Mediterranean Celery Salad may sound simple, but it’s the crunchy, zesty kind of salad that makes you wonder why you ever settled for plain iceberg lettuce. Picture this: crisp celery sticks, juicy tomatoes, tangy olives, and a drizzle of lemony olive oil that practically sings “Eat me!” in your mouth. It’s light, fresh, and comes together faster than you can say “healthy lunch.” Perfect for busy weekdays or as a colorful side at dinner, this salad is easy to prep, full of flavor, and gives your taste buds a Mediterranean vacation—without a plane ticket.
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Mediterranean Celery Salad
- Total Time: 10 mins
- Yield: 4 1x
Description
Crisp, fresh, and flavorful Mediterranean Celery Salad with vegetables, olives, and a tangy lemon dressing. Perfect as a side or light meal.
Ingredients
- 4–5 celery stalks, thinly sliced
- 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 1 medium cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/3 cup kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice, freshly squeezed
- 1 garlic clove, minced (optional)
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano (optional)
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
Instructions
- Wash and chop celery, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and parsley. Halve olives.
- In a small bowl, whisk olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Toss vegetables with the dressing gently. Sprinkle feta cheese on top, if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Chop vegetables right before serving for maximum crispness.
- Store dressing separately if prepping ahead.
- Customize with protein like chickpeas or grilled chicken for a hearty meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
Table of Contents
Health Benefits of Celery and Mediterranean Ingredients
Celery, the backbone of this salad, is low in calories but high in fiber, keeping you full and aiding digestion. Combined with olive oil, fresh lemon, and herbs, this salad delivers heart-healthy fats, antioxidants, and essential vitamins like A, C, and K. Olives and a sprinkle of feta add minerals such as calcium and iron, while tomatoes and cucumbers contribute hydration and antioxidants. Mediterranean Celery Salad isn’t just delicious—it’s a nutrient-packed powerhouse that supports a balanced lifestyle. Eating it regularly can improve digestion, boost immunity, and provide energy without weighing you down. It’s a guilt-free way to enjoy a fresh, vibrant dish that feels indulgent but nourishes your body at the same time.
Mediterranean Celery Salad Ingredients You’ll Need
Dressings and Flavor Boosters
The magic of Mediterranean Celery Salad comes from its dressing. High-quality extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, a pinch of sea salt, and cracked black pepper are all you need to elevate the vegetables. For a little extra tang and umami, add kalamata olives or crumbled feta cheese. Garlic or dried oregano can be sprinkled in for a more robust Mediterranean flavor. These simple pantry items transform humble celery into a vibrant, crave-worthy salad.
Ingredients Table for Mediterranean Celery Salad
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Celery stalks | 4–5 | Thinly sliced |
| Cherry or grape tomatoes | 1 cup | Halved |
| Cucumber | 1 medium | Diced |
| Red onion | 1/4 cup | Thinly sliced |
| Kalamata olives | 1/3 cup | Pitted, halved |
| Feta cheese | 1/4 cup | Crumbled (optional) |
| Fresh parsley | 2 tbsp | Chopped |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 3 tbsp | Use quality oil for flavor |
| Lemon juice | 2 tbsp | Freshly squeezed |
| Garlic | 1 clove | Minced (optional) |
| Dried oregano | 1/2 tsp | Optional, enhances Mediterranean flavor |
| Salt | 1/4 tsp | Adjust to taste |
| Black pepper | 1/4 tsp | Freshly cracked |
This ingredients table ensures your Mediterranean Celery Salad will taste fresh, balanced, and full of vibrant flavors, while keeping prep simple for beginners.
Step-by-Step Mediterranean Celery Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Chop Vegetables
Start by washing and trimming your vegetables. Slice 4–5 celery stalks thinly on a bias for extra crunch and visual appeal. Halve 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, dice 1 medium cucumber, and thinly slice 1/4 cup red onion. Chop 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley and, if using, pit and halve 1/3 cup kalamata olives. Placing all ingredients in a large mixing bowl ensures you can combine them evenly later. This prep step is key because evenly sized vegetables make each bite consistent, crisp, and colorful.
