| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 0 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 325 | 20g | 2.5g | 28g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 16g | 6g | 7g | 0.2g |
If there’s one thing that warms my Southern belle heart more than a perfectly crisp piece of fried chicken or a tender, flaky biscuit, it’s finding ways to incorporate my deep-seated love for Southern traditions with my passion for living a healthy, vibrant life. As a native Charleston lass, my culinary style naturally weaves in elements of coastal flair and comforting Southern classics. Enter my latest obsession: the Celery Leaf and Almond Salad.
The Unexpected Charm of This Salad
Yes, you read that right – celery leaf; not stalk. This humble leaf, typically tossed to the side or ignored completely, carries a rich but subtle flavor that can genuinely uplift a salad. Paired with the comforting crunch of sliced almonds and the bright bite of citrus, this Celery Leaf and Almond Salad isn’t just a side dish – it’s a statement of how beautifully simple ingredients can come together and shine.
And let’s not forget about its phenomenal health benefits. Rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber, this salad can support your immune system and promote digestion. Would a Southern belle steer you wrong?
A Salad for All Seasons
But here’s what I love most about this recipe: its versatility. This salad’s refreshing tang doubles as a summer-time staple when you’re yearning for something light and vibrant. But the sweet cranberries and hearty almonds bring a touch of the warm flavors that we associate with fall or winter.
As for pairing, this salad has the knack for slipping seamlessly alongside a variety of dishes. Consider pairing it with a beautiful grilled chicken breast, and let the citrus notes of the salad tangle delightfully with the smoky chicken flavors. Alternatively, this salad could strike a wonderful balance when served with a hearty plate of shrimp and grits, bringing a vibrant contrast to the creamy, rich grits.
From taste to health benefits… from simplicity to versatility… the Celery Leaf and Almond Salad captures everything I love about creating and sharing recipes. It’s a recipe that makes me feel right at home, no matter where life takes me.
What You’ll Need
- 3 cups fresh celery leaves
- 1 1/2 cups sliced almonds
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 large oranges, peeled and sectioned
- 1 cup dried cranberries
Method
Step One
Begin by washing the fresh celery leaves thoroughly. After they are clean, firmly pat them dry to remove any excess moisture.
Step Two
Proceed to a dry sauté pan, and toast the sliced almonds over medium heat until they’re slightly browned and fragrant. Keep a close eye on them as they can burn quickly. Remove them from heat and allow them to cool.
Step Three
In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, extra-virgin olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper. This will serve as your salad dressing.
Step Four
In a large salad bowl, combine the washed and dried celery leaves, the cooled sliced almonds, peeled and sectioned oranges, and the dried cranberries.
Step Five
Pour the salad dressing mixture over the salad in the bowl, and toss it all together gently until everything is evenly coated.
Step Six
Season it once more if necessary with a bit of salt and pepper to taste, give a final gentle toss and serve your delicious Celery Leaf and Almond Salad.
