Crisp, cooling, and totally unexpected. Think of it as the salad you didn't realize you were craving-refreshing shaved celery, creamy slow-cooked white beans, and briny pops of olive. Tossed in a lemony shallot dressing and finished with feta and microgreens, this bowl is peak summer simplicity.
Why You'll Love Celery and White Bean Salad
This salad hits every texture note-crisp, creamy, and briny-with zero fuss. It's fresh and satisfying, perfect for lunch, a light dinner, or served alongside grilled meats or fish.
Tips and Tricks
- Shave the celery as thinly as possible using a mandolin for that perfect crisp texture.
- Soaking the celery in an ice bath gives it an extra cold crunch-don't skip this step.
- Let the beans cool slightly before mixing so they don't wilt the greens or feta.
Variations
Switch up the flavor profile depending on what you're craving or what's in your pantry. This salad is endlessly riffable.
- Add canned tuna or flaked salmon for protein.
- Use chickpeas or lentils instead of white beans for a twist.
- Swap in dill, mint, or tarragon for the parsley for a fresh herb change-up.
Substitutions
Don't worry if you're missing one or two ingredients-this salad can flex with what you've got.
- Use canned white beans (drained and rinsed) instead of dried to save time.
- Red onion or green onion can stand in for the shallot.
- If you don't have feta, try goat cheese or a few shavings of parmesan.
Best served with
- Grilled salmon or trout
- Warm crusty bread or flatbread
- A glass of crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon
- Charred broccolini or roasted carrots
How to Store Leftovers
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The celery may lose some of its crunch, but the flavors will continue to deepen. If prepping ahead, keep the microgreens and feta separate and add just before serving.
Common Questions
Can I make this salad in advance?
Yes, but wait to shave and dress the celery until just before serving so it stays crisp.
What other beans can I use instead of white beans?
Chickpeas or butter beans work great and give the salad a slightly different texture while still absorbing the lemon dressing beautifully.





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