Celery and Orange Salad

Name: Celery and Orange Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 stalks of celery, thinly sliced; 2 large oranges, segmented; 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped; 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped; Fresh parsley, for garnish; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar; 1 teaspoon honey; Salt and pepper, to taste

Highlighted under: Fresh Healthy Recipes

I love creating salads that are not only refreshing but also burst with vibrant flavors. This Celery and Orange Salad is one of my favorites! The crispness of the celery combined with the sweetness of fresh oranges creates a delightful contrast. It’s perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish at dinner. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, this salad is a go-to for me when I want something zesty and invigorating. Plus, the dressing is so simple, yet it brings everything together beautifully.

Created by

Lena

Last updated on 2026-01-30T02:21:28.900Z

When I first tried this salad at a friend's barbecue, I was surprised by how well the flavors complemented each other. The crunchy celery paired with sweet oranges and a light vinaigrette was a revelation! I knew I had to recreate it at home. I played around with the dressing until I found the perfect balance — it's tangy yet not overpowering, allowing the salad's natural flavors to shine.

One tip I discovered while making this salad is to slice the celery thinly and soak it in cold water for a few minutes before serving. This not only enhances its crispness but also adds a refreshing crunch that pairs beautifully with the juicy orange segments. It’s a small step that makes a big difference!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Refreshing contrast of crunchy celery and sweet, juicy oranges.
Easy and quick to make, perfect for any occasion.
Light and healthy, great for boosting your daily veggie intake.

Dressing Magic

The dressing in this Celery and Orange Salad is what truly ties all the flavors together. The combination of olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and honey not only adds brightness but also a hint of sweetness that complements the salad's main ingredients beautifully. Whisk everything together until you achieve a smooth, glossy consistency—this ensures the dressing coats every ingredient evenly. I recommend tasting as you go, adding a pinch more salt or a dash of vinegar based on your personal preference.

Using fresh, high-quality olive oil is crucial; it can significantly enhance the overall flavor of your dressing. If you're looking for a lower acidity option, consider using rice vinegar in place of apple cider vinegar for a more mellow taste. Conversely, if you enjoy a tangier dressing, lime juice can serve as an excellent substitute for a vibrant twist.

Ingredient Insights

Celery not only adds crunch but also a refreshing flavor that balances the sweetness of the oranges. When selecting celery, look for stalks that are bright green and crisp, avoiding any that appear wilted or discolored. If you want to keep your produce for a few days before making the salad, store the celery in a container with a little water to maintain its crispness.

Oranges are the star of the salad, and opting for seedless varieties allows for easier eating and handling. Navel oranges are great for their sweetness, but feel free to explore blood oranges for a unique color and flavor profile. Just make sure to enjoy the salad shortly after preparation to retain the freshness of both celery and oranges.

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

4 stalks of celery, thinly sliced
2 large oranges, segmented
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
Fresh parsley, for garnish

Dressing Ingredients

3 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon honey
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Start by washing and thinly slicing the celery. Segment the oranges, removing any seeds and white pith. Finely chop the red onion and set aside.

Make the Dressing

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

Combine the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced celery, orange segments, red onion, and walnuts. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.

Garnish and Serve

Transfer the salad to a serving dish, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy immediately!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try adding feta cheese or avocado to the salad. You can also substitute the walnuts with pecans or almonds for a different crunch.

Serving Suggestions

This Celery and Orange Salad works beautifully as a side dish or as part of a light lunch. Pair it with grilled chicken or fish for protein, and you have a nutritious meal that is filling without being heavy. Serve it over a bed of mixed greens for added bulk, or enjoy it as a standalone dish for a quick, refreshing snack.

If you're planning a picnic or outdoor gathering, consider packing the salad in a portable container and serving it chilled. The refreshing flavors of the citrus and celery can be particularly delightful on warm days, and it'll be an inviting dish that encourages everyone to hydrate.

Make-Ahead and Storage

While this salad is best served fresh to enjoy the textures, you can prepare some components ahead of time. Slice the celery and chop the onions a day in advance, storing them in airtight containers in the fridge to maintain their crunch. However, I recommend waiting to combine everything just before serving to prevent the celery from wilting and the oranges from releasing too much juice.

If you have leftovers, keep them in a sealed container in the refrigerator but consume them within a day or two for the best flavors and freshness. The dressing can also be made ahead and stored separately. Just give it a good whisk before using, as the ingredients may separate over time.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients and dressing separately ahead of time. Just combine them right before serving to keep the salad fresh.

→ What other fruits can I add to this salad?

You can try adding grapefruit, pomegranate seeds, or apples for a different fruity flavor.

→ Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Just keep the dressing separate until you're ready to eat, and the salad will stay fresh for a few days in the fridge.

→ Can I use different nuts?

Yes, you can replace walnuts with any nuts you prefer, such as almonds, pecans, or even sunflower seeds for a nut-free option.