Celery Salad

Crisp, refreshing, and bursting with balanced flavors, celery salad is the perfect dish when you want something light yet satisfying. This vibrant salad transforms humble celery into a gourmet side or wholesome main dish by pairing it with hearty chickpeas, juicy tomatoes, fragrant herbs, and a bold sherry vinaigrette. If you’re searching for a celery salad that’s crunchy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to prepare, this recipe delivers outstanding results with minimal effort.

Unlike traditional leafy salads that wilt quickly, this celery-based salad stays crisp and refreshing even after marinating. It offers a wonderful contrast of textures and flavors — tangy dressing, creamy cheese, tender chickpeas, and aromatic basil — making it an impressive yet approachable dish suitable for everyday meals or elegant gatherings.

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh and Crunchy Texture – The celery maintains its crisp bite, offering a refreshing contrast to creamy chickpeas and soft herbs.
• Nutritious and Wholesome – Packed with fiber, plant protein, and antioxidants, this salad is both delicious and nourishing.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Works beautifully as a side dish, lunch option, or part of a dinner spread.
• Make-Ahead Friendly – The flavors actually improve as the salad marinates.
• Balanced Flavor Profile – The tangy vinaigrette, subtle sweetness, and savory cheese create harmony in every bite.
• Versatile and Customizable – Easy to adjust with seasonal vegetables, protein add-ins, or dairy-free options.

What truly makes this celery salad stand out is its layered flavor-building technique. The garlic-infused vinaigrette and marinating time allow the ingredients to absorb bold flavors, creating a dish that tastes far more complex than its simple ingredient list suggests. It delivers comfort and freshness simultaneously, making it a crowd-pleasing favorite.

Ingredients Needed

For the Salad Base

• 3 tablespoons sherry vinegar – Provides a bright, slightly nutty acidity that elevates the dressing.
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard – Adds tang and helps emulsify the vinaigrette.
• ½ teaspoon maple syrup or honey – Balances acidity with subtle sweetness.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper – Enhances and balances all flavors.
• 2 garlic cloves, smashed and peeled – Infuses the dressing with deep savory aroma.
• ⅓ cup extra-virgin olive oil (plus more if needed) – Creates a smooth, rich dressing.
• 4 cups cooked or canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed – Adds protein and satisfying texture.
• 4 large or 6 small celery stalks, trimmed and cut into thin julienne strips – Provides crunch and freshness. Reserve the celery leaves for garnish and flavor.
• 2 large scallions (white and light green parts), thinly sliced diagonally – Adds mild onion flavor. Alternatively, use ¼ cup thinly sliced red onion.
• 1 to 2 cups celery leaves, roughly chopped – Offers herbal freshness and intensifies celery flavor.
• 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, halved – Adds sweetness and juiciness.
• ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced – Introduces aromatic brightness.
• 2 ounces Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, grated or crumbled feta – Adds salty, savory richness.

Optional For Serving

• 1 small loaf crusty day-old artisan bread – Ideal for making crunchy homemade croutons.
• Romaine, butterhead lettuce, escarole, or endive leaves – Provides a tender base layer for presentation.

How to Make Celery Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Flavor-Infused Dressing

In a large mixing bowl, combine the sherry vinegar, Dijon mustard, maple syrup (or honey), and a generous pinch of salt and black pepper. Whisk until smooth and well blended.

Add the smashed garlic cloves to the bowl and stir gently. Allow the mixture to sit for 15 to 30 minutes. This resting period allows the garlic to infuse the vinaigrette, building a deeper, more complex flavor base without overpowering the salad.

Step 2: Emulsify the Vinaigrette

Slowly drizzle in the extra-virgin olive oil while whisking continuously. The gradual addition helps the dressing emulsify, creating a creamy, cohesive texture rather than separating into oil and vinegar layers.

You’ll know the dressing is ready when it appears slightly thickened and glossy. This consistency ensures the dressing coats the vegetables evenly.

Step 3: Combine the Core Salad Ingredients

Add the chickpeas, julienned celery, and sliced scallions directly into the bowl with the dressing. Toss thoroughly to ensure every piece is coated with the vinaigrette.

