored properly. To store parsley, wrap it in a damp paper towel and place it in a plastic bag.

Q5. Can I freeze parsley and companion herbs?

Yes, parsley and companion herbs can be frozen. Simply chop them finely and place them in an ice cube tray. Fill each cube with water or olive oil and freeze. The cubes can be used to flavor dishes anytime.

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