Chimichurri
Taking its rightful place among the world’s most beloved sauces, chimichurri is the perfect condiment to elevate any dish. Its versatility is unmatched, and for good reason – it pairs particularly well with chicken skewers, where the smoky flavors of the grill are perfectly balanced by the tangy zip of the sauce. When poured over a flank steak or paired with fish, chimichurri adds a burst of freshness that leaves you wanting more.
This classic Argentinean sauce has been winning hearts and taste buds for years, not just as a topping, but also as a marinade that tenderizes even the toughest cuts of meat. At its core, chimichurri is a harmonious blend of finely chopped parsley, swimming in a bath of red wine vinegar with a hint of garlic, creating an unforgettable flavor experience.
Lebanese Tabbouleh Salad
Beyond its simplicity, Tabbouleh remains a lunch staple that never fails to satisfy my cravings. Its essence lies in the perfect balance of fresh parsley and a subtle hint of mint, creating an invigorating flavor profile. The juicy tomatoes are finely chopped into tiny morsels, while a squeeze of lemon juice adds a zesty brightness to the dish.
While some purists may insist on using traditional burglar wheat, I find that substituting it with couscous is a convenient and equally delicious alternative when time is of the essence.
Chicken Piccata
Taking the hassle out of cooking dinner on a busy weeknight has never been easier with chicken piccata. This dish is a game-changer for anyone looking for a quick yet satisfying meal. In just 20 minutes, you can have a wholesome and deliciously flavorful meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. The boneless chicken breast is cooked to perfection with a golden brown sear on the outside and remains incredibly juicy on the inside.
To elevate it to the next level, simply smother it in a tangy lemon white wine caper sauce, finishing it off with a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
Senegalese Black-Eyed Pea Salad
Combining fresh flavors with cozy undertones, this Senegalese-inspired vegan bean salad is a masterclass in healthy eating. The dish brings together an assortment of produce, including black-eyed peas, which form a nutritious base for the salad. Crisp ingredients like bell peppers and cucumber add texture, while parsley provides a burst of green freshness.
To prepare the legumes from scratch can take time, but using canned black-eyed peas is a convenient alternative that still yields impressive results.
Winter Pasta
Gathering your cravings for a warm, comforting bowl of pasta is what this recipe is all about. Gone are the days of settling for bland, store-bought options; with this dish, you’ll be indulging in homemade Italian sausage meatballs that rest on top of perfectly cooked farfalle, accompanied by crisp sage and caramelized mushrooms that add a depth of flavor to each bite.
As the sauce simmers, it’s infused with half-and-half, which not only adds creaminess but also a hint of parsley that cleverly balances out the richness without overpowering the dish. And let’s not forget the crowning glory: a sprinkle of crunchy walnut and parmesan shavings that adds an satisfying textural element to each spoonful.
Herbed Potato Salad
Just like many potato salad recipes, this one also has its own twist – it doesn’t rely on mayonnaise. In fact, this version is so good that even mayonnaise lovers might be surprised by how much they enjoy it. One of the key reasons why this recipe stands out from others is the use of thinly sliced red potatoes, which are smothered in a delicious and refreshing lemon parsley dressing that’s incredibly more flavorful than traditional mayonnaise.
Killer Lemon Butter Sauce for Fish
Finding yourself craving a speedy seafood meal? Look no further than this incredibly delicious dish, which pairs perfectly cooked white fish with a rich and tangy lemon butter sauce. When it comes to cooking delicate white fish, the combination of lemon and butter is a match made in heaven, but what really sets this recipe apart is the ideal balance of flavors achieved through the ratio of ingredients used.
Sabzi Polo (Persian Herb Rice)
Underneath the vibrant herbs and spices, sabzi polo boasts a delectable surprise in its bottom layer – a crispy base of flatbread that has become everyone’s favorite part of this traditional Persian dish. The combination of parsley, cilantro, dill, and green onions on top is indeed mouthwatering, but it’s the crunchy texture from the flatbread at the bottom that truly elevates sabzi polo to new heights.
Prosciutto-Wrapped Shrimp & Goat Cheese Appetizer
Hailing from the world of Italian cuisine, prosciutto-wrapped dishes have earned a special place in many people’s hearts. When combined with succulent shrimp and creamy goat cheese, it’s a match made in heaven! Each plump shrimp is carefully prepared with a parsley-infused goat cheese stuffing and wrapped in a delicate slice of thin prosciutto. To add an extra layer of texture, give them a quick fry for a crispy exterior that will leave your guests wanting more.
