Celery Salad With Tahini

Name: Celery Salad With Tahini
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups of chopped celery; 1/2 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/4 cup of red onion, finely chopped; 1/4 cup of parsley, finely chopped; 1/4 cup of tahini; 2 tablespoons of lemon juice; 1 tablespoon of olive oil; 1 garlic clove, minced; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Fresh Healthy Meals Inspiration

I recently whipped up a refreshing Celery Salad with Tahini that has completely transformed my approach to salads. This dish captures the crunch of fresh celery, blended perfectly with a rich tahini dressing. It's not only healthy but incredibly satisfying too. I love how the sesame flavor in tahini marries the crispness of the celery, making every bite a delightful experience. If you're looking for something light yet flavorful, this salad is a must-try!

Created by

Pippa Lawson

Last updated on 2026-02-01T20:45:38.014Z

When I first tried the combination of tahini and celery, I was fascinated by how these simple ingredients created such a rich and satisfying flavor profile. It quickly became a staple in my meals, especially during the warm months. The creaminess of tahini balances out the crispness of the celery, creating a dish that feels both light and indulgent.

To enhance the flavors, I play around with additional spices and herbs. A sprinkle of cumin or coriander can take it to the next level, while a squeeze of lemon adds a zesty touch. The versatility of this salad allows it to pair well with a variety of main dishes!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Crisp and refreshing crunch from the celery
Creamy tahini dressing that adds depth of flavor
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for any occasion

Unlocking the Flavors of Tahini

Tahini serves as the star of this dressing, providing a creamy texture while contributing a nutty depth to the salad. When choosing tahini, I recommend looking for a high-quality, fresh-made variety, as older tahini can become bitter. Make sure to stir the tahini well before use, as the oil often separates. The combination of tahini with lemon juice not only enhances the flavor but also gives a slight tang that brightens the dish.

To customize the dressing to your taste, feel free to experiment with the proportions. If you prefer a thinner dressing, add a splash of water or more olive oil until you reach your desired consistency. The acidity of the lemon juice can also be adjusted; try a little more if you enjoy a zesty kick or reduce it for a mellower flavor.

Mastering the Salad Prep

Preparing your celery is key to achieving that satisfying crunch. When chopping celery, aim for uniform pieces about half an inch thick to ensure even distribution in your salad. Look for crisp, bright green stalks that snap easily; limp celery won’t provide the desired texture. For added flavor, consider soaking the chopped celery in cold water for about 10-15 minutes prior to mixing, which can enhance its crunchiness.

Cherry tomatoes add a burst of sweetness and color to the salad. Make sure to cut them in half to encourage their juices to mingle with the tahini dressing, creating a cohesive flavor profile. If you can find heirloom varieties, their unique flavors and colors will make your salad even more visually appealing.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious celery salad:

Salad Ingredients

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

Tahini Dressing Ingredients

1/4 cup of tahini
2 tablespoons of lemon juice
1 tablespoon of olive oil
1 garlic clove, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

These ingredients come together to create a salad that is not only delicious but also nutritious!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Celery Salad with Tahini:

Prepare the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the chopped celery, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and parsley. Toss everything gently to ensure an even mix.

Make the Dressing

In a separate small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.

Combine

Pour the tahini dressing over the salad and toss until the vegetables are evenly coated. Adjust seasoning if needed.

Serve

Transfer the salad to a serving dish and enjoy immediately for the best flavor!

This salad is best served fresh, but it can be stored in the fridge for a few hours if necessary.

Pro Tips

For added texture, feel free to throw in some toasted nuts or seeds such as sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds. They not only add crunch but also enhance the flavor profile.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Celery Salad with Tahini is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. If preparing in advance, consider storing the tahini dressing separately to maintain the salad's crunch. Simply toss the salad components together just before serving to avoid any sogginess.

To prep ahead, you can wash and chop the celery and other vegetables up to a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container with a damp paper towel to keep them crisp. If you’re holding off on the dressing, it can last in your fridge for about a week, making it easy to whip up a quick meal any time.

Adding Variations

This salad is wonderfully versatile. To switch things up, consider adding chickpeas for a boost of protein and fiber, or including grated carrots for a pop of color and sweetness. Nuts or seeds, like sunflower seeds, can also add crunch and are a tasty way to incorporate healthy fats.

For those who want a bit of spice, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes or add diced jalapeños. You can also swap the parsley for arugula or spinach for a slightly different flavor profile. Feel free to get creative; your variations can make each preparation unique!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad and dressing separately and combine them just before serving for the freshest taste.

→ What can I substitute for tahini?

You can use sunflower seed butter or almond butter as a substitute, though the flavor will differ slightly.

→ Is this salad vegan?

Absolutely! All the ingredients used in this salad are plant-based.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to incorporate bell peppers, cucumbers, or even grated carrots for more color and nutrition.