Is it acceptable to substitute parsley for cilantro in a recipe?

Stephanie S., Macomb, IL Absolutely. In fact fresh parsley this is the herb of choice to substitute for cilantro when one does not like the taste of cilantro. However if you like a fresher distinctive flavor, then try substituting half fresh mint and half parsley.

It is acceptable to substitute flat-leaf parsley for cilantro in recipes if cilantro is not readily available. Another option is to combine mint and Thai basil to recreate a similar taste. However, you should not substitute cilantro for parsley (the other way around), as cilantro has a very distinctive taste that is much stronger and may not fit well into the original recipe.