Celery Salad With Lemon Zest

Name: Celery Salad With Lemon Zest
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups of chopped celery; 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/4 cup of red onion, finely chopped; 1/4 cup of fresh parsley, chopped; 2 tablespoons of olive oil; 1 tablespoon of lemon juice; 1 teaspoon of lemon zest; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Clean Healthy Meals Recipes

I absolutely love making this Celery Salad With Lemon Zest because it’s a refreshing and vibrant dish that brightens up any meal. The crunch of the celery paired with the zing of fresh lemon makes it perfect for summer barbecues or as a light lunch option. I enjoy experimenting with the dressing, sometimes adding a touch of honey or mustard for an extra flavor layer. Each bite is packed with freshness and it's incredibly easy to whip up, making it a go-to recipe in my kitchen!

Created by

Amelia Roberts

Last updated on 2026-02-02T00:21:36.444Z

I first discovered this Celery Salad With Lemon Zest during a picnic with friends, and it was an instant hit. The combination of crisp celery, bright lemon, and a hint of olive oil creates a delightful medley that pairs well with grilled meats or can be enjoyed on its own. I always recommend using fresh ingredients to enhance the salad's flavor.

What I love most about this salad is its versatility. You can add other ingredients like nuts or dried fruit for added texture or sweetness. Plus, it’s super quick to prepare, making it a perfect last-minute addition to any meal!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Crisp and refreshing celery that revitalizes the palate
Bright lemon zest adds a vibrant zing
Quick and easy to prepare for any occasion

Perfecting the Celery Base

Choosing the right celery is essential for this salad. Look for firm, crisp stalks that have a bright green color, as they will provide the best crunch and flavor. If you come across organic celery, that's even better, as it tends to be fresher and more flavorful. Remember to rinse the celery thoroughly to remove any dirt, and when chopping, try to aim for uniform pieces to ensure even mixing and presentation.

The addition of cherry tomatoes is not just for color; they bring a juicy sweetness that balances the crispness of the celery. Opt for ripe, seasonal tomatoes for optimal flavor. Halve them to create bite-sized pieces that blend seamlessly with the celery. If you want to add a twist, consider using grape tomatoes or even sun-dried tomatoes for a more robust flavor profile.

Crafting the Dressing

The dressing is where you can really personalize this salad. While I've provided a simple lemon-based dressing, feel free to experiment with herbs or even spices. Adding a teaspoon of Dijon mustard could give the dressing an exciting zing and depth. Alternatively, a sprinkle of dried oregano or basil would enhance the salad's flavor profile without overpowering the freshness. Just make sure to adjust the salt to your liking based on any additions.

When whisking your dressing, aim for a well-emulsified blend that should appear slightly thickened and glossy. If the dressing feels too thick, a splash of water or additional lemon juice can help adjust the consistency. Taste it before serving—this is your chance to tweak the flavors, so don't hesitate to add more lemon or even a dash of honey for sweetness if you prefer a subtle contrast.

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

4 cups of chopped celery
1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup of red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup of fresh parsley, chopped

Dressing Ingredients

2 tablespoons of olive oil
1 tablespoon of lemon juice
1 teaspoon of lemon zest
Salt and pepper to taste

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 small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Combine and Serve

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until evenly coated. Serve immediately or let it chill for 10 minutes for flavors to meld.

Pro Tips

For an extra crunch, consider adding some toasted sunflower seeds or slivered almonds to the salad.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It's best consumed within a day to maintain the freshness of the celery and the juiciness of the tomatoes. The dressing can cause the ingredients to become soggy over time, so consider storing the dressing separately if you plan on making it ahead of time.

For those who want to prepare components in advance, you can chop the celery and tomatoes up to a day ahead. Just keep them refrigerated in separate containers. When ready to serve, simply mix them with the dressing for a bright and zesty dish that tastes freshly made.

Serving Suggestions

This Celery Salad With Lemon Zest shines as a standalone dish, especially during warmer months. For a more substantial meal, consider pairing it with grilled chicken or fish, which complements the salad's bright flavors beautifully. It also makes an excellent side dish to rich or heavy entrees, offering a refreshing contrast on the plate.

Feel free to get creative with garnishes as well. A sprinkle of crushed nuts, like almonds or walnuts, can add a lovely crunch and an additional layer of flavor. Fresh herbs, such as mint or dill, can also elevate the dish, providing a fragrant aroma and unique taste that works wonderfully with the lemon dressing.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I add other vegetables to this salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, cucumbers, or even avocado for added flavor and nutrition.

→ How long can I store this salad?

The salad is best eaten fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

→ Can I make the dressing in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the dressing a day ahead and store it in the fridge until you're ready to use it.

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for gluten-intolerant individuals.