Marinated Celery Salad

Name: Marinated Celery Salad
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups sliced celery; 1/2 cup diced red onion; 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley; 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil; 1/4 cup red apple vinegar; 1/4 tsp kosher salt; 1/4 cup shaved Parmigiano-Reggiano; 1/4 cup chopped walnuts

Published: February 23, 2026

by Victoria

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: You can whip up this salad in just 20 minutes, making it a perfect last-minute addition to any meal.
Flavorful Profile: The blend of olive oil, vinegar, and seasonings enhances the natural taste of celery and adds depth to the overall flavor.
Nutritious Ingredients: Filled with fresh vegetables and healthy fats from walnuts and olive oil, this salad supports a balanced diet.
Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a side dish, add it to your lunchbox, or serve it on top of greens for a light meal.
Crowd-Pleaser: Its unique taste and texture make it appealing to both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious marinated celery salad, you will need some essential tools. Having the right equipment will make your preparation easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowl
Measuring cups
Whisk or fork
Swivel peeler

Importance of Each Tool

Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine all ingredients easily without spilling.
Measuring cups: Accurate measurements ensure that flavors are balanced in your salad.
Whisk or fork: These tools help you mix the dressing thoroughly for even coating.
Swivel peeler: Perfect for creating thin shavings of parmesan that enhance the salad’s presentation.

Ingredients

This simple celery salad recipe is full of delicious flavor and wholesome ingredients, including red onion, parsley, walnuts, and shaved parmesan.

Fresh Vegetables

4 cups sliced celery (about 6 to 8 stalks)
1/2 cup diced red onion
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Dressing Components

1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
1/4 cup red apple vinegar
1/4 tsp Kosher salt

Toppings

1/4 cup shaved Parmigiano-Reggiano (more to taste)
1/4 cup chopped walnuts (more to taste)

How to Make Marinated Celery Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Salad Base

Combine the celery slices, diced red onion, and chopped parsley in a mixing bowl.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a measuring cup or small bowl:
1. Whisk together the olive oil, red apple vinegar, and salt until well blended.
2. Pour this mixture over the salad ingredients in the mixing bowl.

Step 3: Toss and Marinate

Toss all ingredients until well-coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid. Transfer it to the fridge and let it sit for at least one hour to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 4: Add Toppings Before Serving

In the meantime, prepare your toppings:
1. Use a swivel peeler on a block of Parmigiano-Reggiano to create wide shavings.
2. After marinating time is complete, add cheese shavings and chopped walnuts to the salad.
3. Stir well before serving.

Enjoy your Marinated Celery Salad as a vibrant side dish that everyone will love!

How to Serve Marinated Celery Salad

Marinated celery salad is a versatile dish that can complement various meals. Its refreshing taste and crunchy texture make it an ideal side for many occasions. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

As a Standalone Dish

This salad can be enjoyed on its own as a light lunch or snack, perfect for warm days.

With Grilled Meats

Pair marinated celery salad with grilled chicken or steak to add a cool contrast to the hot, smoky flavors of the meat.

In a Wrap or Sandwich

Use this salad as a filling in wraps or sandwiches. It adds crunch and freshness, making your meal more satisfying.

Alongside Pasta Dishes

Serve marinated celery salad next to your favorite pasta dishes. The acidity of the vinegar complements creamy sauces beautifully.

As Part of a Charcuterie Board

Include this salad on a charcuterie board. It provides a refreshing break between rich cheeses and cured meats.

With Quinoa or Grain Bowls

Top quinoa or grain bowls with marinated celery salad for added texture and flavor, enhancing the overall dish.

How to Perfect Marinated Celery Salad

To ensure your marinated celery salad reaches its full potential, consider these helpful tips:

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh celery and herbs will enhance the overall flavor and texture of your salad.
Marinate Longer: Allowing the salad to sit in the fridge for longer than an hour will deepen the flavor profile.
Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to tweak salt or vinegar amounts based on your taste preference for a more personalized touch.
Add Variety: Experiment with different nuts or cheeses to find combinations that you love.
Serve Chilled: Serving the salad cold enhances its refreshing qualities, making it even more enjoyable.
Garnish Before Serving: A sprinkle of extra parsley can brighten the presentation just before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Marinated Celery Salad

Marinated celery salad pairs well with various side dishes. Here are some excellent options that complement its flavors:

Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers enhance your meal with their smoky flavor.
Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes add heartiness and contrast nicely with the crunchy salad.
Rice Pilaf: Flavored rice pilaf provides a comforting base that balances the tanginess of the salad.
Hummus and Pita Chips: A healthy snack option that combines well with the fresh flavors of marinated celery salad.
Cornbread: Sweet cornbread offers a delightful contrast to the acidic notes of your salad.
Cauliflower Rice: This low-carb alternative adds texture while keeping your meal light and fresh.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Marinated Celery Salad, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

Skipping the marinating time: Allowing the salad to sit for at least an hour is essential. This lets all the flavors blend beautifully.
Overdressing the salad: Use the recommended amount of dressing. Too much can make the salad soggy instead of refreshing.
Ignoring ingredient freshness: Fresh celery, herbs, and other ingredients are crucial. Always choose vibrant, crisp produce for the best flavor.
Neglecting to taste before serving: Always taste your salad before serving. Adjust seasoning or add more cheese or nuts if needed.
Forgetting about texture: Ensure you chop your vegetables evenly for a consistent texture in every bite.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
Consume within 3 days for optimal taste and texture.

Freezing Marinated Celery Salad

Freezing is not recommended: The texture of celery does not hold up well after freezing. It’s best enjoyed fresh.

Reheating Marinated Celery Salad

Oven: Not applicable as this salad is best served cold.
Microwave: Not recommended; heating will alter the salad’s texture and flavor.
Stovetop: Not applicable; this dish is intended to be eaten cold.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Marinated Celery Salad.

Can I make Marinated Celery Salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Just remember to add cheese and walnuts right before serving for the best texture.

What can I add to my Marinated Celery Salad?

Feel free to customize! You can add diced apples, sliced cucumbers, or even crumbled feta cheese for extra flavor.

How long does Marinated Celery Salad last?

The salad stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I use different nuts in this salad?

Absolutely! Almonds or pecans work great if you want a different nutty flavor.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just ensure any added ingredients are also gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

Marinated Celery Salad is a delightful dish that combines refreshing flavors with healthy ingredients. Its versatility allows for many customization options, making it an excellent choice for any meal. Give this recipe a try and enjoy its crisp texture and rich taste!

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