Serve these bite-sized treats at your next dinner party and watch as they vanish in an instant, leaving everyone asking for seconds.
Ham and Herb Quiche
Here, quiche is a crowd-pleaser whether you’re serving it at a potluck or during the holidays. Among its many appealing qualities are the versatility of fillings and classic combinations like ham and herb. This particular version boasts bite-sized pieces of deli ham, sautéed onions that add a touch of sweetness, and an assortment of fresh herbs including parsley, thyme, and rosemary. And let’s not forget the melted cheddar cheese that adds depth to this satisfying dish.
Cheddar Garlic Swirl Rolls
Just imagine the look on your guests’ faces when they take a bite of these mouthwatering garlic rolls, featuring a delightful swirl of garlic butter infused with fresh parsley. But what really sets them apart is the combination of two types of cheese, adding an extra layer of flavor to each heavenly roll. Ditch the ordinary and opt for these showstopping treats instead – your guests will be absolutely thrilled that you did.
Quinoa Stuffed Peppers
Not only do these stuffed peppers spark enthusiasm at our family gatherings, but they also bring people together with their vibrant colors and tantalizing flavors. The bell peppers are cooked to perfection, turning out nice and tender in the oven. Once done, they’re generously filled with a mouthwatering vegetarian mixture made from quinoa, pungent garlic, crumbled feta cheese, fresh parsley, and a pinch of other aromatic herbs.
French Carrot Salad
Vibrant flavors are just around the corner with this effortless French-inspired carrot salad. Simply combining shredded carrots and parsley with a freshly made French dressing yields a dish that’s both visually appealing and full of life. With only 15 minutes of your time, you can experience the ease and simplicity of creating something truly special.
Herb Chicken Breast
Generally, when searching for a unique herb combination in recipes, one option is to pair cilantro with parsley. A simple and nutritious recipe that incorporates both herbs is a grilled or baked chicken breast dish. The chicken breast is seasoned with a fresh rub of parsley, cilantro, garlic, and lemon, allowing the flavors to meld together before cooking. To prepare it for grilling, let the chicken rest for about 10-15 minutes, then place it on the grill.
Alternatively, if the weather is not conducive to outdoor cooking, you can bake the chicken in a preheated oven instead.
Mediterranean Orzo Salad
Noteworthy for its simplicity and flavor, Mediterranean orzo salad is an ideal recipe to have up your sleeve. The harmonious combination of juicy tomatoes, salty kalamata olives, and fresh parsley creates a delightful taste experience that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick weeknight dinner or need a reliable side dish, this versatile salad fits the bill perfectly.
It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or can be made ahead of time for a convenient work lunch, making it an incredibly easy and adaptable option either way.
Easy Lemon Orzo Salad with Feta
Bright flavors and textures are a must when it comes to satisfying my pasta salad cravings. I’m particularly fond of dishes that balance sharp cheese notes with a hint of freshness from greens, and the orzo salad on hand checks all these requirements off the list. When selecting herbs for this particular dish, I tend to favor Italian parsley over other varieties. Its broad, flat leaves possess a clean and slightly peppery taste that complements the fresh basil nicely.
Sauteed Mushrooms
Packed with earthy flavors and a hint of citrus, this simple recipe is perfect for mushroom enthusiasts. To prepare the dish, two types of mushrooms are quickly sautéed in a pan before being simmered in a generous glug of white wine and lemon juice. For optimal flavor, it’s best to wait until the end to add the fresh parsley, allowing its delicate texture to remain crisp.
Zucchini Noodles
Nourishing zoodles are a treat to create and savor. Instead of drowning them in a rich sauce, infuse them with fresh tomatoes for added flavor. To prepare the dish, you cook the tomatoes until they soften and break down, then add the zoodles. Be cautious not to overcook them, as this can result in an unpleasantly soggy texture. Finally, garnish your plate with a generous amount of parsley, a subtle yet essential finishing touch that elevates the entire experience.
Chickpea Salad
Often, a quick and easy salad recipe is just what we need to brighten up our lunch routine. One such favorite of mine is this chickpea salad, which ticks all the right boxes for a satisfying meal on-the-go. Not only is it budget-friendly, but its preparation time is also incredibly flexible – I often make it the night before work and have a fresh, ready-to-eat lunch waiting for me in the morning.
