Celery Salad With Mustard Dressing

Name: Celery Salad With Mustard Dressing
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 stalks of celery, thinly sliced; 1 small red onion, thinly sliced; 1 apple, diced; 1/4 cup of parsley, chopped; 2 tablespoons of whole grain mustard; 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar; 3 tablespoons of olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Balanced Wellness Meals

I absolutely love this Celery Salad With Mustard Dressing! The freshness of the celery combined with a tangy mustard dressing creates a delightful crunch that is hard to resist. I often make this salad when I want something crisp and refreshing on the table, especially during warm weather. It’s incredibly easy to prepare and serves as a perfect side dish or light lunch. Plus, it’s a great way to include more veggies in my diet without compromising on flavor.

Created by

Rebecca Mills

Last updated on 2026-02-01T16:49:35.737Z

When I first tried this Celery Salad With Mustard Dressing, I was amazed by how simple ingredients could come together to create such a vibrant dish. I love using fresh and crunchy celery as the base, which gives the salad its signature texture. The key is in the dressing; I’ve experimented with different mustard types and found that a whole grain mustard offers the best flavor depth while keeping things interesting.

Don’t skimp on the preparation time—I’ve learned that letting the salad sit for just 10 minutes before serving allows the flavors to meld beautifully. This quick tip has transformed this salad from good to absolutely amazing! It’s also a fantastic way to use up leftover celery from other recipes.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Fresh and crunchy texture that’s both satisfying and healthy
Tangy mustard dressing adds a delightful zing
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for last-minute meals

The Role of Celery

Celery is the star of this salad, providing a fresh and crunchy base that is not only delightful to the palate but also loads of nutrients. Rich in vitamins K and C, celery helps to maintain a healthy immune system while adding a satisfying crunch that pairs beautifully with the dressing. When selecting celery, look for bright green stalks that are firm and crisp without any wilted or brown spots, as this ensures maximum freshness and flavor.

For an added twist, consider using flavored or heirloom varieties of celery, such as red or purple celery. These can introduce subtle flavor differences and a pop of color that can enhance the presentation of your salad. Regardless of the variety, be sure to thoroughly wash the celery to remove any dirt or grit, as it tends to accumulate in the grooves of the stalks.

Mustard Dressing Magic

The dressing is where this salad truly shines, as the mustard not only adds tanginess but also helps balance the sweetness of the apple. Whole grain mustard provides a rustic texture with added seeds that can enhance the visual appeal, making each bite interesting. If you prefer a smoother dressing, you can opt for Dijon mustard, which will create a creamier consistency without sacrificing flavor. To achieve the perfect emulsion, whisk the ingredients until the oil is fully incorporated and the dressing is glossy.

Feel free to adjust the acidity by increasing or decreasing the amount of apple cider vinegar based on your taste preferences. Adding a teaspoon of honey can also mellow the sharpness if desired. If you wish to prepare the dressing ahead, it can be stored in the fridge for up to a week; just remember to shake it well or whisk again before using, as separation may occur.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this refreshing salad:

Salad Ingredients

4 stalks of celery, thinly sliced
1 small red onion, thinly sliced
1 apple, diced
1/4 cup of parsley, chopped

Mustard Dressing

2 tablespoons of whole grain mustard
2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar
3 tablespoons of olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix the dressing just before serving to keep the salad crisp.

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Celery Salad:

Prepare the Vegetables

In a large bowl, combine the sliced celery, red onion, diced apple, and chopped parsley.

Make the Mustard Dressing

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

Combine and Serve

Pour the mustard dressing over the vegetable mixture and toss until everything is well coated. Let it sit for 10 minutes before serving for the best flavor.

This salad is perfect for a quick lunch or as a side dish for dinner.

Pro Tips

Try adding some toasted nuts or seeds for extra crunch and nutrition.

Make-Ahead Tips

This Celery Salad with Mustard Dressing can be prepped in advance, making it a convenient option for busy days or meal prep. You can slice the celery, onion, and apple up to two days ahead of time. Store the prepared veggies in an airtight container in the fridge; this keeps them fresh and crunchy. Just make sure to add the dressing right before serving to maintain the vibrant texture and prevent sogginess.

If you're anticipating leftovers, consider keeping the dressing separate. This approach preserves the salad's crispness, allowing you to enjoy the same fresh taste the next day. For a quick lunch, simply toss the leftover salad with a handful of mixed greens or use it as a filling in a wrap.

Serving Suggestions

This salad makes a fantastic side dish for grilled meats, particularly chicken or fish, as the tangy dressing complements the savory flavors beautifully. To turn it into a complete meal, consider adding cooked quinoa or chickpeas for protein, making it a hearty options for lunch or dinner. Additionally, you can garnish with toasted nuts or seeds to add extra crunch and healthy fats.

If you're hosting a gathering, serving this salad in a chilled bowl can elevate its appeal. Add a sprinkle of lemon zest on top for an aromatic touch that ties in with the mustard dressing. With its bright colors and fresh flavors, this salad can brighten up any spread, leaving your guests impressed.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other vegetables in this salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, carrots, or cucumbers for additional color and crunch.

→ How long does this salad keep in the fridge?

The salad is best eaten fresh, but it can last up to 2 days in the fridge. Just be aware that the celery may lose some crunch.

→ Can I make the mustard dressing ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dressing a day ahead. Just store it in the fridge and give it a good shake before using.

→ Is there a vegan option for the dressing?

Yes! The dressing is already vegan-friendly. Just make sure to use a mustard that doesn’t contain animal products.