Celery and peanut butter might seem like an unusual pairing, but trust us, this salad is a delightful surprise! This vibrant and surprisingly addictive salad offers a refreshing crunch alongside a creamy, savory peanut dressing. It's the perfect light lunch, a satisfying side dish, or a unique appetizer to impress your guests. The contrasting textures and flavors create a symphony on your palate, making this celery peanut salad a true culinary adventure. Forget boring salads; this recipe is bursting with unexpected deliciousness and easy to customize to your taste.
Beyond its simple elegance, this recipe boasts speed and convenience. Ready in under 15 minutes, it’s ideal for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings. To discover the simple steps to create this flavourful masterpiece, let's dive into the detailed, step-by-step instructions provided in the recipe below.
Tools Needed
- Pot
- Bowl
- Colander
Ingredients
- Scallions: 4 heads
- Garlic: 4 pieces
- Peppercorns: 1 teaspoon
- Star Anise: 1
- Oil: 1-2 cups
- Peanuts
- Soy Sauce: 2 tbsp
- Salt: 1 teaspoon + 1/4 teaspoon
- Celery
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Flavorful Oil and Peanuts
- Boil 1-2 cups of oil with 4 heads of scallions, 4 pieces of garlic, 1 teaspoon of peppercorns, and 1 star anise.
- Boil peanuts with spices, 2 tbsp soy sauce, and 1 teaspoon salt for about 30 minutes at a low-medium heat.
Step 2. Blanch and Chill Celery
- Boil celery for 1-2 minutes, then drain and rinse with cold water. Immediately place in ice water to preserve its green color.
- After 5 minutes in ice water, drain and dry the celery thoroughly.
Step 3. Combine and Season
- Mix the celery with 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1 tablespoon of the prepared salad oil.
Step 4. Serve
- Serve and enjoy!
Read more: Chinese Shredded Chicken Salad Recipe: Easy Sesame Chicken
Tips
- The salad oil can be made in advance and reused many times.
- Don't overcook the celery; 1-2 minutes is sufficient.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! It's best served chilled, so making it a few hours in advance allows the flavors to meld. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
2. What can I substitute for peanut butter?
For a nut-free option, try sunflower seed butter or tahini. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious!
This celery and peanut salad is a testament to the magic of simple ingredients combined creatively. Its refreshing taste and quick preparation make it a perfect addition to any meal, from a light lunch to a vibrant side dish. Enjoy this surprisingly delightful salad, and don't be afraid to experiment with your favorite additions!