This Ina Garten Celery Salad recipe is a crisp and refreshing side dish, which includes celery and fresh herbs. It’s a light, foolproof recipe, ready in just 15 minutes.
Jump to RecipeIna Garten Celery Salad Ingredients
- 6 stalks celery, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley leaves, roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup walnuts, toasted and chopped
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, shaved
- 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

How To Make Ina Garten Celery Salad
-
Prep the celery:
Wash and thinly slice celery stalks on the diagonal for an elegant look. -
Chop the herbs:
Roughly chop parsley and finely chop dill. Add to a large bowl with celery. -
Toast the walnuts:
In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast walnuts for 2–3 minutes until fragrant. Let cool, then chop. -
Make the dressing:
Whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. -
Assemble the salad:
Pour dressing over celery and herbs. Toss gently to coat. -
Finish and serve:
Top with toasted walnuts and shaved Parmesan before serving.

Recipe Tips
-
How to make celery extra crisp:
Soak celery in ice water for 10 minutes, then dry thoroughly before slicing. -
Can I use other nuts?
Yes, almonds or hazelnuts make great substitutes for walnuts. -
How to shave Parmesan easily:
Use a vegetable peeler to get thin, delicate slices. -
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Assemble herbs, celery, and dressing separately, then combine just before serving. -
How to make it heartier:
Add chickpeas or white beans for extra protein and texture.
What To Serve With Celery Salad
This refreshing salad pairs well with:
- Grilled chicken or fish
- Pasta dishes like lemon capellini or spaghetti aglio e olio
- Roast beef or lamb
- A charcuterie board as a crisp, herbal side

How To Store Celery Salad
Refrigerate:
Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Note that celery will lose its crunch over time.
Make ahead:
Slice celery and chop herbs up to 1 day in advance. Store separately and dress right before serving.
Celery Salad Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
FAQs
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Fresh herbs are strongly recommended for best flavor, but you can substitute with 1 teaspoon dried parsley and dill.
Is this salad vegetarian?
Yes, it’s vegetarian-friendly. For a vegan option, omit Parmesan or use a dairy-free substitute.
Can I add fruit to this salad?
Yes, thinly sliced apples or pears pair beautifully with celery and walnuts.
What can I use instead of Parmesan?
Try pecorino romano for a sharper taste or feta for a tangier flavor.
How far in advance can I make this?
Up to 1 day ahead if stored separately. Dress right before serving to keep it crisp.
Try More Recipes:
- Ina Garten Tarragon Chicken Salad Recipe
- Ina Garten Tarragon Potato Salad Recipe
- Ina Garten Fiesta Corn And Avocado Salad Recipe
Ina Garten Celery Salad Recipe
Course: Salads6
servings15
minutes180
kcalA crisp, refreshing celery salad with fresh herbs, toasted walnuts, and shaved Parmesan—Ina Garten’s simple yet elegant take on a light side dish.
Ingredients
-
6 celery stalks, thinly sliced
-
1/4 cup parsley, chopped
-
1/4 cup dill, chopped
-
1/4 cup walnuts, toasted and chopped
-
1/2 cup Parmesan, shaved
-
3 tbsp lemon juice
-
1/4 cup olive oil
-
1/2 tsp salt
-
1/4 tsp black pepper
Directions
- Slice celery and chop herbs. Place in a bowl.
- Toast walnuts in a dry skillet, chop, and set aside.
- Whisk lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper for dressing.
- Toss celery and herbs with dressing.
- Top with walnuts and Parmesan before serving.
