Basil vs Parsley
A side-by-side guide to substituting Parsley for Basil (or vice versa).
Use 1.5 tbsp of Parsley for every 1 tbsp of Basil.
Side-by-side
Parsley
Conversion: Use 1.5× as much (1.5 tbsp per 1 tbsp)
Tags: common
Notes: Parsley is milder and less sweet than basil. Use about 1.5 times the amount for similar volume; expect a more subtle herbal note. Best where basil is not the star flavor.
Read the full guide: Parsley
Calculate the exact swap for your recipe in seconds.
Open calculator →When to use Parsley instead of Basil
Parsley is milder and less sweet than basil. Use about 1.5 times the amount for similar volume; expect a more subtle herbal note. Best where basil is not the star flavor. The conversion is use 1.5× as much (1.5 tbsp per 1 tbsp).
Common questions
Yes — Parsley is milder and less sweet than basil. Use about 1.5 times the amount for similar volume; expect a more subtle herbal note. Best where basil is not the star flavor. Ratio: Use 1.5× as much (1.5 tbsp per 1 tbsp).
Use 1.5× as much (1.5 tbsp per 1 tbsp). For other quantities, use the SubSwap calculator.
They are similar in most uses, but Parsley is milder and less sweet than basil..
Parsley is one of the options SubSwap lists for Basil. The 'best' choice depends on your recipe — see the full list of Basil substitutes.
Looking for more Basil substitutes beyond Parsley?
See all Basil swaps →