Celery Salad with Feta

Name: Celery Salad with Feta
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups fresh celery, chopped; 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 1 teaspoon honey; Salt and pepper, to taste

Highlighted under: Effortless Cooking Creations

I love making this Celery Salad with Feta when I want a refreshing side dish that's both crunchy and satisfying. The crispness of the celery combined with the creamy feta cheese creates a delightful contrast in every bite. A sprinkle of fresh herbs and a zesty lemon dressing tie everything together beautifully. It's a simple yet vibrant salad that engages all my senses and pairs well with various main dishes. Perfect for summer barbecues or cozy family dinners, it never fails to impress my guests!

Created by

Lina

Last updated on 2026-01-30T00:27:28.703Z

When I first experimented with this salad, I was captivated by the combination of flavors that brightened my meal. The crunch of fresh celery adds a satisfying texture, while the feta brings a creamy touch that elevates the dish. I also like to add a hint of red onion for extra zing, which is a game-changer in flavor.

In terms of dressing, I find that a simple lemon vinaigrette works wonders. The acidity of the lemon balances the saltiness of the feta beautifully. I always recommend giving the salad a quick toss before serving to ensure every bite is deliciously dressed!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Refreshing crunch from fresh celery
Creamy feta adds a delightful richness
Simple to prepare with minimal ingredients

Understanding Your Ingredients

The star ingredient of this Celery Salad is, of course, the celery itself. When selecting celery, look for firm, vibrant green stalks that are not wilted. The freshness of the celery impacts the crunch and overall flavor of the salad. If your celery lacks crunch, it may have been stored too long, so choose a fresh batch for the best results.

Feta cheese adds a creamy texture and tangy flavor, making it an essential component of the salad. Opt for high-quality feta that is crumbly, as this will blend nicely throughout the salad without overwhelming the other ingredients. If you prefer a different cheese, goat cheese can serve as an excellent substitute for a similar creamy effect.

Balancing Flavors

The lemon dressing is key to bringing all the flavors together in this salad. The acidity from the lemon juice not only brightens the dish but also enhances the natural sweetness of the celery. Don't hesitate to adjust the honey to your taste; this can balance the acidity if you prefer a slightly sweeter dressing.

When mixing the salad, be gentle to avoid crushing the feta. A light hand ensures that you maintain the distinct chunks of cheese that provide bursts of flavor. Tossing gently also helps preserve the crispness of the celery, making every bite enjoyable and full of texture.

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

4 cups fresh celery, chopped
1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Lemon Dressing Ingredients

1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon honey
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Vegetables

Start by washing and chopping the celery into bite-sized pieces. Slice the red onion thinly and chop the parsley, setting them aside in a bowl.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well-blended.

Assemble the Salad

In a large serving bowl, add the chopped celery, crumbled feta, sliced red onion, and chopped parsley. Drizzle the dressing over the top.

Toss and Serve

Gently toss the salad to combine all ingredients evenly. Serve immediately or chill for a short while to let the flavors meld.

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding some sliced olives or cherry tomatoes. You could also substitute the feta with goat cheese for a different taste profile.

Make-Ahead Tips

This salad can be prepared in advance, making it a fantastic option for busy days or gatherings. To keep the celery crisp, I recommend storing the salad without the dressing and mixing it just before serving. This way, the ingredients won’t become soggy, and the freshness remains intact.

You can chop the celery, red onion, and parsley a few hours ahead of time. Just place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. The feta can also be crumbled in advance; just be sure to keep it stored properly to maintain its flavor.

Variations to Explore

If you'd like to add a bit more color and nutrition, consider including diced apples or toasted nuts like walnuts or almonds. The added sweetness from the apple or crunch from the nuts will enhance the texture and flavor profile of the salad, making it even more satisfying.

For a Mediterranean twist, you could incorporate kalamata olives or sun-dried tomatoes. These ingredients can add a delightful saltiness that complements the feta while providing a pop of flavor that pairs beautifully with the citrusy dressing.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare this salad in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours ahead of time, but I recommend adding the dressing just before serving to keep the veggies crisp.

→ What can I serve this salad with?

This celery salad pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as part of a light lunch spread.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! All the ingredients in this salad are gluten-free.

→ Can I substitute other ingredients?

Yes, feel free to experiment with ingredients like cucumbers, bell peppers, or different herbs to cater to your taste.