Is Parsley Similar to Cilantro? Key Differences Explained

By Marcus Williams · January 24, 2026

Is parsley similar to cilantro? While parsley and cilantro are both leafy green herbs often used in cooking, they are not the same. They belong to the same family (Apiaceae) but are different species with distinct flavors, aromas, and culinary uses. Parsley has a mild, fresh taste, while cilantro has a bold, citrusy, and sometimes soapy flavor due to genetic differences in perception.

Understanding Parsley and Cilantro: Key Differences

Though parsley and cilantro may look alike to the untrained eye, especially in their flat-leaf varieties, they differ significantly in flavor, aroma, and use across global cuisines. Confusing them can alter the taste of a dish dramatically.

Visual and Structural Differences

Parsley (Petroselinum crispum): Comes in curly and flat-leaf (Italian) types. Leaves are bright green, with curly parsley having ruffled edges and flat-leaf resembling cilantro but less deeply serrated.
Cilantro (Coriandrum sativum): Also known as coriander leaves. Has broader, more rounded, lacy leaves with deeper lobes compared to flat-leaf parsley.
Stems: Cilantro stems tend to be more hollow and slightly thicker, while parsley stems are solid and thinner.

Flavor and Aroma Profiles

Parsley offers a clean, slightly peppery, and grassy flavor—ideal as a garnish or fresh addition to dishes like tabbouleh or gremolata.
Cilantro has a polarizing taste: citrusy and bright for some, soapy and unpleasant for others due to genetic sensitivity to aldehyde chemicals found in the plant.

Culinary Uses Compared

The role each herb plays in cooking highlights their non-interchangeability in many recipes.

Dishes Featuring Parsley

Mediterranean salads (e.g., tabbouleh)
Herb sauces like chimichurri and gremolata
Garnishing soups, stews, and roasted meats
Parsley is often used in larger quantities due to its milder flavor.

Dishes Featuring Cilantro

Mexican salsas and guacamole
Thai curries and Vietnamese pho
Indian chutneys and spice blends
Used more sparingly due to strong flavor; often added at the end of cooking.

Nutritional Comparison: Parsley vs. Cilantro

Both herbs offer health benefits but vary in nutrient density. The table below compares key nutritional values per 100g of raw herb.

Nutrient	Parsley (per 100g)	Cilantro (per 100g)
Calories	36 kcal	23 kcal
Vitamin K	1640 mcg	310 mcg
Vitamin C	133 mg	27 mg
Vitamin A	421 mcg	337 mcg
Folate (B9)	152 mcg	62 mcg
Iron	6.2 mg	1.8 mg

Table data source:USDA FoodData Central

Parsley is significantly richer in vitamin K, vitamin C, and iron than cilantro. It contains over five times more vitamin K and nearly five times the vitamin C. This makes parsley one of the most nutrient-dense herbs available. Cilantro, while lower in micronutrients, still contributes antioxidants and phytonutrients linked to detoxification support.

Growing and Sourcing Tips

For gardeners and home cooks, knowing how to grow and select these herbs ensures freshness and optimal flavor.

Planting and Care

Parsley: Biennial grown as annual. Prefers full sun to partial shade, well-drained soil. Slow germination (up to 4 weeks). Needs consistent moisture.
Cilantro: Fast-growing annual. Bolt-prone in heat. Best grown in cool seasons. Requires full sun and regular watering.

Buying Fresh Herbs

Look for vibrant green leaves without yellowing or wilting.
Avoid bunches with slimy stems—sign of spoilage.
Smell test: Parsley should smell fresh and neutral; cilantro has a distinctive citrusy-pungent aroma.

Frequently Asked Questions About Parsley and Cilantro

Can I substitute parsley for cilantro in recipes?

You can substitute parsley for cilantro if you dislike cilantro’s flavor or need a milder alternative. However, the dish will lack the signature citrusy note of cilantro. For closer flavor mimicry, mix parsley with a squeeze of lime juice and a few drops of lemon zest.

Why does cilantro taste like soap to some people?

About 14–21% of people have a genetic variation in the OR6A2 gene that makes them sensitive to aldehyde compounds in cilantro, which also occur in some soaps. This causes a soapy taste perception. Parsley does not contain these compounds and is safe for all palates.

Are parsley and cilantro the same plant?

No, parsley (Petroselinum crispum) and cilantro (Coriandrum sativum) are different plants belonging to the Apiaceae family. Cilantro seeds become coriander spice, while parsley seeds are not commonly used in cooking.

Which herb is healthier: parsley or cilantro?

Parsley is more nutritionally dense, especially in vitamins K and C, and iron. However, both herbs provide beneficial antioxidants and polyphenols. Including either—or both—in your diet supports overall health.

How do I store parsley and cilantro to keep them fresh?

Trim the stems and place them in a jar with an inch of water. Cover loosely with a plastic bag and refrigerate. Change water every 2–3 days. Parsley lasts up to 2 weeks; cilantro, being more delicate, lasts 7–10 days.