The ingredients are simple yet effective: combine freshly chopped parsley with thinly sliced red onion, a squeeze of lemon juice, and a can or two of chickpeas for a protein-packed base. Don’t forget to drizzle in some high-quality olive oil for added richness – although you can skip the sugar if you prefer your flavors unadulterated.
Baked Shrimp with Tomatoes and Feta
Often, nothing satisfies like a hearty seafood dinner that warms the soul. The combination of succulent shrimp in a rich tomato base infused with the freshness of basil and parsley creates a dish that’s both comforting and flavorful. Adding crumbled feta cheese provides an extra layer of depth, while serving it alongside crusty sourdough bread makes for a satisfying meal.
Whether you prefer fresh or frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw out the latter thoroughly before cooking, so you can enjoy its full flavor.
Perfect Homemade Garlic Bread
Making homemade garlic bread is often overlooked in favor of store-bought options, but with this simple recipe, there’s no excuse not to make your own. I confess, when time is short, I do resort to buying it from the market. However, the process involved in making garlic bread at home is so straightforward that it’s truly a shame to settle for anything less. To prepare it, you’ll need a large, fluffy loaf of French bread as the base.
Spread a generous amount of parsley and garlic butter evenly over the bread, followed by a sprinkle of parmesan cheese. Finally, place it in the oven until it reaches your desired level of golden brown perfection.
Vegan Falafel Burgers
Bursting with flavors, falafel burgers are a delightful treat that caters to both meat-eaters and vegans. The patty is a substantial round made from chickpeas, packed with an array of spices, garlic, and fragrant herbs like cilantro and parsley. With such a medley of flavors, it’s easy to see why many people find them a satisfying alternative to traditional burgers.
Mediterranean Couscous Tuna Bowls
Understanding the beauty of simplicity, Mediterranean bowls offer an ingenious way to repurpose canned tuna into a delicious and satisfying meal. Underlying this concept is the incorporation of traditional Mediterranean ingredients such as artichoke hearts and olives, which not only add flavor but also cultural authenticity. Unifying these components is a sprinkle of parsley, whose subtle freshness elevates the dish without overpowering it.
Ultimately, couscous cooks quickly, allowing you to have your meal ready in under 15 minutes.
Gremolata
Make the most of Italian cuisine with gremolata, a flavorful condiment that’s bursting with parsley and citrus flavors. Gremolata is typically made by mixing lemon juice, grated zest, garlic, and fresh Italian parsley together in a harmonious balance. To create this quick and easy condiment, you can either chop all the ingredients finely by hand or blend them briefly in a food processor.
Just be mindful of the blending time to achieve the desired chunky texture, allowing gremolata to add a delightful zing to your favorite proteins.
Garlic Mushroom Chicken Thighs
Elevating humble ingredients like chicken and mushrooms to new heights, this dish is a true delight. Mouthwatering combinations of earthy mushrooms and tender chicken come together in perfect harmony with a rich garlic butter sauce that’s both comforting and toothsome. Whether you prefer to keep it low-carb or serve it with a side of fluffy white rice for added sustenance, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Chipotle Black Bean Soup
Cooking at home has many advantages, including being able to tailor dishes to your personal preferences. For me, that means always ordering black bean soup when I visit Chipotle, but now that I have the recipe, I can make it myself at home. Making this soup is surprisingly easy and only requires a handful of ingredients, such as black beans, spices, garlic, and parsley.
The combination of these simple components creates a rich and complex flavor profile that is sure to please even the most discerning palate.
Roasted Carrots with Garlic Parsley Butter
Kicking off any gathering or casual dinner, roasted carrots bring a burst of color and taste to the table. Not just limited to holidays like Thanksgiving, these tasty sticks can be added to your meal on any day of the week. By roasting them until tender, you can then coat them in a rich garlic parsley butter, adding an extra layer of flavor that’s surprisingly quick to prepare.
Meatless Baked Ziti
Creating something new this Meatless Monday doesn’t have to mean sacrificing flavor or authenticity. Baked ziti is an excellent option for those looking for a meat-free twist on classic comfort food. The beauty of baked ziti lies in its simplicity, as it can be prepared without the need for intricate layering often associated with lasagna.
Laura Hauser is a food writer and editor passionate about authentic, approachable home cooking.
