A Tribute to Parsley | The Underrated Nutritional Powerhouse & Kitchen Essential

Parsley is such a common kitchen herb, it is rarely given the respect it deserves. We often see parsley used as a garnish on the plates of food served in restaurants. Yet parsley is much more than a decoration. The nutritional treasure stored in a handful of these vibrant green leaves is impressive. Parsley contains vitamin K1, vitamin C, beta carotene, B vitamins, calcium, and iron. It is also a source of cell-protecting antioxidants known as flavonoids. With such an impressive resume, I like to include this herb in my diet whenever possible.

Parsley enjoys growing alongside other herbs in our Wildwood Tree Farm garden throughout the warmer months. During the winter months (and all year round), it can easily be found in grocery stores.

Flat or Curly

There are two common types of parsley, the curly leaf and the flat leaf variety. Curly leaf parsley has a fresh, slightly peppery flavor. My mother often included this variety when she prepared green salads.

The flat-leafed parsley, often known as Italian parsley, has a more intense flavor. It is the one used by chefs. However, if the Italian parsley is not available, the curly variety can certainly take its place.

How to Use Parsley

Parsley is best used fresh. Have you ever noticed how it withers away, even when it is stored inside the vegetable bin of your fridge? To remedy this unfortunate situation, cut ½ inch from the bottom of the stems and store it in a bit of water until ready to use.

The mild, tangy flavor is subtle, but can change the flavor of soup, spreads, and so much more.

• Stir it into soups, sauces, stuffings, and stews

• Sprinkle it over meat, seafood, and rice

• Toss it into salads and salad dressings

• Add it to butter for spreading on bread

• Use it as a topping on bakes potatoes and sandwiches

In upcoming posts, I’ll be sharing two of my favorite ways to use parsley. The first is a smoothie that will get your day off to a great start. The second post is a cream cheese herbal spread that will easily become a recipe you will make again and again.