Celery Salad With Olive Oil

Name: Celery Salad With Olive Oil
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 large stalks of celery, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil; 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Highlighted under: Light & Flavorful

I love making this Celery Salad With Olive Oil when I want something light yet satisfying. The crunch of the fresh celery combined with the rich, fruity flavor of high-quality olive oil creates a refreshing dish that's perfect for any occasion. I enjoy experimenting with different add-ins like nuts or seeds, enhancing both flavor and texture. This salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats or can be enjoyed on its own as a midday snack. It's quick, simple, and a fantastic way to incorporate more greens into my diet.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-02T02:01:35.917Z

When I first discovered this Celery Salad, I was amazed at how something so simple could be so flavorful. I experimented with various olive oils until I found a robust, peppery variety that balanced perfectly with the crispness of the celery. The key is to ensure everything is fresh and chopped uniformly to maximize the crunch and flavor in every bite.

One time, I added a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving, and it elevated the salad to a whole new level of brightness. This little tip ensures your salad tastes incredibly fresh and vibrant, making it a staple in my kitchen.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Crisp texture that is refreshing and satisfying
Rich flavors from high-quality olive oil
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy days
Versatile and customizable with various add-ins

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

For this Celery Salad With Olive Oil, the freshness of the celery is paramount. Choosing crisp, vibrant stalks will enhance the salad's texture and overall flavor. Look for celery that is firm to the touch and has a bright green color, as these are indicators of freshness. If the celery has any browning or wilting, it may have lost some of its crunch and flavor. Fresh ingredients not only boost taste but also provide essential nutrients that you want in a light salad.

Pairing the celery with high-quality extra virgin olive oil is also crucial for achieving the best flavor profile. The oil should have a fruity and slightly peppery taste, which complements the natural crunch of the celery. I recommend selecting an olive oil that you would also enjoy dipping bread into, as its flavor will dominate the salad. This attention to ingredient quality elevates the dish from simple to exceptional.

Customizing Your Salad

One of the appealing aspects of this salad is its versatility. You can easily customize it by adding ingredients like toasted nuts, seeds, or even diced apples for a sweet touch. My favorite additions include shelled sunflower seeds or slivered almonds, which add a delightful crunch and boost the healthy fats in the dish. Just be cautious with the salt, as these additions can also bring their own flavors and saltiness.

Herbs also play a significant role in enhancing flavor. While fresh parsley is called for in the recipe, don't hesitate to experiment with other herbs like dill or mint, which can provide a refreshing twist. You can also incorporate a sprinkle of feta cheese for a creamier texture. Just remember to balance these bold flavors with the olive oil dressing, adjusting the acidity and seasoning as needed for a well-rounded taste.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Celery Salad With Olive Oil

Salad Ingredients

4 large stalks of celery, thinly sliced
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Feel free to add any additional ingredients you enjoy!

Instructions

Steps to Prepare Celery Salad

Prepare the Celery

Start by washing the celery stalks thoroughly. Slice them thinly on a diagonal to maximize surface area.

Mix the Dressing

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

Combine Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced celery and dressing. Toss gently to ensure all the celery is coated.

Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

This salad is best enjoyed fresh!

Pro Tips

For an extra crunch, consider adding toasted nuts like walnuts or almonds. They complement the celery beautifully.

Make-Ahead Tips

This salad is wonderful for meal prep if you're looking to save time during the week. You can prepare the dressing a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a good shake before using to revive its emulsion. Slice the celery only when ready to serve to keep it crisp; however, if you do slice ahead, place it in a bowl of cold water to maintain its crunchiness.

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge, but be aware that the celery will lose its texture over time. It's best eaten within a day or two for optimal freshness. If you're concerned about the salad getting soggy, store the dressing separately and mix it in just before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This Celery Salad With Olive Oil is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes. It complements grilled chicken or fish beautifully, providing a refreshing contrast alongside rich proteins. Alternatively, you can serve it as a bright side to hearty mains like steak or roasted vegetables to balance out flavors on your plate.

For a light lunch, consider serving it atop a bed of greens or alongside whole grain crackers for added texture and nutrition. You can also layer it in a sandwich or wrap for a satisfying, crunchy element. The possibilities are endless, and with just a few simple changes, you can turn it into a completely different dish each time.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the celery and dressing separately a few hours in advance.

→ What olive oil works best?

A high-quality extra virgin olive oil with a robust flavor will enhance the salad significantly.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to toss in bell peppers or cucumbers for added flavor and crunch.

→ Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

While it's best fresh, you can prepare the ingredients and store them separately in the fridge for easy assembly.