Celery and Beet Salad

Name: Celery and Beet Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 medium beets, roasted and diced; 4 stalks celery, sliced; 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional); 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 tablespoon honey; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making this Celery and Beet Salad because it's a delightful combination of crunch and earthiness that brightens any meal. The colors are vibrant, and the flavors meld beautifully, making it a feast for the eyes and taste buds. I enjoy preparing it as a refreshing side dish or light lunch option. The tangy dressing enhances the natural sweetness of the beets while the celery adds a delightful crunch. It's a simple yet elegant salad that comes together in minutes.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-30T00:51:29.170Z

When I first tried this salad, I was amazed at how the fresh ingredients could shine so brightly. I thought about how simple it is to prepare yet could serve as a show-stopping addition to any dining table. Using fresh, organic beets and crunchy celery gives this dish a wholesome taste that you can feel good about eating.

I often experiment with the dressing, but I find that a simple mix of olive oil, lemon juice, and a hint of honey truly brings all the flavors to life. A dash of salt enhances everything, making it a salad I return to time and again.

Why You'll Love This Salad
Refreshing crunch from fresh celery and beets
Vibrant colors that brighten up any plate
Simple to make with minimal ingredients
Healthy and nutritious, perfect for any meal

The Harmony of Flavors

The combination of roasted beets and fresh celery creates a wonderful contrast of textures in this salad. The beets offer a sweet, earthy flavor that is complemented beautifully by the crisp, refreshing crunch of the celery. To enhance this delicious interplay, it’s essential to roast the beets properly—wrapping them in aluminum foil before placing them in the oven ensures even cooking and retains their natural sweetness. A tip I find useful is to check for doneness with a fork; they should pierce easily yet still hold their shape.

Adding red onion introduces a slight sharpness, balancing the sweetness of the beets. For a milder flavor, consider soaking the sliced onions in cold water for about 10 minutes before adding them to the salad; this can help tone down their pungency, ensuring they don’t overpower the other ingredients. By incorporating fresh parsley, which adds a vibrant green note, the overall savory depth and visual appeal of the salad are elevated, making it an even more striking dish.

Crafting the Perfect Dressing

The dressing for this salad plays a crucial role in tieing all the flavors together. The acidity from the lemon juice cuts through the rich sweetness of the roasted beets, while olive oil adds a smooth texture that helps just coat the ingredients. When whisking the dressing, be sure to mix until it’s glossy and emulsified. This not only improves mouthfeel but also ensures that the dressing adheres well to the ingredients, providing consistent flavor with every bite.

If you're looking for a sugar alternative, maple syrup can work well in place of honey, still providing that essential sweetness to balance the tart lemon. Seasoning with salt and pepper is key, but always remember to taste before serving—adjusting to your personal preference. A pinch of smoked paprika can also add a subtle depth and warmth to the dressing, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the salad.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious salad:

Salad Ingredients

2 medium beets, roasted and diced
4 stalks celery, sliced
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Dressing Ingredients

3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon honey
Salt and pepper to taste

Combine all ingredients in a large bowl for a fresh and vibrant salad.

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your salad:

Prepare the Beets

If you haven't done so yet, roast the beets in aluminum foil at 400°F (200°C) for about 45 minutes or until tender, then let them cool before dicing.

Mix the Salad Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the diced beets, sliced celery, red onion, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped parsley.

Whisk the Dressing

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

Combine and Serve

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Serve immediately and enjoy the freshness!

Enjoy your vibrant and nutritious Celery and Beet Salad!

Pro Tips

For an added flavor kick, try adding sliced apples or nuts like walnuts for an extra crunch.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you want to prepare this salad ahead of time, consider storing the dressing separately from the salad ingredients. This keeps the celery crisp and prevents the beets from discoloring the other veggies. You can roast and dice the beets a day in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will stay fresh for about three to four days. The salad itself is best enjoyed the same day it's made, but the components can easily be prepped ahead.

As for leftovers, this salad can be refrigerated for up to two days, although the celery may lose some of its crunch. If you notice the salad becoming a bit soggy, an additional sprinkle of fresh parsley right before serving can add a burst of freshness. Consider serving it over a bed of mixed greens for a more substantial meal the following day.

Variations to Explore

Feel free to customize this salad according to your preferences! For added protein, consider incorporating chickpeas or grilled chicken breast, turning it into a satisfying main course. You can also substitute the feta cheese with goat cheese for a creamier texture or leave it out entirely for a vegan-friendly version. If you want a bit of sweetness, try adding diced apple or pear for a fun twist on flavors.

Experimenting with nuts can also elevate this salad—walnuts or pecans add a delightful crunch and richness. Toast them lightly in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant for an enhanced flavor. Also, consider using different herbs, such as mint or cilantro, to switch up the taste profile based on the season or your personal mood.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned beets instead of roasted?

Yes, canned beets are a great time-saver. Just rinse and drain them before adding to the salad.

→ How long does this salad last in the fridge?

It's best enjoyed fresh but can last up to 2 days in the fridge. Just keep the dressing separate until serving.

→ Can I make this salad vegan?

Absolutely! Simply omit the feta cheese or use a plant-based alternative.

→ What can I substitute for honey in the dressing?

Maple syrup or agave nectar works well as a substitute for honey, providing a similar sweetness.