Celery Salad With Parmesan And Lemon

Name: Celery Salad With Parmesan And Lemon
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 stalks of celery, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup fresh Parmesan cheese, shaved; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; Juice of 1 lemon; 3 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I always find myself searching for refreshing and vibrant salads to brighten up my meals. This Celery Salad with Parmesan and Lemon is a discovery I’m eager to share! The crisp texture of the celery combined with the rich umami of Parmesan creates a delightful contrast. Drizzled with a bright lemon dressing, it’s not only quick to make but also a perfect accompaniment to any dish. Whether it's a light lunch or a side at dinner, this salad packs a punch of flavor that truly elevates the experience.

Created by

Cassidy Moore

Last updated on 2026-01-22T09:16:08.652Z

Last week, while experimenting with ingredients, I stumbled upon the perfect union of flavors in this salad. The sharpness of lemon juice really enhances the fresh taste of celery, making it an irresistible choice. I also discovered that adding a sprinkle of flaky sea salt before serving intensifies the flavors, so don’t skip that essential step!

This salad is not just about simplicity; it's a testament to how a few high-quality ingredients can shine. Every bite bursts with freshness, and I love presenting it on a bright plate to make it visually appealing. It's the perfect starter for any dinner party!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Crisp and refreshing crunch of celery
Rich, nutty flavor from fresh Parmesan
Bright and zingy lemon dressing
Quick and easy to prepare with minimal ingredients

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The main component of this salad, celery, provides not just a satisfying crunch, but also adds a mild, slightly peppery flavor that complements the sharper notes of Parmesan. When selecting celery, look for firm stalks that are bright green with fresh leaves; limp sticks may indicate age. Freshness ensures the salad maintains that critical crisp texture.

Parmesan cheese contributes a rich umami flavor, elevating the overall taste profile of the salad. I recommend using freshly shaved Parmesan rather than pre-grated for the best flavor and texture. The creamy shavings melt in your mouth, creating a lovely contrast with the snap of the celery. If you don't have Parmesan, Pecorino Romano is a delicious alternative that offers a slightly stronger flavor.

Perfecting the Dressing

The lemon dressing is where the magic happens. Freshly squeezed lemon juice not only brightens the salad but also helps to balance the richness of the Parmesan. When juicing the lemon, roll it on a countertop before cutting; this helps release more juice. To achieve the ideal consistency, whisk the olive oil in gradually until the mixture is glossy and emulsified. This ensures every bite is evenly coated without being overly oily.

Alternative oils, such as avocado oil, can be substituted if you're looking for a milder flavor, but olive oil provides a classic note that complements the other ingredients beautifully. Be careful when adding salt; Parmesan is naturally salty, so start with a small amount and adjust to taste to avoid overpowering the salad.

Ingredients

For the Salad

4 stalks of celery, thinly sliced
1/2 cup fresh Parmesan cheese, shaved
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

For the Dressing

Juice of 1 lemon
3 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste

Combine all ingredients in a bowl and toss before serving!

Instructions

Prepare the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the sliced celery, shaved Parmesan, and chopped parsley.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Combine

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until well combined.

Serve

Transfer the salad to a serving platter and enjoy immediately.

Enjoy your salad as a refreshing side!

Pro Tips

For an added crunch, consider including some toasted nuts or seeds.

Storage Tips

While this salad is best enjoyed fresh, if you wish to make it ahead of time, consider storing the dressing separately. This helps to preserve the crispness of the celery. You can prepare the salad components and refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to two days. When you're ready to serve, simply toss with the dressing and enjoy!

If you're looking to make a larger batch for a gathering, doubling the recipe is simple. Just ensure you adjust the dressing quantities accordingly to keep the same flavor balance. I often prepare a large quantity and let guests serve themselves—the salad tastes even better after a few hours as the flavors meld!

Serving Suggestions

This Celery Salad with Parmesan and Lemon is incredibly versatile. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, making it an excellent side dish for summer barbecues. The vibrant flavors can also stand up to richer dishes like roasted chicken or creamy pasta, offering a refreshing contrast that enhances overall meal enjoyment.

For a more filling option, consider adding cooked quinoa or chickpeas to the salad. These ingredients not only add protein but also provide a nutty flavor that complements the existing ingredients. You can also sprinkle some toasted nuts or seeds on top for an extra crunch and to elevate the nutrient profile of the dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad in advance?

It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can pre-slice the vegetables. Add dressing just before serving.

→ What can I substitute for Parmesan?

You can use pecorino or a vegan cheese alternative for a similar flavor.

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe contains no gluten ingredients!

→ How can I customize this salad?

Feel free to add other vegetables like cucumbers or incorporate apples for sweetness.