Differences between Cilantro and Parsley
Contents
Cilantro vs. Parsley
Cilantro (Coriandrum sativum) and parsley (Petroselinum crispum) are leafy green herbs from the Apiaceae family.[1][2] Though they share a similar appearance, particularly flat-leaf parsley and cilantro, they possess distinct flavors, aromas, and culinary applications.[3][4] Both are widely used in cuisines globally, but they are generally not interchangeable.[3]
Comparison Table
| Category | Cilantro | Parsley |
|---|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Coriandrum sativum[3] | Petroselinum crispum[5] |
| Also Known As | Coriander, Chinese Parsley[1] | Italian Parsley (flat-leaf), French Parsley (curly) |
| Leaf Shape | Rounded, fan-shaped with jagged edges[5] | Pointed, serrated leaves (flat-leaf) or tightly frilled (curly)[5] |
| Aroma | Strong, citrusy, and pungent[3] | Mild, fresh, and grassy[1] |
| Flavor Profile | Bright, citrusy, and peppery. A genetic variation can cause a soapy taste for some individuals. | Mild, slightly peppery, and herbaceous (flat-leaf); very mild (curly). |
| Culinary Uses | Salsas, curries, guacamole, and as a garnish in Latin American, Asian, and Indian cuisines.[1] | Used in a wide range of dishes including salads, soups, stews, sauces (like pesto and chimichurri), and as a garnish. |
| Use of Stems | Tender and flavorful, often chopped and used along with the leaves.[1] | Can be tough and are often reserved for stocks or discarded. |
| Heat Tolerance | Delicate; flavor diminishes with heat, often added at the end of cooking or used fresh. | More robust; can be added during the cooking process. |
Appearance and Varieties
The most common types of parsley are curly-leaf and flat-leaf, also known as Italian parsley. Flat-leaf parsley is frequently mistaken for cilantro. A key difference lies in the leaf shape; cilantro leaves are more rounded and scalloped, while flat-leaf parsley leaves are pointed and serrated.[5] Curly parsley is easily identifiable by its dense, ruffled leaves.[1]
Flavor and Aroma
The most significant distinction between the two herbs is their taste and smell. Cilantro has a strong, complex flavor that is often described as citrusy and peppery. However, for a segment of the population, a specific olfactory receptor gene causes them to perceive a soapy or metallic taste. This is due to the presence of aldehyde compounds, which are also found in soap.
Parsley, in contrast, has a much milder flavor profile. Flat-leaf parsley offers a fresh, herbaceous, and slightly peppery taste, while curly parsley is significantly milder and is often used as a garnish. The aroma of parsley is clean and grassy, which is much less potent than the sharp, citrus-like scent of cilantro.[1][3]
Culinary Applications
Due to their distinct flavors, cilantro and parsley are featured in different types of cuisine. Cilantro is a staple in Mexican, Southeast Asian, Caribbean, and Indian dishes, commonly used in salsas, curries, chutneys, and as a topping for tacos and soups.[1] The stems of the cilantro plant are also flavorful and are often used along with the leaves.
Parsley is a versatile herb in European, Middle Eastern, and American cooking. It is a key ingredient in dishes like tabbouleh and sauces such as chimichurri and gremolata.[1] It is also frequently added to soups, stews, and salads. Parsley is more heat-tolerant than cilantro and can be incorporated during cooking, whereas cilantro is often added at the end or used raw to preserve its flavor.
Nutritional Information
Both herbs are low in calories and offer a range of nutrients.[3] They are good sources of vitamins A and C. Parsley is particularly rich in vitamin K, which is important for blood clotting and bone health.[3] Cilantro provides notable amounts of vitamins and minerals as well, including folate and potassium.
References
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5 1.6 1.7 1.8 "hexclad.com". Retrieved December 10, 2025.
- ↑ "milesawayfarmww.com". Retrieved December 10, 2025.
- ↑ 3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 3.5 3.6 "healthline.com". Retrieved December 10, 2025.
- ↑ "foodnetwork.com". Retrieved December 10, 2025.
- ↑ 5.0 5.1 5.2 5.3 "sproutedgarden.com". Retrieved December 10, 2025.
