Celery Salad With Walnuts And Parmesan

Name: Celery Salad With Walnuts And Parmesan
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 medium celery stalks, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup walnuts, coarsely chopped and toasted; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Nutritious Creations

I love this Celery Salad with Walnuts and Parmesan for its refreshing crunch and rich flavor profile. The combination of crisp celery, toasted walnuts, and salty Parmesan creates a delightful melange that perfectly balances textures and tastes. It's a quick dish that packs a punch, ideal for lunch or as a side at dinner. Just a squeeze of lemon elevates the flavors, making it a bright addition to any meal. Whether you’re looking for something light or want to impress guests at a gathering, this salad is a fantastic choice.

Created by

Rhea Bennett

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:49:16.324Z

When I first experimented with this salad, I was amazed at how simple ingredients could create such a rich and complex dish. The key was in toasting the walnuts; this brings out their natural oils and intensifies their flavor. I remember preparing this salad on a hot summer day, and it quickly became a favorite, not just among my family but also among friends.

Another essential tip I discovered is to slice the celery on a bias. This not only makes the salad visually appealing but also enhances the crunch with every bite. It’s a great reminder that presentation counts, even in simple salads—it makes the experience that much more enjoyable!

Why You'll Love This Salad
Refreshing crunch that invigorates your palate
Nutty flavor from roasted walnuts that complements the saltiness of Parmesan
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for any occasion

Understanding the Ingredients

Each component of this Celery Salad contributes to the dish's overall profile. The crispiness of fresh celery adds a delightful crunch, making every bite refreshing. Choose vibrant green stalks for a pop of color and the best flavor; avoid any that are wilted or discolored. The walnuts not only offer a nutty essence but also provide healthy fats and protein, making this salad a more fulfilling option.

Parmesan adds a distinct salty richness to the mix. Opt for freshly grated Parmesan, as it melts more readily with the other ingredients and gives a creamier texture compared to pre-grated varieties. When selecting walnuts, buy raw and toast them yourself. This step enhances their natural oils, intensifying flavor and aroma, so don’t skip it!

Tips for Perfect Preparation

When preparing the celery, try slicing it at an angle, which not only enhances its appearance but also increases the surface area for dressing to cling to. A sharp knife is essential here; a dull one may mash the celery and ruin its crisp texture. After washing, pat the stalks dry to remove any excess moisture that may dilute the seasoning when you dress the salad.

For toasting walnuts, keep a close eye on them as they can go from perfectly golden to burnt within seconds. Stir frequently and remove them from heat when they emit a nutty aroma and showcase a golden hue. If you find you’re short on time or walnuts, pecans or even almonds make excellent substitutes in this salad.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your salad:

For the Salad

4 medium celery stalks, thinly sliced
1/2 cup walnuts, coarsely chopped and toasted
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix these ingredients for a delightful taste.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your salad:

Prepare the Celery

Wash and thinly slice the celery stalks on a bias for a nice presentation and crunch.

Toast the Walnuts

In a dry pan over medium heat, toast the chopped walnuts for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently until golden brown.

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the sliced celery, toasted walnuts, and grated Parmesan.

Dress the Salad

Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, then season with salt and pepper. Toss until all ingredients are well coated.

Serve

Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture. Enjoy your vibrant salad!

Your fresh salad is ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider sprinkling some fresh herbs like parsley or basil on top before serving.

Make-Ahead & Storage

This salad is best enjoyed immediately for optimal freshness, especially with the textures of the celery and walnuts. However, if you wish to prepare it in advance, consider storing the components separately. You can chop celery and toast walnuts a day prior. Just combine them with Parmesan and dressing right before serving to prevent sogginess.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. However, be mindful that the salad might lose some of its crunch over time. To revive it, try adding a touch more olive oil or lemon juice when you serve it.

Variations to Explore

Feel free to customize this salad by adding ingredients that suit your taste. For an extra burst of flavor, consider incorporating fruits like diced apples or pears for sweetness, or even a handful of dried cranberries for a chewy texture. These additions can create a delightful contrast to the crunchy celery and creamy Parmesan.

For those looking to enhance the nutritional profile of this dish, consider adding cooked quinoa or chickpeas. Both ingredients will increase protein content and make the salad more satisfying. This variation works beautifully as a main dish for lunch or a light dinner!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare this salad in advance?

It's best to serve the salad fresh as the celery can become soggy if dressed too early. You can prepare the ingredients ahead and mix them just before serving.

→ What can I substitute for Parmesan?

If you prefer a vegan option, you can use nutritional yeast or a combination of crushed sunflower seeds and nutritional yeast to mimic the cheesy flavor.

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients in this salad are gluten-free, making it a perfect choice for those with gluten sensitivities.

→ How can I add more protein to the salad?

You can add grilled chicken or chickpeas for a protein boost, making it a more filling meal.