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, chopped; 2 tablespoons of high-quality extra virgin olive oil; Juice of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Highlighted under: Smart Healthy Choices

I absolutely love the fresh, crisp taste of celery in this salad. It’s incredibly easy to prepare and requires minimal ingredients, making it perfect for a quick side dish or a light lunch. The key is using high-quality olive oil, which adds a wonderful depth of flavor while complementing the celery's natural crunch. I've added a few of my favorite seasonings to enhance the taste without overwhelming it, ensuring that you get the best out of this refreshing dish. It’s a salad that never fails to impress my friends and family!

Created by

Isla Turner

Last updated on 2026-02-02T01:53:35.558Z

When I first experimented with celery salads, I was amazed at how versatile this humble vegetable can be. The secret lies in using the best quality olive oil, which adds a rich flavor and perfectly balances the earthy taste of celery. I remember creating this salad on a hot summer day, using fresh ingredients from my garden. It was refreshing and satisfying without being heavy, making it the ideal summer dish.

As I refined my technique, I learned to pair the celery with a sprinkle of salt and a splash of lemon juice to enhance its natural crispness. A little bit of fresh parsley also brightens the dish, turning it into a vibrant feast for the eyes. Sharing this salad with my friends at a picnic made me realize that simple can indeed be spectacular.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Crisp texture that adds a refreshing crunch
High-quality olive oil elevates the flavor
Quick and easy preparation with minimal ingredients

Celery: The Unsung Hero

Celery often plays a supporting role in dishes, yet in this salad, it steals the spotlight. The crisp texture and refreshing taste make it the perfect base. When selecting your celery, opt for the freshest stalks you can find—look for vibrant green color and firm stalks. This ensures that your salad will have the crunch and flavor that are vital to this recipe. If you're in a pinch, you can also use celery hearts for a lighter flavor, but they might lack a bit of texture.

Each bite of celery should provide a satisfying crunch, so avoid over-chopping. Aim for bite-sized pieces that maintain their integrity in the salad. Keeping some of the celery leaves can add an extra layer of flavor and visual appeal. Just make sure to wash them thoroughly, as they can often hold onto dirt.

The Importance of Quality Olive Oil

In this salad, the choice of olive oil is crucial. A high-quality extra virgin variety will not only enhance the flavor but also provide a silky texture. Look for olive oils that are cold-pressed and come from reputable sources—this ensures you’re getting the richest flavor. If you enjoy a hint of spice, consider using an infused olive oil, such as lemon or garlic, to elevate the dish even further.

I recommend tasting the olive oil before adding it to the salad. It should have a robust flavor that complements the freshness of the celery. If you ever find your olive oil lacking in flavor, don't hesitate to switch brands or try a different variety until you find one that works beautifully in this salad.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This celery salad is versatile and can serve as a base for many toppings. Consider adding shredded carrots or thin slices of apple for a hint of sweetness and an additional crunch. You could also fold in crumbled feta or goat cheese for a creamy contrast. If you're looking for a protein boost, slivered almonds or chopped walnuts can provide delightful texture and richness while complementing the salad's flavors perfectly.

For those preparing this dish in advance, you can assemble the salad without the dressing and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, simply drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to combine. This approach keeps the celery crisp and prevents it from becoming soggy.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

4 large stalks of celery, chopped
2 tablespoons of high-quality extra virgin olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Mix all the ingredients in a large bowl and toss until well combined. Enjoy your refreshing celery salad!

Instructions

Steps

Prepare the Celery

Chop the celery stalks into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large mixing bowl.

Dress the Salad

Drizzle the olive oil and lemon juice over the chopped celery. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Toss to Combine

Gently toss the salad until all the celery pieces are well coated with the dressing.

Serve

Sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired, and serve immediately for the freshest taste.

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored in the fridge for a short while if needed.

Pro Tips

For a little extra kick, try adding some chopped red onion or radishes for added flavor and texture.

Storing and Making Ahead

If you have leftovers, store the celery salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, be mindful that the celery may lose its crispness over time. If you prefer, keep the dressing separate and add it just before serving to maintain the salad’s freshness. This salad is best enjoyed immediately for the optimum flavor and texture.

For meal prepping, chop the celery ahead of time and store it in water in the fridge to keep it hydrated and crunchy. Change the water daily to ensure it stays fresh, making it convenient for quick assembly later.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your dressing feels too acidic, this can often be balanced by adding a touch more olive oil. Make sure to whisk the mixture thoroughly to achieve a uniform consistency. A drizzle of honey can also help mellow the tanginess without overpowering the salad’s freshness, especially if using a particularly tart lemon.

In case you over-season the salad, don’t fret! Adding a bit more chopped celery or other ingredients can help dilute the saltiness. Taste as you go, and adjust to your preference for the best outcome in flavor.

Scaling the Recipe

This celery salad is easily scalable, making it perfect for larger gatherings. Simply multiply the ingredients according to the number of servings you need. If making a large batch, toss the dressing in gradually, as the absorption will differ based on the quantity. Doing this ensures that each piece of celery is well-coated without becoming overly soggy from too much liquid.

When scaling up, consider mixing in additional vegetables like radishes or bell peppers to enhance flavor and color, making your salad not only delicious but visually appealing as well.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other oils instead of olive oil?

Yes, you can use other oils, such as avocado or sunflower oil, but olive oil provides the best flavor.

→ How long will this salad last in the fridge?

This salad is best eaten fresh, but it can be stored in the fridge for up to 1 day.

→ Can I add other vegetables to this salad?

Definitely! You can include cucumbers, bell peppers, or even some cherry tomatoes for added flavor and color.

→ Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes, as long as you plan to eat it within a day, it's a great option for meal prep!