Celery is one of those vegetables that often gets overlooked, quietly playing a supporting role in soups, stews, and stocks. But when you take a moment to actually cook celery on its own, it turns into something unexpectedly delicious.
In this article, I will instruct you how to cook celery in 3 different ways. Each method highlights a different side of celery and proves that this humble vegetable deserves more attention in your kitchen.
1. Sauteed Celery Recipe ( Yield: 4 Serving )
Sautéing is one of the fastest and most flavorful ways to cook celery. This method keeps the celery slightly crisp while infusing it with garlic, savory umami, and a bright splash of acidity. It’s perfect as a light side dish or as a base for grain bowls and stir-fries.
Ingredients
- 1 bunch celery
- 1 tbsp olive oil (or other neutral oil)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp tamari (or soy sauce)
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Prepare the celery
Wash the celery thoroughly and trim off the base and leafy tops. Slice the stalks diagonally into 1/2-inch pieces. Cutting on the diagonal increases surface area and helps the celery cook evenly.
Heat the oil
Place a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Add the olive oil and allow it to warm until it shimmers slightly, but does not smoke.
Sauté the garlic
Add the minced garlic to the pan and stir constantly for about 20–30 seconds, just until fragrant. Be careful not to let it brown, as garlic can become bitter quickly.
Cook the celery
Add the sliced celery to the skillet. Toss well to coat the pieces in oil and garlic. Cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring frequently, until the celery is tender but still has a slight bite.
Season and finish
Drizzle in the tamari (or soy sauce) and rice vinegar. Stir to combine and cook for another 1–2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Season with freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Garnish and serve
Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped parsley if using. Serve warm as a simple side dish or spoon over rice or noodles.
2. Braised Celery Recipe ( Yield: 4 Serving )
Braised celery is comforting, rich, and deeply flavorful. Slow cooking in butter and broth softens the celery completely while enhancing its natural sweetness. This classic preparation is ideal for cooler days or when you want a more substantial vegetable side.
Ingredients
- 1 bunch celery
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion (finely diced, about 1/2 cup)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt (plus more to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper (plus more to taste)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Freshly chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Prepare the celery
Clean the celery thoroughly and trim off the ends. Cut the stalks into 2-inch pieces for a heartier texture that holds up well during braising.
Sauté the onion
In a wide saucepan or deep skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft and translucent.
Add celery and seasoning
Stir in the celery pieces, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper. Toss gently to coat everything in the buttery onion mixture.
Add broth and simmer
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it cook for 20–25 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Uncover and reduce
Remove the lid and continue cooking for another 5–10 minutes, allowing excess liquid to reduce slightly. The celery should be very tender and glossy.
Adjust seasoning and serve
Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired and serve warm.
3. Oven Roasted Celery Recipe ( Yield: 4 Serving )
Oven roasting gives celery a whole new personality. High heat caramelizes the edges, concentrates flavor, and adds subtle herbal notes. This method is great if you love slightly crispy vegetables with a savory depth.
Ingredients
- 1 large bunch celery
- 1.5 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp white wine vinegar
- 1/2 tsp dried parsley
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- Salt + pepper, to taste
- Optional: 2 Tbsp crumbled blue cheese (to garnish)
Instructions
Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with oil.
Prepare the celery
Wash and dry the celery thoroughly. Trim the ends and cut the stalks into 2–3 inch pieces. Make sure the pieces are similar in size for even roasting.
Season the celery
In a large mixing bowl, toss the celery with olive oil, white wine vinegar, dried parsley, thyme, basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until evenly coated.
Arrange on baking sheet
Spread the seasoned celery out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding, as this helps the celery roast instead of steam.
Roast
Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping the celery halfway through. The edges should be lightly browned and the centers tender.
Finish and serve
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. If desired, sprinkle with crumbled blue cheese just before serving for a bold, savory finish.
Cooking celery doesn’t have to be complicated to be delicious. With just a few simple ingredients and the right technique, celery can transform into a flavorful side dish that complements everything from roasted meats to grain bowls and pasta dishes.
The next time you pick up a bunch of celery, think beyond soup bases and snack trays. Try cooking it one of these ways and discover just how versatile and satisfying celery can be when it’s given the spotlight it deserves.
