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 medium lemon, juiced; 3 tablespoons olive oil; Salt, to taste; Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

Highlighted under: Nutritious Favorites

I absolutely love preparing this Celery Salad with Lemon and Olive Oil for a refreshing side dish. The crispness of the celery combined with the bright acidity of lemon creates a delightful balance that invigorates any meal. It’s a breeze to whip up and is a fantastic way to incorporate healthy greens into my diet. Whenever I serve this salad, I find that it always garners compliments for its freshness, and it pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or seafood. It's truly a go-to recipe that I can rely on!

Created by

Margaret Hill

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:25:09.903Z

When I first tried this salad, I was surprised at how something so simple could be so delicious! The key is to use fresh, crunchy celery and a high-quality olive oil which elevates the entire dish. After experimenting with the proportions of lemon juice and oil, I found that a simple 2:1 ratio created the perfect dressing that highlights the celery's natural flavor without overpowering it.

One tip I've learned is to slice the celery at an angle. This not only makes the salad visually appealing but also increases the surface area that absorbs the dressing. I love adding some freshly cracked pepper on top just before serving for an extra kick!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Crisp and refreshing flavor that awakens your palate
Quick to prepare, perfect for last-minute gatherings
Versatile side dish that complements any meal

The Role of Celery

Celery is the star of this salad, bringing a refreshing crunch that enhances the overall texture. The key is to select fresh, firm stalks that are vibrant in color. When cutting, aim for thin slices—about 1/8 inch thick—to yield a tender yet crisp bite. If you come across a stalk that is slightly limp, it might not provide the desired crunch, so it's best to skip it or use it in another dish, like a stir-fry.

The natural flavor of celery is subtly sweet and earthy, which pairs perfectly with the brightness of lemon. This balance is crucial in creating a salad that feels lively rather than heavy. To make the most of the celery, consider chilling it prior to slicing. About 30 minutes in the refrigerator will intensify its crunch and make each bite even more refreshing.

Crafting the Perfect Dressing

The dressing is equally important in this recipe, as it brings everything together. Using high-quality olive oil makes a noticeable difference; look for extra virgin olive oil with a fruity and peppery profile for added complexity. When mixing, whisk vigorously until emulsified, which helps the dressing cling to the celery without pooling at the bottom. Aim for a glossy finish to ensure all ingredients have been well incorporated.

For those who prefer a twist, experiment with the acidity. A splash of white wine vinegar can add depth, while a pinch of honey might help balance the acidity for those who want a sweeter note. Remember to adjust salt accordingly; too much can overpower the subtle flavors of the celery and olive oil.

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

4 stalks of celery, thinly sliced
1 medium lemon, juiced
3 tablespoons olive oil
Salt, to taste
Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Celery

In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced celery. Make sure the pieces are evenly cut for optimal texture.

Mix the Dressing

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

Combine Salad and Dressing

Pour the dressing over the sliced celery and toss gently to coat all the pieces evenly.

Serve

Transfer the salad to a serving dish and enjoy immediately for the freshest flavor.

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, feel free to add chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill to the salad.

Serving Suggestions

This Celery Salad is incredibly versatile and pairs wonderfully with grilled meats—think chicken or fish. For a heartier meal, consider adding sliced avocado or toasted nuts for added protein and creaminess. If serving at a picnic or barbecue, this salad is a fantastic keep-cool option as it doesn't wilt like leaf-based salads.

If you're looking to upscale a simple dinner, plate the salad on a bed of greens or serve alongside a tangy sauce like tzatziki for dipping. The key is to keep the presentation inviting, which enhances the vibrant green of the celery against the bright dressing.

Make-Ahead Tips

One of the great benefits of this salad is that it can be prepared in advance. The celery holds up well in the refrigerator for a day when dressed. If you'd like to prepare it further in advance, consider storing the celery and dressing separately to maintain its crispiness. Simply combine them an hour before serving to let the flavors meld.

If you're short on time, cleaning and slicing the celery can be done a day ahead. Just remember to keep it in an airtight container with a bit of water to keep it fresh. This way, assembly becomes as easy as pouring the dressing and tossing it together at the last minute.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad in advance?

It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the dressing ahead of time. Just add it to the celery right before serving.

→ What can I serve this salad with?

This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or as a light side to any main course.

→ Can I add other ingredients?

Absolutely! You can include ingredients like diced apples, carrots, or even nuts for added crunch.

→ How do I store leftovers?

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. The celery may lose some crunch over time.