Parsley feels like an old friend; it’s reliable, bright and makes everything just a little bit happier. A member of the Apiaceae family (along with dill, fennel, coriander and anise), parsley has been used across Italy and Europe for more than 2,000 years. Perhaps parsley’s greatest perk is how versatile it is, adding brightness and depth to salads, soups, sauces and other classic Italian dishes.
About Parsley:
- Parsley is the world’s most popular herb and derives its name from the Greek word meaning “rock celery.” Parsley is also a natural breath freshener, which is one of the reasons why it’s popularly used as a table garnish.
- The ancient Greeks believed parsley was sacred and used it both to adorn victors of athletic contests as well as the tombs of the deceased.
- Parsley also has many nutritional benefits and includes vitamin C, vitamin A, folic acid and various antioxidants.
Pairs Well With: Basil, bay leaf, beef, chives, dill, garlic, lettuce, marjoram, mushrooms, grains, onion, oregano, thyme, tomatoes.
Preparing & Storing Parsley:
- There are many varieties of parsley, which fall into two main types: curly leaf and flat leaf. We recommend using flat leaf Italian parsley in Italian cooking for a fuller flavor.
- When shopping for fresh parsley, look for perky, bright green bundles and shy away from anything yellow or wilted.
- Fresh parsley can be washed and stored in the fridge for up to a week. Make sure to keep the bunches in a glass of fresh water and covered with a plastic bag.
Recipes to Try with Parsley: