He is the undisputed star of the "Clean Eating" movement. Every morning, thousands swear by a glass of freshly squeezed celery juice. And rightly so? Absolutely! Because celery is not only crunchy, but it provides your body with fluids and minerals like hardly any other vegetable. It's practically nature's sports drink. Find out here why you should include these green stalks in your diet, especially in summer and autumn.
What you should know about celery
Celery has its main season from July to November. During these months, you get it fresh from the field, which is especially important to retain its full nutritional power.
Unlike its knobby relative, it grows above ground and forms long, juicy stalks that owe their vibrant green color to the sun.
Nutrients & Effects
This vegetable is a real vital substance booster. Celery is rich in electrolytes, making it the perfect snack after exercise or on hot days to balance fluid levels. It is also rich in chlorophyll – the leaf green supports blood formation and oxygen supply to the cells.
It does even more for your health: It lowers blood pressure and helps to de-acidify the body, as it is metabolized in an alkaline way. Of course, it is also rich in fiber, which ensures long-lasting satiety and healthy digestion.
An important note from your graphic: Nitrate contamination is possible with celery, especially if it has had little sunlight or has been heavily fertilized. Therefore, it is best to buy organic produce or pay attention to the season (July–November), as field-grown vegetables are usually less contaminated.
Taste & Consistency
Celery has a very intense taste – spicy, slightly salty, and tart. For many, this takes some getting used to, but it is precisely this taste that indicates the essential oils it contains. The consistency is extremely crunchy and fibrous.
Preparation with kitchen appliances
To make the most of the nutrients, your kitchen appliances are indispensable:
- Slow Juicer / Juicer: Your graphic confirms it: Celery is good for juices. A "Celery Juice" in the morning provides you directly with valuable electrolytes and lowers blood pressure. Tip: A splash of lemon not only helps with the taste, but the vitamin C also inhibits the formation of nitrosamines from any nitrates present.
- Blender: Since it is rich in chlorophyll, it is a top ingredient for green smoothies. To prevent the drink from becoming fibrous, cut the stalks into small pieces before putting them in the blender. Combine it with sweet fruit like pineapple to balance the intense taste.
- Air Fryer: Celery sticks from the air fryer are an exciting change. Cut the stalks into sticks, season, and bake until crispy. They lose some water but retain their fiber.
- Bread Maker: For a moist, savory bread, you can add finely diced celery to the dough. It releases moisture and provides a spicy bite.
- Ice Cube Maker: Did you press too much juice? Freeze the electrolyte-rich juice in ice cube trays. These cubes are brilliant as a "health kick" in a glass of water or tomato juice ("Virgin Bloody Mary").
Shopping & Storage
Look for stalks that are firm and snap rather than bend. The leaves should be fresh green and not wilted. Celery keeps best in the refrigerator if you wrap it in a damp cloth or place the ends in water.
Use in the kitchen
- Raw: As a classic "dip spoon" for herb quark or hummus.
- Cooked: As a base for soups and sauces (e.g., Italian soffritto).
- Salad: Sliced thinly in Waldorf salad or mixed summer salad.
Fun Facts
- Negative-calorie myth: With only about 16 calories per 100g, it provides almost as little energy as you consume while chewing – but only almost. It's still a great weight-loss food!
- Natural salt: Due to its natural sodium content, it tastes salty, which is why dishes with celery often require less salt.
- Don't throw away the leaves: The leaves often contain even more chlorophyll and vital substances than the stalks – use them like parsley for seasoning!
Conclusion
Celery is the fitness professional in the vegetable drawer. It is rich in electrolytes, chlorophyll-rich, and lowers blood pressure. Although it has an intense taste and nitrate contamination is possible, those who opt for organic quality and enjoy it as a juice (it's well suited for this) are doing their body good. Use the season from July to November for your natural energy kick!
