Celery Salad With Herbs

Name: Celery Salad With Herbs
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 stalks of celery, chopped; 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped; 1/4 cup red onion, finely sliced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Balanced Kitchen

I love preparing celery salad with herbs, especially during warm days when I crave something refreshing. The crisp texture of celery combined with vibrant herbs creates a delightful mix that is both nutritious and satisfying. I often serve this salad as a light lunch or a side dish at gatherings. It feels great to use fresh ingredients straight from the market, and the burst of flavors always impresses my guests, making it a go-to recipe in my kitchen.

Created by

Daphne Collins

Last updated on 2026-02-01T17:17:36.792Z

Upon experimenting with this celery salad, I discovered that adding a mix of herbs elevates the whole dish. The freshness of parsley, dill, and mint provides an incredible contrast to the crunchy celery, and a light vinaigrette ties everything together seamlessly. I remember the first time I served this at a picnic; everyone raved about it!

The secret to making it truly refreshing lies in the way I prepare the vegetables. I dice the celery into bite-sized chunks and let it sit with a sprinkle of salt for a few minutes to draw out excess moisture. This enhances the crunchiness and intensifies the flavor, making every bite a treat!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Crispy texture of fresh celery combined with aromatic herbs
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy days
A light and refreshing side that pairs well with any meal

The Role of Fresh Herbs

Fresh herbs are essential to this celery salad, adding more than just flavor; they bring a brightness that elevates the dish. Parsley, dill, and mint each offer unique aromatic qualities. Parsley balances the earthiness of the celery, dill adds a slightly tangy taste, while mint introduces a refreshing element. Choosing vibrant, crisp herbs ensures your salad is not only flavorful but visually appealing as well. When chopping herbs, aim for a fine mince to release their essential oils, which maximizes their fragrance and taste in the salad.

While fresh herbs are ideal, dried versions can be used in a pinch. If substituting, opt for one-third the amount as dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor. However, keep in mind the texture will change, resulting in a less vibrant salad overall. If you're unsure about quantities, start with less dried herb and adjust to your taste preferences after mixing the salad.

Perfecting Your Dressing

The dressing for this salad plays a pivotal role in tying the flavors together. A simple mix of olive oil and lemon juice not only enhances the ingredients' natural tastes but also adds a delightful tanginess. When whisking, gradually pour the olive oil into the lemon juice to create an emulsion that gives the dressing a silky texture. This step is crucial for achieving a glossy finish that coats the vegetables beautifully. If you prefer a creamier dressing, consider adding a dollop of Greek yogurt or a splash of vinegar for depth.

Taste the dressing before adding it to the salad; a pinch of salt or a squeeze of lemon can make a world of difference. Remember to mix the dressing separately to prevent the salad from becoming soggy. If you're preparing the salad ahead of time, keep the dressing in a jar in the refrigerator until serving. This will maintain the crispness of the celery and herbs until you're ready to enjoy the salad.

Ingredients

To make this delicious celery salad, gather the following fresh ingredients:

Ingredients

4 stalks of celery, chopped
1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
1/4 cup red onion, finely sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

These fresh ingredients come together for a delicious and vibrant salad.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare the salad:

Prepare the Vegetables

Chop the celery into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large bowl. Add the chopped parsley, dill, mint, and red onion.

Make the Dressing

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

Combine and Serve

Pour the dressing over the chopped vegetables and toss gently to coat everything evenly. Serve immediately.

Enjoy your refreshing celery salad with herbs!

Pro Tips

For added crunch, consider adding some sliced almonds or walnuts. This also gives the salad a nice nutritional boost.

Serving Suggestions

This celery salad is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of main dishes. Serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish for a light lunch, or as a refreshing side with a heavier meal, such as roasted meats or pasta. It also makes a lovely accompaniment to a summer barbecue, providing a cooling contrast to rich flavors. For a delightful twist, try sprinkling some crumbled feta or toasted nuts over the top for added texture and taste.

If you wish to elevate this salad even further, consider adding seasonal fruits like apples or pears. Their sweetness complements the celery's crunch and adds another layer of flavor. For a Mediterranean flair, toss in some olives or capers for a saltiness that pairs beautifully with the herbs. Experimenting with flavors can turn this simple salad into a signature dish.

Storage Tips

Celery salad is best enjoyed fresh; however, if you have leftovers, proper storage is key to maintaining its flavor and texture. Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. It's important to keep the dressing separate until you're ready to serve. This will prevent the celery and herbs from wilting and losing their crispness. If you anticipate making this salad in advance, prepare everything but the dressing to ensure maximum freshness later.

For longer storage, consider freezing the individual components, such as chopped celery or diced herbs, but keep in mind that the texture will change upon thawing. These frozen ingredients can be used later in soups or stews, although they won’t maintain the crunch that is so delightful in the fresh salad. The key takeaway is to enjoy this salad at its freshest for the best experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a few hours in advance. Just dress it right before serving for maximum freshness.

→ What other herbs can I use?

Feel free to experiment with basil or cilantro for a different flavor profile.

→ How long will the salad last in the fridge?

It's best consumed within 2 days, but the flavors will still be good for up to 3 days.

→ Is this salad suitable for vegans?

Absolutely! All ingredients are plant-based, making it a perfect vegan dish.