Celery Salad with Tahini Dressing

Name: Celery Salad with Tahini Dressing
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups of celery, chopped; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup tahini; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Water to thin the dressing

Highlighted under: Fresh & Wholesome Recipes

I absolutely love making this Celery Salad with Tahini Dressing for its refreshing crunch and nutty flavor. The combination of crisp celery, fresh herbs, and creamy tahini really elevates this simple salad. It’s my go-to dish when I want something quick yet satisfying, and it pairs wonderfully with almost any meal. Plus, it's a fantastic way to enjoy the health benefits of celery in a vibrant and flavorful way. I can't wait for you to try it!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-29T12:40:45.065Z

When I first stumbled upon the idea of pairing tahini with celery, I was skeptical about the flavors working together. However, I gave it a try, and the outcome was astonishing! The creaminess of the tahini dressing complemented the crunch of the celery perfectly, creating a texture that I couldn't resist. I also love adding a splash of lemon juice for brightness. It’s such a simple yet delightful way to refresh my salad game.

One time, I served this salad at a small gathering, and it was a hit! Everyone loved how easy it was to make and how vibrant the colors looked on the table. I realized that using fresh herbs, like parsley or dill, truly enhances the flavor, making it both delicious and visually appealing. I recommend preparing the dressing in advance for a quick assembly when you're ready to serve!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Crunchy texture that boosts your daily vegetable intake
Nutty tahini dressing adds a unique flavor twist
Quick and easy to make for any occasion

      

Understanding the Ingredients

Celery is the star of this salad, offering a juicy crunch and plenty of vitamins like K and C. When selecting celery, look for firm, crisp stalks with a vibrant green color. Avoid any with discoloration or wilting. The cherry tomatoes add a sweet acidity that complements the celery's earthiness, while red onions lend a sharp bite. Fresh parsley not only enhances the flavor but also boosts the nutritional profile with antioxidants.

The tahini dressing is what truly brings this salad to life. Tahini, made from ground sesame seeds, provides healthy fats and a creamy texture. It’s essential to mix the tahini well before use, as it can separate in the jar. If necessary, stir it vigorously or even warm it slightly to ensure a smooth consistency when combined with other dressing ingredients.

Preparation Tips

Chopping the celery uniformly can enhance the salad's presentation and ensure a consistent bite. Aim for 1/4-inch thick slices, which will provide a nice crunch. I recommend using a sharp knife for clean cuts and to minimize bruising the celery. When slicing the red onion, a mandoline can be helpful for achieving thin, even pieces, but be cautious to avoid finger accidents.

Timing is essential for the tahini dressing. When combining ingredients, add the water gradually until you reach a creamy consistency that's pourable, but not too runny. If the dressing becomes overly thin, you can always whisk in a touch more tahini to bring back its richness. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed; a pinch of smoked paprika can also add a delightful layer of flavor.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Celery Salad

Salad Ingredients

4 cups of celery, chopped
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Tahini Dressing Ingredients

1/4 cup tahini
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Water to thin the dressing

Prepare Your Ingredients

Instructions

Make the Dressing

In a bowl, combine tahini, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well, adding water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, add the chopped celery, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and parsley. Drizzle the tahini dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients.

Serve

Plate the salad and enjoy immediately, or refrigerate for up to an hour to let the flavors meld.

Enjoy Your Meal!

Pro Tips

For added crunch, consider tossing in some sunflower seeds or nuts. Adjust the tahini dressing to your taste by adding different spices like cumin or paprika.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

This Celery Salad with Tahini Dressing can be prepared a few hours in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until you're ready to serve. This not only helps maintain the crisp texture of the celery and tomatoes but also allows the salad to stay fresh. You can refrigerate the salad components in sealed containers to keep them from wilting.

Serving this salad is versatile; it pairs beautifully with grilled meats, such as chicken or fish, adding a refreshing contrast to richer flavors. You might consider serving it as a light lunch on its own or adding some quinoa or chickpeas for a more substantial meal.

Variations and Dietary Swaps

If you're looking to switch up the flavors, consider adding diced avocados or nuts like walnuts for an extra crunch and creaminess. You can also spice things up with a touch of cumin or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes in the tahini dressing for a mild kick. If tahini isn’t accessible, a sunflower seed butter works great as a substitute and keeps the nut-free option intact.

For those following specific diets, this salad can easily be adapted. To make it gluten-free, just ensure that your tahini does not cross-contaminate with gluten-rich products. Additionally, the salad is naturally vegan, allowing it to fit into a plant-based lifestyle seamlessly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the dressing in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the tahini dressing ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a week.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Leftover salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days, but it's best enjoyed fresh.

→ What can I substitute for tahini?

If you don't have tahini, you can use sunflower seed butter or almond butter as a substitute.

→ Is this salad vegan?

Absolutely! This Celery Salad with Tahini Dressing is completely vegan-friendly.