
– 3 pieces celery
Low in calories and high in fiber; excellent source of vitamin K and potassium. Contains beneficial phytochemicals including luteolin and 3-n-butylphthalide, which may support cardiovascular health.
About
Celery (Apium graveolens) is a succulent, herbaceous plant belonging to the Apiaceae family, native to the Mediterranean region and cultivated worldwide. The edible portion consists of elongated, pale green to white petioles (leafstalks) that grow in clustered bunches from a common base, crowned with feathery green leaves. The plant has a distinctive aromatic, mildly peppery flavor with subtle herbaceous and slightly bitter notes. Common varieties include Pascal celery (with thicker, greener stalks), Celeriac (grown for its bulbous root), and Chinese celery (with thinner stalks and stronger flavor).
Culinary Uses
Celery is a foundational aromatic vegetable in Western cuisine, serving as a core component of mirepoix (along with onions and carrots) and soffritto bases in stocks, soups, and braises. The raw stalks are eaten as crudités with dips, added to salads, or incorporated into coleslaw. Braised celery appears in classical French preparations, while celery salt and seeds are used as seasonings. In Asian cuisines, celery leaves and thin stalks add herbaceous notes to stir-fries and soups. The leaves are edible and prized for their concentrated flavor in stocks and infusions.