Celery is used in a supporting role in many recipes, but there's no reason it can't also be the star of a dish. The vegetable is versatile, and the mild, slightly sweet flavor complements many foods. Incorporating more celery in your diet offers health benefits. It's very low in calories, with no fat or cholesterol, and provides fiber and vitamins A and C. Remove the outer ribs of the celery with a vegetable peeler before cooking.
Braised
Braised celery is suitable served with a meat entree and a side of mashed root vegetables, such as potatoes or turnips, and sauce made from the braising liquid can be used for all three dishes. Saute finely chopped bacon and shallots with the celery and add beef or vegetable stock and seasonings to the pan. Cover tightly, as braising involves both cooking in liquid and steaming. Carrots are a natural pairing for braising with celery, but try something different, such as bok choy or kale.
Stir Fries
Asian-inspired stir fries don't seem complete without plenty of celery. Slice thinly on a diagonal and toss in a hot pan with sliced carrots, snow peas, bok choy, ginger and soy sauce. Any meat and most seafood works in a stir fry but think about expanding your options from the standard chicken, beef, pork and shrimp. Try scallops, duck breast or lamb in your next stir fry. Celery stands up well to both mild and spicy dishes.
Soups and Stews
Canned cream of celery soup is ubiquitous in traditional casseroles, but making your own gives such a completely different flavor profile that it deserves to be eaten from a bowl rather than holding a casserole together. To keep the fat content down, use evaporated non-fat milk instead of heavy cream. Try a silky soup made with julienned celery, leeks and potatoes in chicken or vegetable broth. Celery is a staple in many kinds of stews, from traditional beef stew and gumbo, to vegetarian versions with beans and vegetables.
Side Dishes
Get creative with side dishes incorporating celery. Martha Rose Shulman of "The New York Times" recommends tossing celery with wild rice, walnuts and a lemony vinaigrette. The salad is good served warm or cold. For a twist on warm potato salad, saute celery with shallots and bacon, toss with hot red potatoes and drizzle with a Dijon mustard dressing.
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