Parsnip Recipes (+ Produce Guide)
This collection of Parsnip Recipes will inspire you to use it all fall and winter long! Recipes include parsnip soup, parsnip purée, roasted parsnips and more! You’ll also find handy info such as nutrition information, choosing and storing it, and how to cook parsnips!
Parsnips have to be one of the most underrated vegetables out there, mostly because people simply haven’t been exposed to them.
If you’re not familiar with them, they’re a root vegetable that belong in the flowering plant family Apiaceae, which also includes carrots, fennel and parsley.
I certainly hadn’t been exposed to them growing up. One day many years ago I watched an episode of Barefoot Contessa, which included Ina Garten preparing roasted root vegetables. One variety was parsnips, and I was intrigued to try them.
I tried roasted carrots and parsnips, and I was sold. I loved the parsnips even more than the carrots, and couldn’t wait to incorporate them in more of my recipes.
Now they’re a staple in my kitchen, and I use them in a variety of dishes such as parsnip purée and parsnip soup on a regular basis.
If you’re never tried parsnips, or need some inspiration on how to use parsnips in some new, exciting ways, you’re in the right place!
What do parsnips look like?
Parsnips resemble white carrots, although they are generally larger and much more rustic looking. They have cream colored skin and flesh.
They vary in size from smaller with tapered ends like carrots, or they’re often very large with much smaller tapered bottoms.
What do parsnips taste like?
The flavor of parsnips is even sweeter than carrots, and they have an earthy, woody flavor that really sets them apart.
Their flavor becomes even sweeter after they’ve been exposed to frost, so they’re readily available and at their peak in the fall and winter months.
Can you eat parsnips raw?
Yes, parsnips can be eaten raw. They have a crisp and crunchy texture similar to raw carrots and jicama. Larger parsnips have a tough, woody core that should be removed when eating them raw.
They should be scrubbed clean, then cut into sticks to be enjoyed in dips or sauce for a healthy snack. They may also be peeled into ribbons or grated and added to fresh salads and coleslaw.
Note that parsnips do brown quickly after they’ve been peeled and cut, so if you’re not using them right away it’s a good idea to soak them in lemon water until you’re ready to use them.
Should I peel parsnips?
While there is a large amount of nutrition just under the skin of parsnips, removing the peel will result in a smoother texture in your dishes.
The age and size of the parsnip(s) are also a factor:
Small, young parsnips have tender skin, so there’s no need to peel them.
Larger, older parsnips have tougher skin that lend an unpleasant texture, so it’s best to peel them.
Choosing and storing parsnips
Choose parsnips that are firm and heavy in size for their weight and free of discoloration.
Store unwashed parsnips in the refrigerator in a plastic bag or wrapped in a paper towel for up to 2 weeks. Once cooked, store them in the refrigerator and use within 3-5 days.
If you’re ever unsure how to store different types of produce once you get them home, I put together a comprehensive produce storage guide with tips for everything from leafy greens to root vegetables.
Best Parsnip Recipes
I hope the following collection of parsnip recipes will inspire you to use this delicious root vegetable in a variety of ways.
They’re a very versatile root vegetable that can be treated the same way you would a potato or carrot. They can be air fried, roasted, boiled or mashed.
They make a wonderful side dish, they’re a delicious addition to soups and stews, and they’re even great used in muffins and cakes!
Parsnip Soup Recipe
Parsnip Shoestring Fries – Evergreen Kitchen
Oven Roasted Spatchcock Chicken
Creamy Parsnip Puree Recipe
Carrot and Parsnip Soup (Roasted and Mildly Spicy) – Knife and Soul
Roasted Root Vegetables Recipe
Parsnip Gratin with Gruyere and Thyme
Autumn Vegetable Soup
Cheesy Parsnip Pasta
Roasted Parsnips
Parsnip and Apple Soup
Pan-Fried Carrot and Parsnip Recipe – Noshing With the Nolands
Healthy Shepherd’s Pie | The Modern Proper
Roasted Parsnip and Potato Soup
Instant Pot Irish Beef Stew
Roasted Parsnip Salad
Air Fryer Parsnips
Parsnip and Pear Soup
Roasted Carrots and Parsnips
Hearty Root Vegetable Soup
Lemon, Poppy Seed and Parsnip Muffins
Parsnip Loaf Cake
