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Parsley, although often treated as a mere spice or decoration, has a lot to offer in terms of nutritional value and health properties. In this article, we will take a closer look at parsley, its nutritional values, various uses and methods of storage. Find out why it is worth including it in your daily diet and what recipes you can prepare using this aromatic plant.
Parsley – characteristics
Parsley is a green plant from the Apiaceae family, popularly used as a spice and decoration for dishes. Its delicate taste and aroma perfectly complement many dishes, both raw and cooked. It is rich in vitamin C, vitamin K, folic acid, iron and many other nutrients.
Parsley – nutritional values, calories, glycemic index
Parsley is a real source of vitamin C, which strengthens our immune system. Additionally, it contains vitamin K, which is essential for bone health and blood clotting. Parsley is low in calories, which makes it an excellent addition to the diet of people who care about their weight. The glycemic index of parsley is close to zero, which means that it does not significantly affect blood sugar levels.
Properties of parsley
Parsley has many beneficial health properties. It has anti-atherosclerotic properties, helps maintain a healthy heart and lowers blood pressure. In addition, it has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help protect the body against diseases. Regularly eating parsley can also aid digestion and improve the functioning of the digestive system.
Uses of parsley – what to add it to? what can you make with it?
Parsley is a versatile plant that can be added to many dishes. Freshly chopped parsley goes perfectly with salads, soups, sauces and meat dishes. It can also be used to prepare pesto or aromatic dips. Additionally, parsley gives dishes not only flavor, but also freshness and color.
Another use of parsley
Moreover, parsley is used not only in the kitchen, but also in cosmetics. Its extract is often used for skin care because it contains many valuable nutrients. It can be used to prepare homemade masks or tonics with moisturizing and cleansing properties.
Parsley – how to store it? how to dry and freeze it?
To keep parsley fresh, store it in the refrigerator. You can also put it in a jar of water and cover it with aluminum foil. For people who want to preserve its aroma for longer, it can be dried or frozen. Dried parsley is perfect for seasoning dishes during the winter months, while frozen parsley retains most of its nutritional value and aroma.
Parsley – contraindications
Despite its many health benefits, parsley may not be suitable for everyone. People who are allergic to celery or other plants from the Apiaceae family should avoid eating parsley because it may lead to allergic reactions. Moreover, people with kidney stones should limit its consumption due to the oxalic acid content.
Healthy recipes with parsley
Now that you know all the benefits of parsley, it’s worth trying some healthy recipes in which it can play a starring role. Here are some suggestions:
- Parsley salad: Chop fresh parsley, tomatoes, cucumbers and onion. Add lemon juice, olive oil and salt to taste.
- Cream soup with parsley: Boil potatoes, carrots and onions, then mix them with parsley. Serve with extra cream.
- Parsley pesto: Mix parsley with walnuts, Parmesan, garlic and olive oil. Perfect for pasta or as a meat sauce.
Your suggestions
If you have your own ideas for using parsley in the kitchen or would like to share your experiences, feel free to write in the comments below. We’d love to hear your recipes and suggestions for this aromatic plant!
Recommended articles
If you are interested in healthy eating and using natural products in the kitchen, we also recommend reading our other articles on this topic. You’ll learn more about the health benefits of different ingredients, tasty recipes, and ways to take care of your body.
Parsley is undoubtedly a valuable ingredient that can enrich our diet and bring many health benefits. With its help, we can prepare tasty and healthy dishes that will delight our palates. So let’s not forget about this humble green leaf and use it in the kitchen as often as possible!