Celery salad

Celery Salad with Mayonnaise – a delicious and healthy recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4

Here’s a recipe that will bring a touch of freshness and flavor to your meals, perfect as an appetizer or side dish! Celery salad with mayonnaise is an excellent choice for a balanced diet, being not only tasty but also full of nutrients.

The history of this recipe is lost in the mists of time, but it is known that salads have been consumed since ancient times, bringing together fresh ingredients and natural flavors. This simple yet flavorful salad combines the crunchy texture of celery with the creaminess of mayonnaise, and the accents of olives complete the dish perfectly.

Ingredients needed:
- 1 medium celery (approximately 300 g)
- 1 large carrot
- 100 g pitted olives (choose green or black olives, depending on your preference)
- 2 eggs (one boiled and one raw)
- 400 ml oil (sunflower oil or extra virgin olive oil)
- 1 tablespoon mustard (for an extra flavor)
- salt to taste
- optional: fresh herbs (parsley, dill or chives) for an extra touch of freshness

Step by step:

1. Boil the egg: Start by boiling one egg. Place it in a pot with cold water and let it boil for 8-10 minutes. Once boiled, let it cool under cold running water, then peel it.

2. Prepare the vegetables: Peel the celery. Use a large grater to shred it into thin, crunchy strips. Do the same with the carrot, which will add a touch of sweetness and color to your salad.

3. Mayonnaise: In a bowl, place the yolk of the boiled egg and add a raw yolk. Using a fork, start mixing gently. Gradually add the oil, continuing to mix in one direction to emulsify the mixture. When the mayonnaise becomes creamy and thick, add a tablespoon of mustard and mix well.

4. Combine the ingredients: In a large bowl, place the shredded celery and carrot. Pour the prepared mayonnaise over the vegetables and mix well until all ingredients are evenly coated. Add the sliced olives and salt to taste.

5. Garnishing and serving: If desired, you can add finely chopped fresh herbs for an extra touch of freshness and an appetizing appearance. This salad can be served immediately or left to chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to intensify the flavors.

Helpful tips:
- Mayonnaise: It’s recommended to prepare a larger quantity of mayonnaise, as celery tends to absorb liquid. If you notice that the salad becomes dry, add a little more mayonnaise before serving.
- Vegan option: You can replace the egg with tofu or a vegan mayonnaise made from avocado for an animal product-free option.
- Flavorful combinations: Experiment by adding chopped nuts or seeds for an extra texture and nutrients. You can also try adding a splash of lemon juice to bring a balance of acidity.

Nutritional benefits:
Celery is a vegetable rich in water, with a very low calorie content, making it ideal for diets. It is an excellent source of fiber, vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like potassium and folate. Carrots provide a significant amount of beta-carotene, while olives are rich in healthy fats and antioxidants.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use another type of oil for the mayonnaise? Yes, you can use extra virgin olive oil for a stronger flavor, but be careful not to make it too bitter.
- How can I store the salad? The salad can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days, but it is recommended to consume it fresh to maintain its crunchy texture.
- What drinks pair well with this salad? A dry white wine or a citrus cocktail can perfectly complement this dish, bringing a note of freshness.

This celery salad with mayonnaise is not just a simple recipe, but an explosion of flavors and textures, ideal for any occasion. Try it and let yourself be inspired by its taste and versatility. Enjoy your meal!