Celery Salad With Tahini

Name: Celery Salad With Tahini
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups celery, chopped; 1/2 cup tahini; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Highlighted under: Healthy Bite Collection

I absolutely love this Celery Salad With Tahini. The crunchy texture of fresh celery paired with the creamy tahini dressing creates a delightful balance that’s both refreshing and satisfying. I often prepare this salad as a quick lunch or a side dish for dinner, and it always gets rave reviews. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for those busy days when I'm craving something healthy yet tasty. The bright flavors and simple ingredients make this a go-to recipe in my household.

Created by

Lydia Barrett

Last updated on 2026-02-01T22:29:36.081Z

When I first created this Celery Salad with Tahini, I wanted to enjoy a salad that didn’t skimp on flavor or nutrition. The addition of tahini adds a delicious creaminess while still keeping the salad light. I play around with the quantities based on my mood, sometimes adding a touch of lemon or garlic for added zest, which really elevates the dish.

One of my favorite tips is to let the salad sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows the dressing to slightly soften the celery and lets the flavors meld together beautifully. It creates a simple yet gourmet dish that even my friends who claim they don’t like celery enjoy!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Crunchy texture paired with creamy tahini dressing
Quick to prepare and perfect for busy days
Nutritious and satisfying for any meal
Versatile with the option to customize flavors

Understanding the Ingredients

Celery is the star of this salad, providing that signature crunch and freshness. When selecting celery, look for firm, vibrant green stalks with tightly packed leaves. This ensures you have the best flavor and texture in your salad. Older stalks can become limp and overly fibrous, which detracts from the overall enjoyment of the dish. For an added flavor twist, consider using a mix of traditional green celery and colorful varieties like red or purple celery.

The tahini dressing not only adds creaminess but also contributes a rich nutty flavor that elevates the dish. When choosing tahini, a high-quality, well-stirred product is essential. It should have a smooth, pourable consistency; if it's too thick, simply blend in a bit of warm water until you achieve your desired texture. For a deeper taste, try roasting the tahini lightly in a pan before using it, as this can enhance its nuttiness and complexity.

Tips for Customization and Serving

This salad is incredibly versatile. Feel free to add other ingredients such as diced apples or dried cranberries for a sweet contrast, or toss in some toasted nuts for extra crunch and protein. If you're looking for a bit of heat, a pinch of cayenne pepper or some sliced jalapeños can bring the flavor up a notch. Remember that the dressing can be adjusted based on your taste; if you prefer more acidity, a splash of vinegar can brighten it further.

When it comes to serving, I love this salad chilled for a refreshing bite. If you prepare it ahead of time, allow it to sit in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving. This resting period helps the flavors to meld beautifully. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, but be mindful that the celery may lose some crunch over time; it's best enjoyed within two days for optimal texture.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Celery Salad with Tahini.

Ingredients

4 cups celery, chopped
1/2 cup tahini
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

With these ingredients ready, we can move on to the steps!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Celery Salad with Tahini.

Prepare the Celery

Wash and chop the celery into bite-sized pieces. Make sure to remove any tough outer strings for a smoother texture.

Make the Dressing

In a mixing bowl, combine the tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and well combined. Add a little water if you prefer a thinner dressing.

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, add the chopped celery and pour the tahini dressing over it. Toss gently until the celery is evenly coated.

Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately, or let it sit for a few minutes for the flavors to meld.

Your Celery Salad with Tahini is ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try mixing in some diced apples or walnuts. They complement the celery and tahini beautifully.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

To keep this Celery Salad fresh, consider storing the dressing separately from the celery, especially if you plan to make it in advance. This prevents the celery from becoming soggy and losing its crispness. If you blend the dressing ahead of time, it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a good stir before using, as it may thicken slightly while chilling.

Should you find yourself with extra tahini dressing, it can be used in various other dishes. This dressing doubles as a delicious dip for raw vegetables or pita chips, or it can be drizzled over grilled chicken and roasted vegetables for added flavor. With its versatile nature, you’ll appreciate having some dressing leftover!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your tahini dressing turns out too thick and difficult to pour, simply whisk in a bit more water, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your preferred consistency. Conversely, if it’s too thin, adding a touch more tahini can help achieve a creamier texture. Always taste as you go to ensure the flavors are balanced based on your preferences.

Should you experience a strong bitterness from the tahini, it may have gone rancid, which can occur if it’s been open for too long. Always check the expiration date and store tahini in a cool, dark place, or refrigerate after opening. This helps to prolong its shelf life and maintain that pleasant, nutty flavor essential to your salad.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this salad a few hours ahead and store it in the refrigerator, although it's best enjoyed fresh.

→ What can I substitute for tahini?

You can use peanut butter or sunflower seed butter as alternatives, but the flavor will change slightly.

→ How long does the salad last in the fridge?

The salad is best consumed within 1-2 days. Store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.

→ Is this salad vegan?

Absolutely! All the ingredients used are plant-based and vegan-friendly.