Crunchy Celery Salad Recipes You’ll Love (Quick & Easy)

Celery salad recipes might not sound like the star of your dinner table, but let me assure you, this crunchy delight packs a punch. Imagine crisp celery, vibrant vegetables, and a dressing that brings it all together in a symphony of flavors and textures. It’s the perfect sidekick to your main dishes or even a delightful lunch on its own.

Growing up, my family loved summer barbecues where this celery salad made a regular appearance. It was always the underdog on the buffet table, overshadowed by more glamorous dishes. Yet, every time I took a bite, I’d be reminded of those warm sunny days filled with laughter and delicious food. Trust me, once you try this refreshing dish, you’ll be counting down the days until your next barbecue.

I remember serving this salad at one of our family gatherings, and everyone couldn’t stop raving about how refreshing it was.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Fresh Celery: Choose firm stalks with bright green leaves for optimal flavor and crunch.

• Red Bell Pepper: A sweet addition that adds vibrant color; look for firm peppers.

• Carrots: Fresh and crunchy; peel them for a smoother texture in the salad.

• Green Onions: These add a mild onion flavor; opt for bright green tops without wilting.

• Dried Cranberries: For a touch of sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the veggies.

• Sunflower Seeds: Toasted seeds bring crunch and nutty flavor; lightly toast them if you prefer.

For the Dressing:

• Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for best results in flavor.

• Balsamic Vinegar: Adds acidity and depth; feel free to switch to lemon juice for brightness.

• Honey or Maple Syrup: A hint of sweetness balances the tanginess; adjust according to taste preference.

• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all flavors; use freshly cracked black pepper for extra kick.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Veggies: Start by washing all your vegetables thoroughly under cold water. Chop celery into bite-sized pieces, slice red bell pepper thinly, and grate carrots for added texture.

Create the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), salt, and pepper until combined. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Toss Ingredients Together: In a large mixing bowl, combine chopped celery, red bell pepper slices, grated carrots, sliced green onions, cranberries, and sunflower seeds.

Add the Dressing: Drizzle your prepared dressing over the vegetable mixture. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated with the delicious dressing.

Chill Before Serving: Allow the salad to sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps meld all those fantastic flavors together beautifully.

This celery salad recipe might just become your go-to dish for every occasion!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by washing and cutting the celery into bite-sized pieces. Mix it with dressing immediately for maximum crunch.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out ingredients! Try adding apples or nuts for a sweet, crunchy twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store in an airtight container in the fridge. Enjoy within three days for optimal freshness and crunchiness.

The first time I made celery salad, my friends couldn’t stop raving about it; they even asked for seconds!

FAQ

What are some easy celery salad recipes?

You can create a simple celery salad with apples, walnuts, and a light vinaigrette.

Can I make celery salad ahead of time?

Yes, prepare ingredients separately, but mix them right before serving for best texture.

What dressing complements celery salad recipes well?

A tangy lemon vinaigrette or creamy ranch dressing pairs wonderfully with celery salads.

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Celery Salad

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Celery salad is a refreshing and crunchy dish that dazzles with vibrant colors and textures. Perfect as a side or light lunch, this easy-to-make recipe combines crisp celery, sweet red bell peppers, and chewy dried cranberries, all tossed in a tangy dressing. Ideal for summer barbecues or casual gatherings, this salad is sure to impress your guests while bringing back fond memories of family meals.

• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 cups fresh celery (chopped)
• 1 cup red bell pepper (thinly sliced)
• 1 cup carrots (shredded)
• 1/2 cup green onions (sliced)
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup sunflower seeds (toasted)
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tbsp honey (or maple syrup)
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Wash and chop all vegetables: celery, red bell pepper, carrots, and green onions.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine chopped celery, red bell pepper slices, shredded carrots, sliced green onions, cranberries, and sunflower seeds.
4. Drizzle the dressing over the vegetable mixture and toss gently until evenly coated.
5. Chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

• Author: DANIEL LAWSON
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 65mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 0mg