Why You’ll Love this Celery Salad Recipe
Whether you’re looking for a revitalizing side dish or a light meal, you’ll love this celery salad recipe. It’s crisp, invigorating, and so easy to make.
I adore how the flavors meld together, especially after chilling in the fridge for a bit. The crunch of fresh celery paired with the tangy feta and zesty dressing creates a delightful contrast that keeps me coming back for more.
Plus, it’s packed with nutrients, making it a guilt-free choice. Whether I serve it at a gathering or enjoy it solo, this salad never fails to impress and satisfy my cravings.
Ingredients of Celery Salad
When it comes to whipping up a rejuvenating and delightful salad, this celery salad recipe is a must-try. It’s the kind of dish that feels light yet satisfying, perfect for those sunny days or even as a side at your next dinner gathering.
The combination of crunchy celery, the creamy tang of feta, and zippy green onions creates a salad that’s not just a side dish, but a star player on your table. And let’s be real, who doesn’t love a dish that practically makes itself?
Here’s what you’ll need to gather for this delicious celery salad:
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
- 1/4 cup feta, crumbled
- 3/4 teaspoon seasoned garlic powder (I use Garlic Garni)
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1 bunch celery, thinly sliced on the diagonal
- 5 green onions, sliced on the diagonal
- 1/4 cup fresh flat-leaf parsley, roughly chopped
Now, let’s chat about these ingredients for a moment. If you’re thinking about switching up the feta for something else, like goat cheese, go for it! Just remember that it’ll change the flavor a bit, but in a good way.
Also, if you don’t have white wine vinegar, apple cider vinegar works just as well in a pinch—though I find the white wine version brings a nice brightness to the dish.
And don’t skimp on the fresh herbs; they really elevate the flavor profile. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you for that extra pop of rejuvenation.
How to Make Celery Salad
Now, on to the seasoning! Add 3/4 teaspoon of seasoned garlic powder (I use Garlic Garni because it’s just that good), along with 3/4 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper.
If you’re feeling adventurous, give it a little taste test. Adjust the seasoning to your liking, because who wants a bland salad, right?
Once you’ve got that all mixed together, it’s time to bring in the stars of the show: the veggies. Slice up 1 bunch of celery on the diagonal—those cute angles really do make a difference—and toss that into the bowl, along with 5 sliced green onions and 1/4 cup of roughly chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley.
Now, here’s where the magic happens. Grab a spatula or even your clean hands (I won’t judge) and gently toss everything together. You want to guarantee each piece of celery is coated in that lovely dressing while getting all those flavors mingling.
And pro tip: let it sit in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving. It gives the flavors a chance to really come together, and trust me, your taste buds will appreciate that little patience.
Celery Salad Substitutions & Variations
If you’re looking to shake things up with your celery salad, there are plenty of substitutions and variations to explore.
Swap feta for goat cheese or even diced avocado for a creamier texture. Instead of green onions, try red onion for a sharper bite. You can add nuts like walnuts or almonds for crunch, or toss in some diced apples for sweetness.
If you want a bit of heat, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes works wonders. Feel free to experiment with herbs, too; fresh dill or cilantro can bring a whole new flavor profile to your salad!
What to Serve with Celery Salad
While I enjoy celery salad on its own, it pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes that can elevate your meal.
For a light lunch, I often serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish, which complements the fresh flavors. It also goes wonderfully with a hearty soup, adding an invigorating crunch.
If I’m hosting a gathering, I place it next to a cheese platter or charcuterie board, where its crispness balances the richness of the cheeses and meats.
Finally, consider pairing it with a grain bowl for a nutritious, satisfying dinner. Trust me, these combinations will delight your taste buds!
Additional Tips & Notes
To enhance your celery salad experience, consider chilling it for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
I also like to add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving for an extra zing. If you prefer a crunchier texture, try adding some chopped nuts or seeds, like walnuts or sunflower seeds.
Experimenting with different herbs can also elevate the dish; fresh dill or mint can add a unique twist.
Finally, if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container but consume them within a day for the best taste and texture. Enjoy!