Have you ever noticed the green leave restaurants use to garnish foods? Most likely, that little leaf is parsley. Parsley is one of the most popular herbs used in cooking. There are more parsley uses out there than your average herb. Grown in the Mediterranean region, it's mainly found in European cuisine.
A few months ago, I had the opportunity to go abroad to learn about the Mediterranean diet in Southern Italy. The experience was life-changing, but one of the coolest things we got to do was to learn from and cook with a local chef who spoke absolutely no English. One of the main components in all of her dishes was parsley. She used it as a condiment, garnish, and as a flavoring. Learning from her inspired me to look at more parsley uses out there, and to my surprise I found so many more than I ever imagined.
1. Parsley Pesto
Pesto can be made out of anything, from kale to mint to basil. In this case, parsley is the main component for the pesto. If you throw it on some pasta, wraps, or even sandwiches, you'll never want to go back.
2. Chimichurri
One of my favorite things to make at home when we grill meat is chimichurri. You can't have a good cut of churrasco without chimichurri, it just doesn't work that way. Parsley is the main ingredient in chimichurri. It's usually made with tons of olive oil, garlic, and cilantro as well, and it works as a great marinade or a topping on many cuts of meat.
3. Parsley Ravioli with Brown Butter Sauce
Before you totally reject this idea, you have to give it a try. Parsley ravioli has a fresh taste to it, and pairing this dish with a brown butter sauce will give it an exquisite sweetness.
4. Spinach and Parsley Quiche
Quiche is one of the most versatile foods out there. Spinach and parsley quiche is a great way to use up parsley in your fridge and spice up your brunch game a little bit.
5. Parsley Cake
Parsley cake is a great way to 'wow' your guests and add to your list of leftover parsley uses. Plus, it's super fresh, and it's basically like eating a vegetable right?
6. Grilled Cheese and Pesto Sandwich
Adding parsley pesto to your grilled cheese sandwich is a step up from your classic grilled cheese. Gouda, provolone, or a creamy goat cheese are all great options for your pesto grilled cheese.
7. Parsley Hummus
Hummus is at the top of my list of things to do with parsley. Sometimes it can get really monotonous if you're only eating the classic Sabra hummus from the store. Instead, make your own hummus, save some money, and use more parsley all at the same time.
8. Green Juice
Some people take the statement "drink your greens" very seriously. My go-to always includes cucumbers, celery, pineapple, and lemon juice. However, adding leafy greens such as spinach or even parsley not only adds to the beautiful green color but also to your morning greens' nutritional value.
9. Italian Gremolata
Essentially made up of parsley, lemon, and garlic, gremolata is an Italian condiment and garnish used in many Italian dishes. Gremolata is perfect for adding freshness and color to your dishes, including but not limited to pasta, soups, and vegetables.
10. Tabbouleh
Tabbouleh is a super fresh and easy salad made with parsley, mint, bulgur, onion, and lots of olive oil. It is one of the best ways to use up parsley, and it's also a fiber-packed salad.
I know what you're thinking, can I really make all that out of parsley leaves? Yes you can. If you don't believe me, then go ahead and try one of these recipes for yourself to prove it!