celery and peanuts

How to Make Celery and Peanut Salad: A Comprehensive Guide

Celery and peanut salad is a crisp, nutty, and refreshing dish loved for its simplicity and versatility. Here’s a detailed guide to preparing it in popular styles.

### Classic Version: Simple & Savory

Start by blanching 200g celery stalks in boiling water for 30 seconds, then immediately transfer to ice water to retain crunch. Drain and chop into 1cm pieces. For the peanuts, roast 150g raw peanuts in a pan over medium heat until golden (5–7 minutes), then let cool and roughly chop. In a bowl, mix celery, peanuts, 1 minced garlic clove, and 2 chopped green onions. For the dressing, whisk 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tsp sesame oil, ½ tsp sugar, and a pinch of salt. Pour over the salad, toss gently, and serve chilled.

### Spicy Sichuan Twist

Add heat by tossing 1 tsp chili oil and ½ tsp Sichuan peppercorn powder into the classic dressing. Top with crushed roasted peanuts and a sprinkle of cilantro for extra flavor.

### Creamy Yogurt Variation

For a lighter take, replace the soy sauce dressing with 3 tbsp plain yogurt, 1 tbsp honey, and 1 tbsp lemon juice. This creamy, tangy version pairs well with grilled chicken.

### Vegan & Gluten-Free Option

Use tamari instead of soy sauce and maple syrup instead of sugar. Add 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds for extra crunch.

Serve as a side dish, appetizer, or healthy snack—this salad is easy to customize and perfect for any season!