Celery Slaw With Lemon

Name: Celery Slaw With Lemon
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups celery, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Highlighted under: Natural Recipes

I love making this Celery Slaw With Lemon because it’s not only refreshing, but it also brings a vibrant crunch to any meal. The combination of crisp celery and zesty lemon creates a delightful balance that brightens up my plate. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up in just a few minutes, making it a perfect side dish for gatherings or weeknight dinners. Whether served alongside grilled meats or enjoyed on its own, this slaw never fails to impress. Give it a try and see how it transforms your meal!

Created by

Aileen Prescott

Last updated on 2026-02-10T19:51:12.496Z

When I first made this Celery Slaw With Lemon, I was truly amazed by how something so simple could be so flavorful. The trick lies in using fresh lemon juice, which enhances the natural crispness of the celery. I also discovered that letting the slaw sit for just a few minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a dish that is both light and refreshing.

Often, slaws can feel heavy, but this one captures a burst of brightness. I usually pair it with grilled chicken or fish to complement its flavor. Don't forget to taste and adjust the lemon; it can make all the difference!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A refreshing crunch that awakens your taste buds
Zesty lemon adds a bright twist to classic flavors
Effortlessly complements a wide variety of dishes

The Role of Celery in Slaw

Celery is the star of this slaw, providing not only a refreshing crunch but also a satisfying texture that contrasts well with softer dishes. When selecting celery, look for vibrant green stalks that are firm to the touch. Avoid any that are wilted or have brown spots, as this indicates age. The celery's natural flavor balances with the bright acidity of the lemon, making it a perfect vehicle for the dressing.

To properly prepare the celery, I recommend slicing it thinly, preferably at an angle, to maximize surface area and flavor absorption. This technique allows the dressing to cling more effectively, ensuring every bite is infused with that zesty lemon goodness. Additionally, consider cutting the celery into varying sizes; this can add dimension to the dish, making it visually appealing and texturally interesting.

Elevating Your Lemon Dressing

The dressing for this celery slaw is simple yet crucial. The key is to use fresh lemon juice, which brings a brightness that bottled juice can't replicate. I usually juice my lemons right before making the dressing to ensure maximum freshness and flavor. For a bit of sweetness, you can add a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup, which also helps balance the acidity, particularly if you're serving this slaw with rich, fatty meats.

When whisking the olive oil into the lemon juice, do it gradually to create an emulsion. This will give your dressing a silky texture that coats the celery perfectly. If you prefer a stronger flavor, consider adding a pinch of finely grated lemon zest to enhance the citrus profile. For garlic lovers, a touch of minced garlic can add a delicious kick—just make sure to balance it so it doesn't overpower the delicate flavors of the celery.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious slaw:

Celery Slaw

4 cups celery, thinly sliced
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Once you've collected your ingredients, you're ready to start!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your slaw:

Prepare the Celery

In a large bowl, combine the thinly sliced celery and red onion.

Make the Dressing

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

Combine and Toss

Pour the dressing over the celery and onion. Toss well to combine, ensuring everything is coated.

Garnish and Serve

If desired, sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving for an extra pop of color.

Your refreshing Celery Slaw With Lemon is ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add other crunchy vegetables like carrots or radishes for added flavor and color.

Serving Suggestions

Celery Slaw With Lemon makes an excellent side for grilled dishes, complementing the smoky flavors beautifully. This slaw pairs particularly well with grilled chicken or fish, as the citrus cuts through the richness. For a delightful summer picnic, serve it alongside sandwiches or wraps for an added crunch and vibrancy.

Don't hesitate to enjoy this slaw as a light lunch on its own. Just top it with your favorite protein, like shredded chicken, chickpeas, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. This will turn the slaw into a well-rounded meal, loaded with flavor and textures.

Make-Ahead Tips

One of the best aspects of celery slaw is that it can be made ahead of time. In fact, letting the slaw sit for an hour or two allows the flavors to meld beautifully. However, if you're preparing it much earlier, consider storing the dressing separately until you’re ready to serve. This helps to prevent the celery from becoming too soggy and losing its crunch.

If you're thinking of scaling up for a gathering, simply double or triple the recipe proportions. Just ensure that you keep the ratios consistent, especially with the dressing, to maintain that perfect balance of flavors. When doubling the dressing, whisk the ingredients in a larger bowl to make incorporating them easier.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this slaw ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the slaw a few hours in advance. Just keep it in the refrigerator, and toss again before serving.

→ What can I serve this slaw with?

This slaw pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or even as a topping for sandwiches.

→ Can I substitute the lemon juice?

If you prefer, you can use vinegar, but lemon juice adds a unique brightness that enhances the flavors.

→ Is it possible to add more ingredients?

Absolutely! Feel free to include ingredients like apples or nuts for added flavor and texture.