Pickled celery is a great way to preserve vegetables and keep them fresh for longer. It’s also a fun and tasty side dish for many different meals. You can use this method to add extra flavor and texture to tuna salad, pasta, egg salad, or even on charcuterie platters.

This easy refrigerator version of pickled celery requires no canning equipment and comes together quickly and easily. It’s made using a vinegar, salt, and sugar brine that’s heated on the stove top and poured over diced celery before being allowed to “pickle” in the fridge.

Before pickling, be sure to buy high-quality celery that is crisp and bright green with no signs of wilting or soft spots. You want to avoid soft or spoiled celery, which will be tough and bland in flavor.

Make sure to wash the stalks thoroughly before pickling so you get the best flavor from this healthy side dish. Don’t be afraid to try a variety of vinegars or spices; it’s up to you to find the flavor profile that’s right for you.

The most important thing is to get the correct ratio of vinegar and water. The ideal amount is 1 part vinegar to one part water. You can play around with the ratio and add more or less vinegar, sugar, or salt for added flavor.

You should also remember to let the celery soak in the brine for at least an hour in order to achieve the best taste possible. You can do this in the refrigerator or on the counter, but be sure to stir every few hours so it doesn’t become too cold and lose its flavor.

Another great tip is to pickle celery with a variety of other vegetables so you get a balanced, well-rounded flavor that’s full of nutrients and antioxidants. Crunchy cucumbers, radishes, and asparagus are all good complements to the sweet-and-sour celery in this recipe.

Besides being a simple, delicious side dish, this recipe is also a great way to get kids and adults alike to eat more veggies! A cup of this easy side dish is only 10 calories per serving, which makes it a low-calorie, low-fat option that’s incredibly filling.

It’s perfect as a snack on its own, in sandwiches and grain bowls, and can be served as a garnish for hot wings or charcuterie boards!

You can add a touch of zesty flavor to this simple celery side dish by adding chopped garlic and red pepper flakes. You can also add sprigs of dill or other herbs for additional flavor and texture.

This easy salad is a great addition to lunches or dinners, and it can be made in advance for a quick weeknight meal. It can be served at room temperature or chilled in the fridge to enjoy for up to a month. The flavors and textures will only improve with time, so be sure to give this recipe a try!