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; 1 lemon, juiced; 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil; Salt to taste; Black pepper to taste; Optional: fresh herbs (parsley or dill), chopped

Highlighted under: Mindful Meal Ideas

I absolutely love making Celery Salad with Lemon and Olive Oil. The crisp texture of the celery combined with the bright acidity of lemon creates a refreshing dish that's perfect for any meal. Every bite bursts with flavor, and the simplicity of the ingredients allows for a quick prep time, making it a go-to side dish for gatherings or a light lunch. Plus, it's a great way to enjoy the health benefits of celery while keeping things deliciously straightforward.

Created by

Nora Ellis

Last updated on 2026-01-24T09:28:06.421Z

When I first experimented with this salad, I didn't realize how well the sharpness of the lemon would balance the freshness of the celery. Using high-quality olive oil truly enhances the dish, adding a beautiful depth of flavor without overpowering the simplicity. Making it only took me about 10 minutes!

I've found that letting it sit for a few minutes before serving allows the flavors to meld together harmoniously. Feel free to add a sprinkle of black pepper or some fresh herbs if you're looking for an extra kick. It’s versatile and can easily be adapted to suit your taste!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Crisp and refreshing, perfect for warm days
Bright lemon flavor complements the natural taste of celery
Quick and easy to prepare, ideal for busy schedules

The Role of Celery

Celery is the star of this dish, bringing its signature crunch and fresh flavor. Rich in vitamins and low in calories, celery adds not only texture but also nutritional benefits. When selecting celery, look for stalks that are firm and crisp with vibrant green leaves. Avoid any wilted or discolored stalks, which indicate aging. The freshness of the celery significantly impacts the overall taste of the salad, so it's worthwhile to choose high-quality ingredients.

As you prepare the celery, slice it into thin, uniform pieces. This ensures that the celery is tender yet still maintains its crunch. A sharp knife will make clean cuts and prevent bruising. Thin slices also increase the surface area for the dressing, allowing every piece to be fully coated and flavorful. If you prefer a more intense flavor, consider marinating the celery longer than the suggested 5 minutes.

Crafting the Perfect Dressing

The dressing plays a crucial role in bringing the salad to life. Combining lemon juice and extra-virgin olive oil creates a bright, zesty flavor that complements the celery beautifully. The acidity of the lemon juice helps to balance the natural earthiness of the celery, while the olive oil adds a luscious mouthfeel. If you want to experiment, try substituting a flavored oil, like lemon or herb-infused oil, which can enhance the overall taste.

When mixing the dressing, whisk until the ingredients are thoroughly combined and slightly emulsified. You’ll know it’s ready when it appears glossy and well-blended. If you feel adventurous, you can add a hint of Dijon mustard or a pinch of sugar for extra complexity, balancing the acidity and enhancing the overall flavor profile. Just be sure to adjust the salt accordingly.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a delightful salad:

Ingredients

4 stalks of celery, thinly sliced
1 lemon, juiced
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Optional: fresh herbs (parsley or dill), chopped

Combine everything in a bowl and enjoy!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your salad:

Prepare the Celery

Thinly slice the celery stalks and place them in a mixing bowl.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Mix Together

Pour the dressing over the sliced celery and toss gently until evenly coated.

Let it Sit

Allow the salad to sit for about 5 minutes to marinate before serving, enhancing the flavor.

Serve chilled or at room temperature!

Pro Tips

For added crunch, consider mixing in some diced apples or nuts like walnuts or almonds. This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats and can be prepared ahead of time for meal prep. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve for the best texture.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

This Celery Salad is best served fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Over time, the celery may lose its crispness, so it's best enjoyed soon after preparation. To revive the salad, a gentle toss with a splash more of lemon juice and olive oil can help brighten the flavors again.

For serving, consider pairing this salad with grilled meats or seafood. The refreshing notes of the salad can cut through rich flavors, making it a fantastic side. Alternatively, serve it on a bed of greens, like arugula or spinach, for a heartier option. You can also add protein, such as chickpeas or grilled chicken, to transform it into a light main dish.

Variations and Add-ins

While this recipe is wonderfully simple, feel free to customize the salad to suit your tastes or utilize what you have on hand. You can add other crunchy vegetables like sliced radishes or cucumbers for additional texture. Nuts, like toasted almonds or walnuts, can provide a delightful crunch and healthy fats. Just be sure to toast them lightly to enhance their flavor before adding them to the salad.

If you like a touch of sweetness, consider adding sliced apples or pears. Their sweetness beautifully balances the zesty dressing. Fresh herbs, such as dill or parsley, not only add flavor but also a pop of color. For a more decadent twist, a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese or shaved Parmesan can elevate the salad and make it more satisfying.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other dressings for this salad?

Absolutely! You can experiment with vinaigrette or even add some yogurt for a creamy variation.

→ How long can I store this salad?

It is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

→ Is this salad suitable for a vegetarian diet?

Yes, this salad is completely vegetarian and can also be made vegan by ensuring all ingredients are plant-based.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to incorporate bell peppers, cucumbers, or even carrots for a pop of color and flavor.