Celery Seed Recipes

Cooking with Celery Seed

One of those humble pantry staples that makes an ordinary meal extraordinary is celery seed. Its strong, earthy, slightly bitter taste brings depth and interest to dishes ranging from light salads to rich stews. The recipes featured on this page have been selected for their versatility in showcasing celery seed and for their ability to encourage you to try it in your own cooking.

Every recipe is easy to make, requires easy-to-find ingredients, and is perfect for any skill level**. Whether you're preparing a side dish for an impromptu backyard barbecue or seeking an interesting homemade salad dressing, celery seed is sure to become your new favorite secret ingredient.

To get the best results, remember that when working with celery seed, it is essential to taste as you go**. Its strong flavor can make a big difference with even slight changes, so it is best to use fresh, quality seeds for optimal flavor. Once you get the hang of it, don't be afraid to get creative!

Classic Celery Seed Coleslaw

This creamy and tangy coleslaw recipe is a crowd-pleasing classic. What sets this recipe apart from other traditional mayonnaise-based coleslaw recipes is the distinctive savoury taste of the celery seed. It is best served with grilled meats, pulled pork sandwiches, or fish tacos, and it keeps for up to three days in the refrigerator.

Ingredients

• 4 cups shredded green cabbage
• 1 cup shredded red cabbage
• 1 large carrot, grated
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon celery seed
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded green cabbage, red cabbage, and grated carrot.
2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, celery seed, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss thoroughly until all of the vegetables are evenly coated.
4. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the flavours to meld and the celery seed to fully release its aroma.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving. Add a little more vinegar for extra tang or a pinch more sugar for sweetness.

Makes 6 servings. Prep time: 15 minutes. Chill time: 30 minutes.

Creamy Celery Seed Potato Salad

This is a classic potato salad that is commonly served at picnics and potluck dinners during the summer. It derives its distinctive taste from celery seed, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar. This is a rich and satisfying dish without being too heavy. It also has little pops of flavor from the celery seed in every bite. This recipe is best made with waxy potatoes, such as Yukon Gold or red potatoes.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs (about 900g) Yukon Gold potatoes, scrubbed
• 3 large hard-boiled eggs, roughly chopped
• 2 stalks celery, finely diced
• ¼ cup red onion, finely diced
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1¼ teaspoons celery seed
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

1. Place the potatoes in a large pot of salted cold water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
2. Drain the potatoes and allow them to cool completely. Once cooled, cut them into bite-sized chunks (peeling is optional).
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and celery seed.
4. Add the potato chunks, chopped eggs, diced celery, and red onion to the bowl. Gently fold everything together until the potatoes are evenly coated in the dressing.
5. Season generously with salt and pepper. Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour before serving.
6. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley just before serving.

Makes 8 servings. Prep time: 20 minutes. Cook time: 20 minutes. Chill time: 1 hour.

Zesty Celery Seed Vinaigrette

This bright, tangy vinaigrette is very versatile and can be made in just a few minutes. It can be served over a green salad, used as a marinade for grilled chicken or pork, or added to roasted vegetables. The celery seed gives this vinaigrette a unique herbal taste that lifts it far beyond a basic oil and vinegar dressing. A jar of this vinaigrette stored in the fridge can be kept for up to one week.

Ingredients

• ½ cup apple cider vinegar
• ½ cup neutral oil (such as canola or light olive oil)
• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon celery seed
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Combine all ingredients in a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid.
2. Seal the jar and shake vigorously for 20 to 30 seconds until the ingredients are emulsified and well blended.
3. Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add a little more honey for sweetness, more vinegar for tang, or a pinch more celery seed for a stronger herbal flavour.
4. Use immediately, or store in the refrigerator for up to one week. Shake well before each use as the dressing will separate upon standing.

Makes about 1 cup. Prep time: 5 minutes.

Looking to learn more about celery seed before you cook? Visit our main guide ←