Crunchy Celery Salad With Lemon Dressing

Name: Crunchy Celery Salad With Lemon Dressing
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups of thinly sliced celery; 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 cup of chopped nuts (almonds or walnuts); 1/4 cup of feta cheese, crumbled; Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish; 1/4 cup of olive oil; 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice; 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Wholesome Kitchen Co.

I absolutely love how this Crunchy Celery Salad bursts with freshness and flavor! The combination of crisp celery, bright lemon dressing, and a mix of crunchy nuts creates a delightful texture that’s both satisfying and refreshing. Perfect as a light lunch or a side dish, this salad has transformed my meals and is an exciting way to incorporate more vegetables into my diet. With just a few simple ingredients and a quick prep time, I know you’ll want to make this salad a regular on your table.

Created by

Marianne Hughes

Last updated on 2026-01-22T10:19:14.400Z

When I first tried making this salad, I was amazed at how such a simple combination of ingredients could create an explosion of flavor. The lemon dressing not only balances out the crispness of the celery but also adds a zesty punch that makes every bite enjoyable. I remember thinking about how this would be the ideal side dish for my summer barbecues.

One tip that made a huge difference for me was letting the salad sit for a few minutes after tossing it with the dressing. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, making each bite even more refreshing. I guarantee this salad will be a hit at any gathering!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
The refreshing crunch from the celery adds an irresistible texture
Zesty lemon dressing brings a delightful brightness to each bite
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh ingredients in your Crunchy Celery Salad is key to achieving vibrant flavors and optimal texture. Whenever possible, choose celery that is firm and has a bright green hue. This indicates that it's fresh and retains its crunch. Stale or limp celery will not provide the necessary textural contrast that makes this salad so enjoyable. Likewise, opt for ripe cherry tomatoes; they should be plump with a glossy skin for the best burst of flavor when bitten into.

The nuts you select can make a substantial difference in flavor. While almonds and walnuts are excellent choices, you might also consider pistachios or pecans for a unique twist. Toasting the nuts briefly in a dry skillet for 3-5 minutes on medium heat can elevate their flavor profile, adding warmth and depth. Just keep an eye on them to avoid burning, as they can go from lightly toasted to scorched quickly!

Mastering the Dressing

The dressing is what elevates the Crunchy Celery Salad from ordinary to extraordinary. I usually recommend using freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor; it adds that zesty brightness you won't get from bottled varieties. When whisking the dressing, start with the lemon juice and Dijon mustard before slowly drizzling in the olive oil. This emulsifying technique prevents the oil from separating, ensuring a creamy consistency that clings beautifully to all salad components.

Taste the dressing before adding it to the salad to adjust seasoning. If it’s too tart, a pinch of sugar or a drizzle of honey can balance the acidity. Conversely, if you find the dressing too thick, a splash of water can help thin it to a desired consistency. This simple dressing not only complements the salad beautifully but can also double as a marinade for grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

4 cups of thinly sliced celery
1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup of chopped nuts (almonds or walnuts)
1/4 cup of feta cheese, crumbled
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Dressing Ingredients

1/4 cup of olive oil
2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to wash the celery thoroughly and dry it well to ensure a fresh flavor in your salad.

Instructions

Prepare the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced celery, cherry tomatoes, chopped nuts, and feta cheese.

Prepare the Dressing

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

Combine and Serve

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat. Let it sit for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together. Garnish with fresh parsley.

This salad can be enjoyed immediately or stored in the refrigerator for an hour before serving for even more flavor!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding a dash of red pepper flakes to the dressing or mixing in some sliced radishes for an added crunch.

Make-Ahead Tips

This salad is perfect for meal prep, and you can make it ahead of time with a few adjustments. To keep the celery and tomatoes crisp, store the dressing separately and combine right before serving. If preparing the salad a day in advance, chop the celery and tomatoes, and keep them in airtight containers in the fridge. This will help maintain their freshness until you’re ready to serve.

If you're looking to extend the storage, consider omitting the feta cheese from the initial prep. You can add crumbled feta just before serving to preserve its creaminess and prevent it from becoming soggy. The salad should be consumed within 1-2 days for the best taste, but the components can last longer individually.

Serving Suggestions

This Crunchy Celery Salad serves beautifully as a light lunch or side dish. Pair it with grilled meats or fish to balance its freshness against richer flavors. Additionally, it makes an excellent topping for sandwiches or wraps. Simply pile the salad on top of a slice of whole-grain bread with some protein, such as turkey or hummus, for an easy and satisfying meal.

To enhance the flavor further, consider serving the salad with a sprinkle of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you enjoy a bit of heat. A few slices of avocado can add creaminess as well, providing a delightful contrast to the crispness of the salad. Don’t shy away from personalizing it to suit your taste!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad and dressing separately. Mix them together just before serving for the best texture.

→ What can I substitute for nuts?

If you have nut allergies, try adding seeds such as sunflower or pumpkin seeds for a similar crunch.

→ Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! You can include bell peppers, cucumbers, or even shredded carrots for additional color and nutrients.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients used are naturally gluten-free, making this salad a safe choice for those with gluten sensitivities.