It's not necessary to parboil parsnips prior to baking or roasting. However, the parboiling process softens the parsnips some so they're less chewy.u003cbr/u003eu003cbr/u003eu003cstrongu003eu003ca href=u0022https://www.foodfanatic.com/2013/10/how-to-parboil/u0022 target=u0022_blanku0022 rel=u0022noreferrer noopeneru0022u003eParboilingu003c/au003eu003c/strongu003e only takes a few minutes, and it's a good way to jump-start the cooking process for root vegetables that may take long time to cook otherwise.u003cbr/u003eu003cbr/u003eIn this case, it's optional but can improve the texture of the parsnips. It's all about preference.