Celery Recipe: Simple and Delicious Ideas

Celery is often overlooked as a mere crunchy addition to salads or a garnish for Bloody Marys, but this humble vegetable is incredibly versatile and can be the star of many dishes. Not only does celery bring a unique, savory crunch to your meals, it also provides health benefits like fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. In this post, we'll delve into some simple yet delicious ways to incorporate celery into your cooking, making it much more than just a sideline ingredient.

Why Choose Celery?

Nutritional Value: Celery is low in calories but high in fiber, making it great for weight management. It's also a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate and potassium.

Health Benefits: Its antioxidants help fight inflammation, while its high water content makes it hydrating. Additionally, celery can help lower blood pressure due to the compound 3-n-butylphthalide.

Versatility: Celery can be used in a variety of culinary applications, from soups to stir-fries, snacks, and even desserts.

Easy Celery Recipes

Celery, Almond, and Apple Salad

• Ingredients:
  • 4 stalks of celery, thinly sliced
  • 1 apple, cored and thinly sliced
  • ¹⁄₄ cup almonds, chopped
  • ¹⁄₄ cup goat cheese
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• Instructions:
  1. Toss celery, apple slices, and almonds in a large bowl.
  2. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  3. Drizzle dressing over the salad, crumble goat cheese on top, and serve.

🍏 Note: This salad pairs well with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.

Celery Soup

• Ingredients:
  • 8 stalks of celery, chopped
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
  • ¹⁄₂ cup heavy cream (optional)
  • Salt, pepper, and nutmeg to taste
• Instructions:
  1. Sauté onions until translucent.
  2. Add celery and potatoes, cook for 5 minutes.
  3. Add broth, bring to a boil, then simmer until vegetables are soft.
  4. Purée the soup using an immersion blender. Stir in cream if using.
  5. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg.

Celery Stir-Fry

• Ingredients:
  • 6 stalks of celery, sliced
  • 1 bell pepper, cut into strips
  • 2 carrots, julienned
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • Optional: chicken, tofu or shrimp
• Instructions:
  1. Heat sesame oil in a wok or large pan. Add garlic and stir-fry briefly.
  2. Add protein of choice, cook until just done.
  3. Add celery, bell pepper, and carrots. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes.
  4. Finish with soy sauce, stir well, and serve over rice or noodles.

Tips for Using Celery

• Store celery in the fridge crisper drawer to maintain its crispness.
• The leaves of celery can be used in salads, as a garnish, or in stocks and broths.
• If celery is limp, soak it in cold water with a squeeze of lemon for about 30 minutes to revive it.

Creative Ways to Use Celery

Celery isn’t just for traditional dishes. Here are some creative uses:

• Infused Water: Add celery, cucumber, and a bit of lemon for a refreshing drink.
• Stuffing: Use celery stalks as a vessel for dips or spreads. Cream cheese, peanut butter, or tuna salad work wonderfully.
• Juicing: Juice celery with green apples and ginger for a detox drink.

In summary, celery is far more than a mere garnish. Its crisp texture and subtle flavor make it a versatile ingredient that can enhance various dishes, from light salads to hearty soups and even innovative snacks. Incorporating celery into your meals not only adds to the nutritional value but also introduces a unique taste profile that can elevate simple recipes to something extraordinary. Whether you're looking to boost your health or explore new flavors in the kitchen, celery proves to be a delightful addition to any culinary adventure.

Can I freeze celery for later use?

+

Yes, you can freeze celery, but keep in mind that its texture will change upon thawing. Blanching it first can help maintain some crispness. Use frozen celery in cooked dishes like soups or casseroles.

How long does celery last in the fridge?

+

If stored properly in the refrigerator, celery can last up to 2-3 weeks. Wrap it in foil or store it in a plastic bag with a paper towel to keep it fresh longer.

What are some lesser-known ways to use celery?

+

Beyond traditional uses, you can make celery salt by drying out the leaves and mixing them with salt. Celery can also be used in smoothies for its high water content, or even in a celery pesto for a unique twist on the classic sauce.