Step 2: Make the Mediterranean Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice, 1 minced garlic clove (optional), 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper. Taste and adjust as needed—lemon juice brightens, olive oil adds richness, and garlic or oregano gives it that authentic Mediterranean flair. Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss gently until all ingredients are evenly coated.
Step 3: Toss, Serve, and Garnish
Once the salad is coated with dressing, sprinkle 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese over the top if desired. Toss lightly again to incorporate without crushing the vegetables. Serve immediately for maximum freshness and crunch. This Mediterranean Celery Salad pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, fish, or as a side at family dinners. You can also store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 24 hours—though celery is best enjoyed fresh for that signature crisp bite.
Tips for the Best Mediterranean Celery Salad
How to Keep the Celery Crisp
Celery is the heart of this salad, so keeping it crisp is essential. Start by trimming the ends and slicing just before tossing with dressing to avoid sogginess. You can also soak celery sticks in ice water for 10–15 minutes before mixing—they’ll snap and stay crunchy longer. Avoid adding salt directly to the celery too early, as it can draw out moisture and make the stalks limp. Toss the dressing with the vegetables gently and only just before serving to maintain that satisfying crunch.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Mediterranean Celery Salad is best served fresh, but you can prep some ingredients ahead. Chop the celery, cucumber, and tomatoes and store them in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Keep the dressing in a small jar and mix just before serving to avoid soggy vegetables. If you want to make a larger batch for meal prep, add the olives, feta, and herbs at the last moment. This method ensures each serving remains vibrant, crisp, and flavorful, even if prepared in advance.
Variations and Add-Ons for Mediterranean Celery Salad
Protein and Grain Options
Mediterranean Celery Salad is naturally light, but you can easily make it more filling by adding proteins or grains. Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas pair beautifully with the crisp vegetables and tangy dressing. Quinoa, farro, or couscous can turn the salad into a hearty lunch or side dish. These additions not only boost protein content but also add texture and substance, making the salad versatile for any meal.
Nuts, Seeds, and Cheese Variations
For extra crunch, sprinkle in toasted almonds, pine nuts, or sunflower seeds. They bring a nutty flavor that complements the briny olives and crisp celery. Crumbled feta cheese or goat cheese adds creaminess and a mild tang, which balances the fresh vegetables. You can even experiment with a light sprinkle of Parmesan for a sharper note. These small add-ons let you customize your Mediterranean Celery Salad to match your taste, dietary needs, or seasonal ingredients without losing its signature crispness and freshness.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mediterranean Celery Salad
Q: Can I make Mediterranean Celery Salad ahead of time?
Yes! Chop the vegetables and store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Keep the dressing in a small jar and toss everything together just before serving to maintain crispness.
Q: Can I add protein to this salad?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, chickpeas, or quinoa can be added to make the salad more filling while keeping it healthy and flavorful.
Q: How long does it stay fresh?
When stored properly in an airtight container and undressed, the vegetables stay fresh for about 1 day. Once dressed, serve immediately for best texture and taste.
Q: Can I make it vegan or dairy-free?
Yes. Simply skip feta cheese or replace it with a plant-based cheese alternative. The salad still retains its bright Mediterranean flavors.
Q: Can I adjust the dressing flavors?
Definitely. Use extra lemon for more tang, or add herbs like dill or mint to personalize the taste. Olive oil can be reduced slightly if desired.
Conclusion
Mediterranean Celery Salad proves that simple ingredients can deliver big flavor and freshness. With crisp celery, juicy tomatoes, tangy olives, and a drizzle of lemony olive oil, this salad is light, healthy, and satisfying. It works perfectly as a quick lunch, a colorful side dish for dinner, or a refreshing snack. You can customize it with proteins, grains, or nuts for added heartiness, or keep it classic for a clean, vibrant bite. Easy to prep and visually appealing, this salad brings the taste of the Mediterranean straight to your table—fresh, flavorful, and full of life.