Celery and Orange Salad

Name: Celery and Orange Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 stalks of celery, thinly sliced; 2 large oranges, peeled and segmented; 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar; 1 teaspoon honey; 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Highlighted under: Healthy Living Recipes

I love a refreshing salad that combines vibrant flavors, and this Celery and Orange Salad is a perfect example. The crunchy texture of celery paired with the juicy sweetness of oranges creates a delightful contrast that I can't resist. I often serve this salad as a light appetizer or as a side dish for grilled meats. The best part? It only takes a few minutes to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or gatherings with friends.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-30T00:09:27.859Z

During one of my weekend brunches, I decided to experiment with a salad that combined different textures and flavors. The idea for the Celery and Orange Salad came to me as I was enjoying the fresh produce at my local market. The crispness of celery works beautifully with the bright citrusy notes of oranges, making it both refreshing and satisfying. It was a hit among my friends!

To enhance the salad, I occasionally add a sprinkle of toasted nuts for added crunch and a simple vinaigrette, transforming it into an even more flavorful experience. The balance of flavors comes alive when you mix them just before serving, ensuring everything stays crisp and fresh. Take my word for it; this salad will become your new favorite addition to any meal!

Why You'll Love This Salad
A refreshing blend of crisp celery and sweet oranges
Quick and easy to prepare for any occasion
Versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of mains

Understanding the Ingredients

The core ingredients of this Celery and Orange Salad—fresh celery and juicy oranges—each play a pivotal role in the overall flavor profile. Celery adds a satisfying crunch and a slightly peppery taste, which contrasts beautifully with the sweetness and acidity of the oranges. When selecting celery, look for firm stalks with bright green leaves that show no signs of wilting. Opt for oranges that are heavy for their size, indicating juiciness, and choose a variety like navel oranges for their sweetness and ease of segmentation.

Red onion introduces a mild sharpness, balancing the sweetness of the oranges and providing another layer of texture. To reduce the intensity of the onion's flavor, soak the finely chopped pieces in cold water for about 10 minutes before adding them to the salad; this will mellow their bite without compromising the overall taste. Fresh parsley contributes a burst of color and freshness, rounding out the salad. If you prefer a different herb, options like cilantro or mint could work well depending on your taste.

Techniques for Perfect Assembly

When preparing this salad, the order of operations can significantly impact both texture and presentation. To maintain the crispness of the celery, prepare all components—slicing the celery, segmenting the oranges, and chopping the onion—before assembling them in the bowl. Gently toss the salad ingredients together, ensuring the oranges remain intact, as they can easily break apart. This attention to detail creates a visually appealing dish with distinct layers of color and texture.

For the dressing, achieving the right balance is key. Whisking together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard until well combined should take about 30 seconds. This emulsion will coat the salad without making it soggy. If you prefer a tangier dressing, feel free to adjust the vinegar amount slightly. Keep in mind that the longer the dressing sits on the salad, the softer the celery will become, so serve it immediately for the best texture.

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

4 stalks of celery, thinly sliced
2 large oranges, peeled and segmented
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Dressing Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon honey
1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the sliced celery, orange segments, red onion, and parsley. Toss gently to mix.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard until well combined.

Combine and Serve

Drizzle the dressing over the salad mixture, and toss gently to coat. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately.

Pro Tips

For an added touch, consider adding toasted walnuts or almonds for a delightful crunch.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you're looking to prepare this salad in advance for a gathering, you can chop the celery and onions and prepare the dressing a few hours ahead, storing them separately in the refrigerator. Combine them with the orange segments and parsley just before serving to keep everything fresh and crunchy. The salad itself is best consumed within a few hours of dressing, but you can store leftovers for a day if necessary—just be aware that the celery will soften over time.

For meal prep, consider portioning this salad into single servings. Pack the dressing in a small container to be added just before eating to maintain the salad's crispness. This makes for an excellent addition to your lunch routine, providing a refreshing contrast to heavier dishes.

Serving Suggestions

This Celery and Orange Salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats like chicken, pork, or fish, adding a bright and refreshing note to your meal. You can also serve it alongside a cheese platter, offering a delightful balance to rich and salty cheeses. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, consider incorporating this salad into a wrap with hummus for lunch or as part of a larger spread at a picnic.

For variations, feel free to add thinly sliced radishes for extra crunch, or toss in a handful of nuts like walnuts or almonds for added texture and healthy fats. You could even sprinkle some crumbled feta cheese on top for a touch of creaminess that complements the salad's vibrant flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

While the salad is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and mix them just before serving.

→ What variations can I make to this recipe?

You can add ingredients like avocado, feta cheese, or even some nuts for extra flavor and texture.

→ Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients and store them separately, then combine them on the day you plan to eat.

→ What can I serve this salad with?

This salad pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or simply as a light lunch on its own.