Celery Salad With Lemon Dressing

Name: Celery Salad With Lemon Dressing
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups celery, chopped; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Smart Kitchen

I absolutely love the crispness of celery, and making this Celery Salad with Lemon Dressing has become a refreshing favorite in my kitchen. This recipe balances the crunchy texture of fresh celery with a zesty lemon dressing that brightens up the flavors beautifully. It's a simple yet satisfying dish that can be served as a side or a light meal. With just a few ingredients, you can create a salad that's both healthy and delicious, perfect for any occasion.

Created by

Gemma Hollis

Last updated on 2026-02-15T00:19:36.516Z

When I first made this Celery Salad with Lemon Dressing, I was amazed at how something so simple could taste so fresh and vibrant. I remember the first crunch of that celery, paired with the tangy lemon dressing—it was like a burst of sunshine! I love how the flavors meld together while keeping the salad light and refreshing.

This salad is a regular in my home, especially on those warm summer days. I often throw in some diced apples for that extra crunch and sweetness. Don't forget to let it sit for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors develop!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Crisp and refreshing, perfect for warm days
Zesty lemon dressing enhances the flavor of celery
A quick and healthy side dish or light meal

Understanding the Ingredients

The foundation of this Celery Salad relies heavily on the freshness of its key ingredients. Celery not only provides crunch but also a subtle earthiness that pairs beautifully with the bright flavors of lemon. When selecting celery, choose crisp stalks that are firm to the touch. Avoid any that appear limp or discolored, as this can affect the overall texture of your salad.

Cherry tomatoes add bursts of sweetness that contrast wonderfully with the savory elements of the dish. While red onions offer a sharp bite, you can substitute them with green onions or shallots for a milder flavor. Fresh parsley is essential for a hint of herbal freshness, but feel free to experiment with basil or cilantro based on your taste preferences.

Crafting the Perfect Dressing

The dressing is a crucial component that elevates the entire salad. Using high-quality extra virgin olive oil not only adds richness but also enhances the salad's overall flavor profile. Whisking the dressing until emulsified—where the oil and lemon juice combine and thicken slightly—ensures it clings effortlessly to the salad ingredients, providing a well-rounded taste in each bite.

If you're looking to adjust the tanginess of your dressing, consider adding a touch of honey or maple syrup for sweetness. This can balance the acidity of the lemon juice, especially if you prefer a milder tang. Additionally, experimenting with different types of vinegar, like apple cider or white wine vinegar, can impart unique flavor notes.

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

4 cups celery, chopped
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Dressing Ingredients

3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste

Combine all ingredients in a mixing bowl to make the salad.

Instructions

Prepare the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the chopped celery, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and parsley. Toss gently to mix.

Make the Dressing

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

Combine and Serve

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to coat all the ingredients. Let it sit for 5 minutes before serving for the best flavor.

Enjoy your refreshing Celery Salad!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers for extra crunch and color.

Serving Suggestions

This Celery Salad with Lemon Dressing shines as a light meal on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish. For a heartier option, consider tossing in some cooked quinoa or chickpeas for added protein and texture. This makes it versatile enough for both casual lunches and dinner parties.

For a touch of elegance, serve this salad on a bed of leafy greens such as arugula or spinach. A sprinkle of feta or goat cheese on top could also enhance the flavor profile, adding a creamy contrast to the crunchy salad.

Make-Ahead Tips

This salad can be prepared in advance, making it an excellent choice for meal prepping. To maintain the crispness of the celery, I recommend storing the salad ingredients and dressing separately in airtight containers. The salad will stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 2 days when kept refrigerated and properly stored.

If you're planning to enjoy this salad after a day or two, consider adding the dressing just before serving to avoid sogginess. You can whisk the dressing together while the salad sits, ensuring it remains vibrant and flavorful at mealtime.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, but keep the dressing separate until you're ready to serve to maintain the crispness.

→ Can I use other dressings?

Absolutely! Try balsamic vinaigrette or a yogurt-based dressing for a different flavor.

→ Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes! It's great for meal prep as the salad keeps well in the fridge for a few days.

→ What can I pair this salad with?

It pairs nicely with grilled chicken, seafood, or as a light snack on its own.