Celery Slaw With Lemon

Name: Celery Slaw With Lemon
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 stalks of celery, thinly sliced; 1 medium carrot, grated; 1/4 cup of fresh lemon juice; 1 tablespoon of honey; 2 tablespoons of olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Balanced Healthy Meals Favorites

I love whipping up this vibrant Celery Slaw With Lemon when I want a refreshing, crunchy side dish that complements any meal. The zestiness of fresh lemon brightens the tender celery, and the combination is simply delightful. It’s quick to prepare and not only adds a pop of color to the table but also offers a burst of flavor that can elevate the simplest of dishes. Trust me, this slaw becomes a fast favorite in my home for family gatherings and casual dinners alike.

Created by

Beatrice Holloway

Last updated on 2026-02-15T04:21:35.983Z

When I first stumbled upon this Celery Slaw recipe, I was blown away by how such simple ingredients could create a dish bursting with flavor. The crunch of the celery paired with the bright acidity of the lemon juice is incredibly refreshing. Whenever I make this slaw, I love to experiment by adding a sprinkle of nuts or seeds for an added texture. This dynamic pairing is a new staple at all my summer barbecues.

One valuable tip I discovered while making this slaw is to let it sit for a few minutes after mixing. Allowing the lemon juice to marinate with the celery enhances the flavors and slightly softens the crunch without losing that satisfying bite. It’s a perfect side dish for grilled meats or a light lunch!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Fresh, zesty flavor that brightens your meal
Crunchy texture that adds interest to any plate
Quick and easy preparation for busy days

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh ingredients is crucial for achieving the vibrant flavor of this Celery Slaw With Lemon. The celery should be crisp and firm, without any signs of wilting, to provide that satisfying crunch. When selecting lemons, opt for those that feel heavy for their size; they typically contain more juice. Freshly squeezed lemon juice elevates the dish, offering a bright acidity that enhances the earthiness of the celery and sweetness of the honey. Avoid bottled lemon juice as it can have a less vibrant flavor and may even carry preservatives.

Carrots, while optional, add a natural sweetness and a burst of color that make this slaw visually appealing. Choose organic carrots if possible, as they tend to have a more intense flavor. For added convenience, pre-grated carrots can save time, but freshly grated ones are far superior in texture and taste. A mandoline slicer can be useful for achieving uniformly thin celery slices, ensuring they mix well with the dressing.

Tips for Perfecting the Dressing

The dressing for this slaw is simple yet impactful, balancing tanginess with sweetness. When mixing the ingredients, start by whisking the lemon juice with honey until they are fully combined. This helps dissolve the honey more easily, avoiding clumps in the final dressing. An immersion blender can also be helpful for achieving a silky consistency if you prefer a smoother dressing. Adding extra virgin olive oil enhances the flavor; look for one with a fruity note to complement the acidity of the lemon.

Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper according to your taste. Remember that a little salt can enhance the flavors of the lemon and honey, making each bite more dynamic. If you find the dressing too tart, simply add a bit more honey to balance it out. Allow the dressing to sit for a few minutes before pouring it over the vegetables; this brief resting time helps the flavors meld beautifully.

Ingredients

Gather up the following ingredients for this delicious slaw:

Ingredients

4 stalks of celery, thinly sliced
1 medium carrot, grated
1/4 cup of fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon of honey
2 tablespoons of olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix the ingredients well to create a vibrant slaw!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your slaw:

Prepare the Vegetables

In a large bowl, combine the sliced celery and grated carrot.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, honey, olive oil, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Combine and Serve

Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss everything together until well coated. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving.

Enjoy your flavorful Celery Slaw as a refreshing side dish!

Pro Tips

For an extra crunch, consider adding toasted sunflower seeds or sliced almonds to the slaw before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Celery Slaw With Lemon can serve as a versatile side dish that pairs well with grilled meats, fish, or even a light pasta. Its zesty profile can complement the richness of roasted chicken or the smokiness of barbecued ribs. To create a more substantial salad, consider adding toppings like roasted nuts or seeds for extra crunch, or even crumbled feta for a creamy counterbalance.

For a refreshing lunch option, layer the slaw in a wrap with sliced turkey or roasted veggies. The slaw’s bright acidity can cut through richer flavors, making each bite more enjoyable. If you’re preparing this dish for a picnic or potluck, consider serving it in a mason jar for easy transport, layering the slaw with the dressing at the bottom to keep it fresh until ready to serve.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This slaw is perfect for make-ahead meals. The flavors actually deepen as it sits, so feel free to prepare it a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and it will remain crisp and colorful. However, for the best texture, I recommend adding the dressing only a few hours prior to serving, especially if you are serving it later in the day, as the vegetables may begin to soften.

If you have leftovers, keep them stored in the fridge and consume them within 2-3 days for optimal freshness. You can also repurpose leftover slaw by mixing it into a grain bowl or using it as a topping for a sandwich or tacos. It adds a refreshing crunch and bright flavor, making it a great way to reduce food waste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of cabbage?

Yes, feel free to add ingredients like purple cabbage for a colorful twist!

→ How long can I store the slaw?

It's best consumed fresh but can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days in an airtight container.

→ Can I make this slaw ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients and keep them separate until ready to toss together to maintain the crunch.

→ What can I serve this slaw with?

This slaw pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish tacos, or as a topping on sandwiches.