Celery Salad With Lemon And Olive Oil

Name: Celery Salad With Lemon And Olive Oil
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 stalks of celery, thinly sliced; 2 tablespoons of olive oil; Juice of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper, to taste; Optional: fresh herbs like parsley or dill

Highlighted under: Wholesome Food Stories

I absolutely love making this Celery Salad with Lemon and Olive Oil. The crispness of fresh celery combined with zesty lemon juice and rich olive oil creates a symphony of flavors that is invigorating and refreshing. It's the perfect side dish for any meal or a light, healthy snack on its own. Every bite is a crunch of texture, and I adore the vibrant green color it adds to my plate. Plus, it’s incredibly simple to prepare, making it one of my go-to recipes for busy weeknights.

Created by

Keira Thompson

Last updated on 2026-01-24T09:37:10.184Z

When I first experimented with this salad, I was surprised by how easily it became a staple in my kitchen. The combination of lemon and olive oil not only enhanced the natural flavors of the celery, but it also made a nutritious dish that was ready in minutes. I discovered that adding a sprinkle of sea salt elevates the taste even more, balancing the acidity of the lemon perfectly.

Over time, I've tried this salad with various add-ins, like cherry tomatoes or chopped herbs, which only enhance its freshness. The simplicity of this dish proves that you don’t need elaborate methods or ingredients to create something delicious. It’s an ideal side for grilled meats or a light lunch all on its own.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Crisp and refreshing celery with a citrusy kick
Healthy fats from olive oil make it a nutritious choice
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy days

The Role of Celery

Celery serves as the star of this salad not just for its crunch but also for its subtle flavor that enhances the dish. The crisp texture is crucial; I recommend selecting fresh, firm stalks with vibrant green color, as these provide the best bite. Avoid any that feel limp or have brown spots, indicating age. The freshness of the celery is key to elevating the overall enjoyment of your salad.

Moreover, the natural water content in celery ensures this salad remains refreshing, especially in warm weather. When sliced thinly, it allows the lemon and olive oil dressing to penetrate each piece, amplifying the flavor profile. If you prefer a milder taste, you can soak the celery in cold water for about 20 minutes before slicing, which will also enhance its crunch.

Perfecting the Dressing

The dressing in this salad is incredibly simple yet essential. The quality of your olive oil greatly affects the flavor; use a high-quality extra virgin olive oil for a rich, fruity taste. It’s worth splurging a little here, as the oil acts as a base that enriches the entire dish. When mixing the olive oil and lemon juice, whisk vigorously until the mixture is glossy and emulsified. This small step helps ensure even distribution when dressing the salad later.

If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing. The heat pairs surprisingly well with the zesty lemon, creating a complex flavor experience every time you bite into the salad. Remember, the dressing can be made ahead of time; just store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week while retaining its vibrant flavor.

Serving and Variations

This celery salad is versatile and can be served in various ways. It pairs nicely with grilled meats, making it an excellent choice for summer barbecues. For a heartier dish, consider adding roasted chickpeas or avocado cubes for additional protein and creaminess. I sometimes throw in some diced apple or orange segments for an unexpected sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the lemon's acidity.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. However, be aware that the dressing can soften the celery over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh. You can also make a larger batch of dressing to keep on hand for other salads; this lemony vinaigrette is fantastic on mixed greens or grain salads, reminding you to explore its versatility!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this vibrant salad:

Ingredients

4 stalks of celery, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons of olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional: fresh herbs like parsley or dill

Once you have all the ingredients, you’re ready to mix up this delightful salad!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Celery Salad:

Prepare the Ingredients

Thinly slice the celery stalks and place them in a mixing bowl. If you're using fresh herbs, chop them finely and add them to the bowl.

Dress the Salad

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and lemon juice. Pour this mixture over the sliced celery and toss well to ensure everything is evenly coated.

Season and Serve

Add salt and pepper to taste. Toss the salad again before serving it immediately or chill it in the refrigerator for a refreshing treat.

Your Celery Salad with Lemon and Olive Oil is now ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize the salad with your favorite seeds or nuts for added crunch.

Storage Tips

To prepare this salad ahead of time, keep the dressing separate until just before serving. This prevents the celery from becoming wilted and losing its crunch. Store the sliced celery in a bowl covered with a damp paper towel in the fridge to maintain freshness. It’s best to consume the salad within 24 hours, but if prepared with the dressing added, enjoy it the same day to experience the perfect crunch.

If you want to batch prepare celery for other recipes, consider freezing it. Wash, chop, and blanch the celery for about three minutes, then transfer it to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Drain and store it in an airtight container. While that may slightly alter the texture, it will still work well in cooked dishes or soups.

Ingredient Swaps

For those seeking a low-sodium alternative, you can replace traditional salt with a dash of celery salt to maintain a basil-like taste without added salt. If you’re avoiding oil altogether, try using a light vinaigrette or even a splash of apple cider vinegar mixed with water as a lighter dressing alternative, keeping the refreshing qualities intact.

Herbs are another great area for experimentation. While parsley and dill are traditional, thyme or mint can add a surprising twist. Mint, in particular, brings a refreshing layer to the salad, perfect for summer. Just remember to chop your herbs finely to distribute their flavors evenly throughout the dish.

Balancing Flavors

Balancing the flavors in this salad is crucial for creating that refreshing bite. If you find the dressing too acidic, add a touch of honey or maple syrup to mellow the flavor while enhancing sweetness. Just a teaspoon should suffice to achieve a perfect balance. Adjusting the acidity can cater to personal preferences, especially if serving guests with varied tastes.

Also, consider incorporating a nut or seed component for added texture and nutrition. Toasted sunflower seeds or slivered almonds can be sprinkled on top just before serving. Not only do they provide healthy fats, but they also add a satisfying crunch that beautifully complements the celery's texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare this salad in advance?

Yes, you can make the salad a few hours ahead of serving. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

You can add sliced cucumbers, bell peppers, or even some shredded carrots for more color and nutrition.

→ Is this salad suitable for a vegan diet?

Absolutely! All the ingredients are plant-based, making it perfect for vegans.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftover salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, though it is best enjoyed fresh.