Mantuan Celery Salad

Ingredients

In the original American Celery Victor, the celery is typically served warm and marinated in a vinaigrette dressing. However, in Mantuan Celery Salad, the celery is blanched and served chilled, allowing the natural flavors and textures to shine. The dressing in Mantuan cuisine incorporates local olive oil and vinegar, giving it a distinct Mediterranean twist. Additionally, the addition of raisins and pine nuts adds a touch of sweetness and crunch, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Celery Victor, so you can check it out.

• 4 celery stalks, trimmed and cut into thin slices (200g) 4 celery stalks, trimmed and cut into thin slices (200g)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (30ml) 2 tablespoons olive oil (30ml)
• 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar (15ml) 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar (15ml)
• 1 garlic clove, minced 1 garlic clove, minced
• 2 tablespoons raisins (20g) 2 tablespoons raisins (20g)
• 2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts (20g) 2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts (20g)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (10g) 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (10g)
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 120 kcal / 502 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 11g, 6g
• Protein: 2g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the celery slices and blanch for 2 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
2. 2.
   In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, white wine vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
3. 3.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the blanched celery, raisins, toasted pine nuts, and chopped parsley.
4. 4.
   Pour the dressing over the celery mixture and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
5. 5.
   Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. 6.
   Before serving, give the salad a gentle toss and adjust the seasoning if needed.
7. 7.
   Serve the Mantuan Celery Salad chilled and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Celery — Make sure to slice the celery thinly for a delicate texture in the salad.
• Olive oil — Choose a high-quality extra virgin olive oil to enhance the flavors of the dish.
• Raisins — Soak the raisins in warm water for a few minutes before adding them to the salad to plump them up.
• Pine nuts — Toast the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat until they turn golden brown for a nuttier flavor.
• Garlic — Mince the garlic finely to evenly distribute its flavor throughout the dressing.

Tips & Tricks

• For added freshness, squeeze a little lemon juice over the salad just before serving.
• Customize the salad by adding sliced olives or capers for a briny twist.
• If you prefer a sweeter salad, substitute the white wine vinegar with apple cider vinegar.
• To make the salad more substantial, add some cooked quinoa or chickpeas.
• Garnish the salad with a sprinkle of lemon zest for an extra burst of citrus flavor.

Serving advice

Serve the Mantuan Celery Salad as an appetizer or side dish alongside grilled meats or fish. It pairs well with crusty bread or can be enjoyed on its own for a light and refreshing meal.

Presentation advice

Arrange the celery salad on a platter, garnish with a few whole parsley leaves, and sprinkle some toasted pine nuts on top for an elegant presentation. Serve it chilled to showcase the vibrant colors of the ingredients.