Name: CELERY, pear, and DATE SALAD Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 6 stalks celery, thinly sliced on the bias; 1 fennel bulb, thinly sliced with a mandolin (optional); 1 ripe Bosc pear, halved and thinly sliced; 6 Medjool dates, pitted, halved, and each half sliced into thirds; 1/4 cup (60 ml) extra-virgin olive oil; 1 lemon, zested and juiced; 2 to 3 ounces thinly shaved sheep’s milk or Manchego cheese; 1/3 cup pistachios, toasted and roughly chopped; Flaky salt, for serving; Freshly cracked pepper, for serving

Jump to Recipe·5.3 from 5 reviews

If you’re looking for a salad that bursts with fresh, crisp textures and a tantalizing blend of sweet and savory flavors, you are in for a treat with this CELERY, pear, and DATE SALAD. The crunchy celery paired with the juicy, honeyed pear and luscious Medjool dates creates a delightful harmony that’s further enhanced by the brightness of lemon, the richness of Manchego cheese, and the satisfying crunch of toasted pistachios. This salad is a perfect balance of lightness and indulgence, making it an absolute favorite to brighten up any meal or serve as a stunning, stand-alone dish.

CELERY, pear, and DATE SALAD Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This CELERY, pear, and DATE SALAD might look simple, but each ingredient has a purpose in crafting its vibrant flavors and textures. The natural sweetness from the fruit and dates is anchored by the crisp celery’s freshness and the salty complexity of the cheese and pistachios, making every bite a delight.

Celery (6 stalks): Thinly slicing on the bias maximizes crunch and adds a lovely visual texture.
Fennel bulb (1, optional): Adds a subtle anise flavor and refreshing crunch when thinly sliced, complemented by the mandolin for even cuts.
Bosc pear (1 ripe): Its firm texture and sweet, honeyed flavor hold up beautifully in this salad without turning mushy.
Medjool dates (6): Soft, sweet, and diced finely, these bring a caramel-like richness that’s utterly addictive.
Extra-virgin olive oil (1⁄4 cup/60 ml): The backbone of the dressing, providing a silky mouthfeel and hint of fruity richness.
Lemon (1, zested and juiced): Brings delightful brightness and a little tang to balance the sweetness.
Sheep’s milk or Manchego cheese (2–3 ounces): Thinly shaved for a buttery, slightly nutty flavor that lifts the salad.
Pistachios (1⁄3 cup): Toasted and roughly chopped to add crunch and a nutty aroma.
Flaky salt: Used at the end to heighten all flavors with satisfying bursts of saltiness.
Freshly cracked pepper: Adds a subtle spicy warmth that rounds out the salad beautifully.

How to Make CELERY, pear, and DATE SALAD

Step 1: Prepare Your Fresh Ingredients

Start by washing and drying your celery and fennel if using. Thinly slice the celery stalks on the bias to create more surface area for the dressing and a prettier presentation. If you choose to include fennel, use a mandolin for thin, even slices that add a lovely crunch and slight licorice aroma. Then, carefully halve and thinly slice your ripe Bosc pear, making sure the slices hold their shape without bruising.

Step 2: Cut and Add the Dates

Pit the Medjool dates and halve them lengthwise, then slice each half into thirds. These sticky, sweet morsels add a succulent dimension that contrasts perfectly with the crisp celery and pear. Having uniformly sized date pieces ensures each bite gets an even balance of flavors.

Step 3: Dress the Salad

Arrange the celery, fennel (if using), pear, and dates on a serving platter or in a large bowl. Drizzle the extra-virgin olive oil and freshly squeezed lemon juice over the top. Toss gently but thoroughly to coat every slice, making sure the bright flavors meld without bruising the delicate pears.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Pistachios

Using a vegetable peeler, shave thin slices of sheep’s milk or Manchego cheese over the top of the salad. This adds a creamy, tangy note that contrasts with the fruit’s natural sweetness. Sprinkle the toasted pistachios across the salad to introduce a toasty crunch and a pop of color. Finish by seasoning with flaky salt and freshly cracked pepper to taste.

How to Serve CELERY, pear, and DATE SALAD

Garnishes

For that extra wow factor, garnish your salad with a few fresh mint leaves or a sprinkle of microgreens. These touches add refreshing herbal notes and elevate the dish’s presentation, making it perfect for entertaining guests or a special family meal.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs wonderfully with rich or grilled meats such as roast chicken, pork tenderloin, or lamb, balancing their savory intensity with light sweetness and crunch. It’s also fantastic alongside a creamy risotto or as part of a mezze spread with hummus and warm pita bread.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this CELERY, pear, and DATE SALAD in individual martini glasses or clear bowls for a stylish appetizer presentation. Alternatively, layer the salad in a large glass bowl to showcase the colorful ingredients for a stunning centerpiece. To add whimsy, drizzle a little extra honey or balsamic glaze on top just before serving.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, place the salad in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Because the pears and celery are quite crisp, the texture will hold fairly well, but the dates may soften slightly. For best texture, add the cheese and pistachios fresh before serving again.

Freezing

This fresh salad is not suitable for freezing, as the high water content in celery and pear will cause the vegetables to become soggy and lose their crispness upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed when fresh.

Reheating

Since this salad is meant to be crisp and fresh, reheating is not recommended. Serve chilled or at room temperature to maintain the wonderful contrast of flavors and textures.

FAQs

Can I substitute the dates with another dried fruit?

Absolutely! While Medjool dates offer a rich caramel sweetness and soft texture, chopped dried apricots or figs can be lovely alternatives, though they will alter the flavor profile slightly.

Is it necessary to include fennel in the salad?

No, fennel is optional but recommended. It adds a subtle anise flavor and extra crunch, which complement the sweet and savory elements beautifully, but you can omit it if you prefer a simpler salad.

What type of cheese works best in this salad?

Sheep’s milk cheese like Manchego provides a buttery, nutty flavor that pairs well here. However, Pecorino or even a sharp Parmesan can be delicious substitutes depending on what you have on hand.

Can I make this salad vegan?

Certainly! Simply omit the cheese and consider adding toasted nuts or seeds for some additional richness and crunch to keep the salad satisfying and flavorful.

How far in advance can I prepare this salad?

You can prep the vegetables and fruit a few hours ahead but wait to toss with dressing, cheese, and pistachios until just before serving to keep everything fresh and vibrant.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve never experienced the delightful combination of crisp celery, juicy pear, and sweet dates in a salad, you’re truly in for a culinary delight with this CELERY, pear, and DATE SALAD. It’s fresh, simple, and utterly delicious—perfect for impressing friends or savoring as a refreshing treat any day of the week. I can’t wait for you to try it and fall in love as I have!

Celery, pear, and Date Salad Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need