Celery Salad With Lemon Zest

Name: Celery Salad With Lemon Zest
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups of thinly sliced celery; 1/4 cup of olive oil; Juice of 1 lemon; 1 tablespoon of honey; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley; 1/4 cup of toasted nuts (optional)

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I love making this Celery Salad with Lemon Zest during the summer months when fresh veggies are plentiful. The crunch of the celery, combined with a zesty lemon dressing, creates a refreshing dish that’s perfect as a side or a light lunch. The vibrant flavors wake up your palate, and it’s so simple to prepare! I often add a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an extra kick, making it a staple in my kitchen. This salad reminds me of warm days and family gatherings, bringing a burst of freshness to the table.

Created by

Ffion Llewellyn

Last updated on 2026-02-01T14:57:35.898Z

I have experimented with various dressings for this salad, but I always come back to the simple and tangy lemon dressing. It enhances the natural flavor of the celery without overpowering it. A little bit of olive oil, fresh lemon juice, and a touch of honey balance the acidity beautifully. I also like to incorporate toasted nuts for added texture and flavor, making it even more satisfying.

What I find most enjoyable is how versatile this salad can be. You can easily add ingredients like apples or nuts for texture or even a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat. Once you've tried it, you'll understand why this salad has become one of my go-to recipes for gatherings!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Bright and zesty flavor that invigorates your meal
Crunchy texture from fresh celery and nuts
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy days
Versatile enough to customize with your favorite ingredients

Understanding Celery's Role

Celery is the star of this salad, providing a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the zesty lemon dressing. Its high water content adds hydration, making it an ideal choice for hot summer days. Be sure to select firm, crisp celery stalks for the best texture. If celery is looking a bit limp, you can revive it by placing it in ice water for about 30 minutes before slicing.

In this recipe, the freshness of celery not only stands out in flavor but also in presentation. The vibrant green color of thinly sliced celery enhances the visual appeal of the dish. For an added twist, consider using a combination of green and red celery if available, as it introduces a broader spectrum of flavors while staying true to the delightful crunch.

Perfecting the Lemon Dressing

The lemon dressing plays a crucial role in elevating the overall flavor of the salad. The combination of olive oil, lemon juice, and honey creates a balance of acidity and sweetness. I recommend using fresh lemon juice for the brightest flavor; pre-packaged lemon juice lacks the vibrant zing that freshly squeezed provides. A good rule of thumb is that one medium lemon yields about two tablespoons of juice.

Whisk the dressing until it is well blended and slightly glossy, which usually takes about 30 seconds. If you’d like to experiment, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for a hint of spice. This dressing can also be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a good shake before using as it may separate over time.

Ingredients

Celery Salad Ingredients

4 cups of thinly sliced celery
1/4 cup of olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
1 tablespoon of honey
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
1/4 cup of toasted nuts (optional)

Preparation Steps

Prepare the Dressing

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

Combine the Salad

In a large bowl, add the sliced celery, chopped parsley, and toasted nuts if using. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.

Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve chilled or at room temperature for the best flavor.

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding crumbled feta cheese or diced apples for a touch of sweetness. This salad can be made ahead of time
just wait to add the dressing until right before serving to keep the celery crisp.

Serving Suggestions

This Celery Salad with Lemon Zest shines as a light lunch or a refreshing side dish at barbecues and picnics. To make it more filling, consider adding grilled chicken or chickpeas for protein. Serve it on a bed of mixed greens for an inviting presentation – a colorful contrast that enhances both taste and texture.

For an elegant touch, you can plate the salad in small mason jars or clear cups, perfect for serving at gatherings. Not only does it make for an eye-catching presentation, but it also allows guests to enjoy individual portions without the mess. To keep it fresh, layer the dressing at the bottom and the celery on top until ready to serve.

Storage Tips

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. After this time, the celery may start to lose its crunch. If you want to prepare it in advance for an event, consider keeping the dressing separate until just before serving to maintain the crisp texture of the vegetables.

If desired, feel free to make the dressing ahead of time. Store it in a sealed jar in the fridge, where it can stay fresh for a week. Just remember to give it a good shake before using, as the oil and lemon juice will separate. This way, you can swiftly whip up the salad at a moment's notice!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare this salad in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the celery and dressing ahead of time. Just combine them right before serving to maintain the crunch.

→ What can I substitute for honey?

Maple syrup or agave nectar works well as a substitute for honey for a vegan option.

→ Can I add other vegetables to this salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, cucumbers, or even shredded carrots for extra color and nutrition.

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, this salad is gluten-free, making it a suitable option for those with gluten sensitivities.