How to Eat Celery: Tips for Preparing, Cooking and Enjoying this Nutritious Vegetable

Introduction

Celery is a crunchy, low-calorie vegetable that can be used in a range of dishes, from salads and soups to stir-fries and smoothies. It has a mild flavor, making it an ideal base for a variety of recipes. Not only is celery tasty, but it also packs a nutritional punch. According to the USDA, one cup of chopped celery contains 6.6 grams of dietary fiber, 4.8 milligrams of vitamin K, and 2.7 milligrams of vitamin C. Eating celery can also help keep you hydrated as it is made up of 95 percent water! Read on to learn about the many ways to enjoy this nutritious vegetable.

Prepare Celery as a Raw Snack

Eating celery raw is an easy way to add crunch and extra nutrients to any meal. To prepare, first wash the celery stalks with cold running water. Then cut off the ends and discard them. Slice the celery into sticks or chop into small pieces. For added flavor, try topping celery sticks with peanut butter, hummus, or nut butter. You can also dip them in salsa or guacamole. For a sweeter snack, top with cream cheese and raisins or yogurt and walnuts.

Make Celery the Base for Salads and Soups

Celery makes a great addition to salads and soups. To prepare it for salads, use a sharp knife to slice the celery into thin strips, discarding the tough end. For soups, chop the celery into small cubes. When adding celery to a recipe, consider the other ingredients—if they are bold and flavorful, use less celery so as not to overpower the dish. Try combining celery with apples and walnuts for a crunchy salad, or add it to a creamy potato soup for a hint of texture.

Roast Celery to Add Crunch to Meals

Roasting celery brings out its natural sweetness and adds crunch to any meal. Preheat the oven to 400°F. Cut the celery stalks into 1-inch pieces and spread them onto a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast for 10–15 minutes, flipping the pieces halfway through, until lightly browned. Serve as a side dish or mix into your favorite grain bowl. Roasted celery pairs especially well with other root vegetables like carrots and sweet potatoes.

Dice Celery and Add to Stir-Fries

Stir-frying celery gives it a slightly smoky flavor that pairs nicely with other vegetables and proteins. Start by cutting the celery into small dice. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of oil. Once the oil is hot, add the diced celery and cook until softened, about two minutes. Then add your chosen ingredients—try broccoli, red bell peppers, mushrooms, and tofu for a complete meal. Serve with cooked rice or noodles.

Use Celery in Smoothies for Added Fiber and Nutrients

Smoothies are an easy way to get more fruits and vegetables into your diet. Adding celery to your smoothie can increase the fiber and nutrient content without sacrificing flavor. Start by washing and chopping the celery into small pieces. Place the celery and your other chosen ingredients into a blender and blend until smooth. Popular combinations include celery, banana, spinach, and almond milk. For a sweeter smoothie, try celery, pineapple, mango, and coconut milk.

Transform Celery into Chips for a Healthy Alternative to Potato Chips

If you’re looking for a healthier alternative to potato chips, try making celery chips. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Thinly slice the celery stalks and arrange them on the baking sheet in a single layer. Brush the slices with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Bake for 12–15 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until lightly golden. Cool the chips before serving. For a twist, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese or garlic powder before baking.

Conclusion

Celery is a versatile and nutritious vegetable that can be enjoyed in a range of dishes. Whether you prefer it raw, roasted, stir-fried, blended, or baked, there are plenty of ways to work celery into your meals. By following the tips outlined above, you can make the most of celery’s crunch and nutrient content. So grab some celery and get creative in the kitchen!