NOTE: To keep celery fresh at home, store it in the refrigerator, preferably in the crisper drawer. For optimal freshness, wrap the celery stalks in aluminum foil, which helps retain moisture without causing them to become soggy. Alternatively, you can place the stalks in a container with a small amount of water, covering the bottom, to keep them hydrated. Be sure to change the water every few days. If you’ve already cut the celery, wrap the pieces in a damp paper towel and store them in a sealed plastic bag. This will help keep them crisp for up to a week.

Celery may be an often-overlooked vegetable, but it’s a true kitchen powerhouse that should have a regular place in your meal planning. Whether you want to add a refreshing crunch to salads, a savory depth to soups, or a healthy snack for the kids, celery is up for the task. We will dive into the many ways to cook with celery, offering helpful tips, simple recipes, and creative ideas for incorporating this budget-friendly vegetable into family-friendly meals. Let’s embrace the versatility of celery and make it a staple in your kitchen!

Why Celery is a Great Choice for Your Family

Celery might seem like a humble vegetable, but it packs a punch when it comes to nutrition. Here are some reasons why celery is a great addition to your family’s meals:

1. Low in Calories: Celery is naturally low in calories, making it an ideal snack for both you and your children. It’s a great way to add volume to meals without contributing to excess calorie intake.
2. High in Fiber: Celery is an excellent source of dietary fiber, which is essential for digestive health. Eating enough fiber supports overall gut health, especially important for growing children.
3. Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Celery contains a variety of essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin K, vitamin C, potassium, and folate. These nutrients play key roles in boosting immunity, supporting bone health, and promoting healthy cell function.
4. Hydrating: Made up of 95% water, celery helps keep you and your family hydrated, making it a great snack on hot days or as a refreshing addition to meals.

How to Use Celery in Your Meals

Celery is incredibly versatile and can be added to various dishes. Here are some ideas to incorporate celery into your family’s diet:

• Snacks: Cut celery into sticks and pair them with hummus, peanut butter, or cheese for a tasty and healthy snack.
• Soups and Stews: Celery is a classic ingredient in soups, stews, and broths. Its mild flavor adds depth and texture to these dishes, making it a great base vegetable.
• Salads: Add fresh, chopped celery to salads for a satisfying crunch. It pairs well with a variety of greens, tomatoes, and other vegetables.
• Smoothies: Celery can be blended into smoothies for an added boost of nutrients and hydration, especially when mixed with fruits like apples, bananas, or berries.
• Stir-fries: Sauté celery with other vegetables like carrots, onions, and bell peppers for a quick, flavorful side dish.

Storing Celery to Keep It Fresh

Celery is a vegetable that can spoil quickly if not stored properly. Here are some tips to ensure your celery stays fresh longer:

• Wrap in Aluminum Foil: Wrap celery stalks tightly in aluminum foil before storing them in the refrigerator. This helps maintain their moisture and crispness.
• Water Storage: For even better longevity, place the celery in a jar or container with a small amount of water at the bottom, making sure the stalks are submerged. Change the water every few days to keep the celery fresh.
• Freezing Celery: If you find you won’t use your celery in time, you can also freeze it. Simply chop it up, blanch in boiling water for a few minutes, and store it in a freezer-safe bag.

Pick up your celery and other WIC groceries at Lone Star Family Market.