All About Parsley

“Because of its light scent and fresh taste, parsley can be used in anything from soups to sauces to vegetables.” - Saad Fayed

Parsley is more than a garnish. It can help with bad breath as well as provide other positive benefits!

Five Fun Facts

• Parsley was used for garlands and wreaths for special occasions by the ancient Romans - it was not just used as a food.
• Parsley is actually in the same family of plants as celery, carrots, cumin, and cilantro.
• As a plant native to the Mediterranean region, the Greek word for parsley translates, “rock celery,” due to the plant being able to thrive on hard surfaces such as on rocks and along walls - less than optimal seeming conditions.
• Parsley is a natural cure for bad breath when chewed!
• Of the top U.S. contributors, California takes the lead with 40% of parsley production.

Nutrition Info 

The amount of a common topping for a dish, which is about two tablespoons (8 grams) of parsley, provides:

• 12% of the recommended daily intake of Vitamin A: 
• 16% of Vitamin C
• 154% of Vitamin K

All of that is accomplished with just consuming two calories! It is also a source of:

• Magnesium
• Potassium
• Folate
• Iron
• Calcium

Benefits

Parsley may be thought of as a decorative finish to some, but it has actual health benefits! 

Parsley is thought to improve blood sugar.

Parsley can improve heart disease risk factors by:

• Reducing chronic inflammation
• Regulating blood pressure 
• Decreasing LDL (bad) cholesterol levels.

Cautions

If consumed in very large amounts, it is possible for parsley to cause anemia and liver or kidney problems. Also, parsley seed oil applied topically can cause sun sensitivity.

Suggested Recipes

Garlic and Parsley Potatoes

Walnut and Parsley Pesto

Parmesan and Parsley Sausage Ball Appetizer

Slow Cooker Parsley Chicken

Parsley Jelly

Basil and Parsley Asparagus
 

For the Kids and Kids-at-Heart

Download this activity sheet to practice Parsley Writing!