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight. This marinating time softens the chickpeas slightly and allows the celery to absorb flavor while maintaining its crisp texture.

Step 4: Adjust Seasonings Before Serving

Remove the salad from the refrigerator and discard the garlic cloves. Taste the salad and adjust seasoning if needed. You may add a small splash of vinegar for brightness or a drizzle of olive oil for extra richness.

Allow the salad to sit at cool room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving. This helps restore the full flavor and aroma.

Step 5: Prepare Optional Homemade Croutons

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Tear the soft interior from the bread loaf into bite-sized chunks, leaving most of the crust intact for texture contrast.

Spread the bread pieces onto a rimmed baking sheet and bake for about 12 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Allow the croutons to cool completely before adding them to the salad to maintain crunch.

Step 6: Add Fresh Ingredients and Assemble

Just before serving, fold in the chopped celery leaves, halved tomatoes, fresh basil, and prepared croutons if using. Mixing these ingredients last preserves their freshness and prevents sogginess.

If serving on greens, arrange lettuce or endive leaves on the bottom of a serving bowl. Spoon the celery mixture over the greens, then finish with grated Parmigiano-Reggiano or crumbled feta. Add an extra sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper for garnish.

Serving and Storage Tips

For a visually appealing presentation, serve celery salad in a wide shallow bowl or layered platter. Garnish with extra basil leaves, cheese shavings, or a light drizzle of olive oil.

This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, roasted fish, lamb dishes, or vegetarian mains. It also works as a refreshing lunch when served with crusty bread or pita.

Storage Tips:

• Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Keep croutons separate until serving to maintain crunch.
• If the salad appears slightly dry after storage, refresh it with a splash of olive oil or vinegar.

Avoid freezing, as fresh celery loses its crisp texture after thawing.

Helpful Notes

• Slice celery into thin strips for the best texture and flavor absorption.
• If celery tastes slightly bitter, soak slices in ice water for 10 minutes before using.
• Swap chickpeas with white beans or lentils for variation.
• For a vegan version, omit cheese or replace it with dairy-free alternatives.
• Toasted nuts such as almonds or walnuts add extra crunch and protein.
• The salad tastes even better the next day as flavors continue developing.
• High-quality olive oil significantly improves the final flavor, so choose a premium extra-virgin variety.

Conclusion

This vibrant celery salad proves that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavor. With its crisp texture, protein-packed chickpeas, and aromatic herb vinaigrette, this dish offers a refreshing yet satisfying balance perfect for everyday meals or special gatherings.

Its make-ahead convenience and versatile serving options make it an excellent addition to any menu. Whether enjoyed as a side dish or a light main course, this salad delivers freshness, nutrition, and gourmet appeal in every bite.

If you try this recipe, please leave a comment and star rating to share your experience. Your feedback helps others discover this delicious dish. Don’t forget to share your creation on Pinterest or Facebook and tag your version!

What ingredients or variations did you try? Did you add nuts, grilled protein, or a different cheese? Let us know below!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I substitute another vinegar for sherry vinegar?

Yes. Red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar can be used. However, sherry vinegar provides a slightly richer and nuttier flavor.

Is celery salad healthy?

Absolutely. Celery is low in calories and high in antioxidants, while chickpeas provide plant-based protein and fiber, making this salad both nutritious and filling.

Can I make celery salad vegan?

Yes. Simply replace the cheese with a plant-based alternative or omit it entirely. The salad remains flavorful and satisfying.

How far in advance can I prepare this salad?

You can prepare it up to 24 hours in advance. Add fresh herbs, tomatoes, and croutons just before serving for best texture.

Why does my salad taste too acidic?

You can balance acidity by adding a drizzle of olive oil, a pinch of salt, or a small amount of honey or maple syrup.

Can I add protein to make it a full meal?

Yes. Grilled chicken, tuna, salmon, or tofu make excellent additions and transform the salad into a hearty main course.

How thin should celery be sliced?

Celery should be cut into thin julienne strips for optimal crunch and flavor absorption. Thick slices may feel fibrous and less pleasant to eat.