Celery Salad with Feta

Name: Celery Salad with Feta
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups celery, sliced; 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy Light Meals

I’ve always been a fan of salads that bring crunch and flavor together, and this Celery Salad with Feta does just that! The refreshing bite of crisp celery paired with the tangy feta creates a delightful contrast. It’s a dish that I love preparing for warm days or as a side for grilled meats. Each bite bursts with freshness, and it takes just a few simple ingredients to create something so delicious and vibrant. If you’re looking for a salad that’s easy to make and packs a punch, this one is for you!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-29T23:43:27.933Z

When I first created this Celery Salad with Feta, I was inspired by the vibrant crunch of fresh vegetables in summer. What I discovered is that the combination of the crunchy celery and tangy feta really elevates a simple salad into something memorable. I recommend using high-quality feta to ensure the best flavor!

One key tip I've learned is to cut the celery at an angle; it not only looks more appealing but also adds more surface area for the dressing to cling to. This makes each bite even more flavorful, creating a salad that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Crisp celery delivers a refreshing crunch
Creamy feta adds a rich, tangy flavor
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy days

      

Ingredients Spotlight

The star of this Celery Salad is the celery itself, which not only provides crunch but also serves as a refreshing base. When selecting celery, look for firm stalks with vibrant green leaves. The leaves can be chopped and added for an extra burst of flavor. This salad benefits from the crisp texture of fresh celery, so avoid any that is limp or discolored, as it will detract from the overall dish.

Feta cheese plays a crucial role in balancing the salad's flavors. Opt for a high-quality, authentic feta, preferably brined, as it adds creaminess and a salty tang that complements the fresh ingredients. If you're looking for a lower-fat option, reduced-fat feta works well, but keep in mind that it may not be as flavorful. For a unique twist, try incorporating goat cheese or a dairy-free alternative if you have dietary restrictions.

Perfecting Your Dressing

The dressing is essential for tying the salad together, and achieving the right balance of acidity and richness can elevate your dish. Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor, as bottled varieties can taste overly processed. Whisk the olive oil and lemon juice until well combined, creating a glossy, emulsified dressing that will coat the ingredients evenly. Adjust the salt and pepper to your taste, but remember that feta is naturally salty, so start with a small pinch.

A tip I love is to let your dressing sit for a few minutes before adding it to the salad. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. If you prefer a bit of spice, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for a subtle kick, which contrasts delightfully with the refreshing celery and tangy feta.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a delightful salad:

Salad Ingredients

4 cups celery, sliced
1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

Now that you have everything ready, it's time to prepare this vibrant salad!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your salad:

Prepare the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the sliced celery, crumbled feta, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced red onion, and chopped parsley.

Dress the Salad

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve the salad immediately or chill in the refrigerator for 15 minutes for a colder version.

Enjoy this refreshing salad as a side or a light meal!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add other crunchy vegetables like radishes or bell peppers for extra flavor and color.

Make-Ahead Tips

This celery salad is an excellent make-ahead option! You can prepare the salad up to one day in advance by combining all non-dressing ingredients. However, for the best texture, wait to dress the salad until just before serving. If you're making it ahead, store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. The celery may lose some crunch over time, but the flavors will still be delicious. To revive it, simply stir in a few drops of olive oil and lemon juice before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This Celery Salad with Feta is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes. Serve it alongside grilled meats like chicken, steak, or fish for a refreshing contrast. It also shines as a light lunch on its own or as part of a picnic spread. To elevate the presentation, consider serving it in a large glass bowl, showcasing the colorful ingredients.

For those looking to mix it up, you can add diced avocado for creaminess or swap in seasonal vegetables like bell peppers or radishes for added color and crunch. Additionally, a sprinkle of toasted nuts or seeds can introduce a lovely nutty flavor and extra texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad in advance?

Yes, you can prepare it in advance, but it's best to add the dressing just before serving to keep the veggies crisp.

→ What can I substitute for feta cheese?

You can use goat cheese or a vegan feta alternative if you prefer something different.

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

Absolutely! This salad is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.

→ Can I add protein to this salad?

Yes! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas would be excellent additions for a more filling dish.