Celery

How to select

Look for celery that is straight and firm with fresh leaves and scent. Avoid spongy or limp celery.

How to prepare

• Remove stalks or ribs from the base. 
• Rinse under running water, paying special attention to the base and inner rib.

How to store

• Wrap celery stalks in foil and place in the crisper drawer of the refrigerator. 
• This method for storing ensures that the celery doesn't lose moisture, which is what causes it to turn limp, while also allowing the ethylene to escape. 
• When stored this way, celery stalks can last up to two weeks.

Peak season

Spring, fall

Ways to use

• Stuff celery stalks with peanut butter. 
• Add to soups, casseroles, and salads. 
• Eat celery sticks raw with dip. 
• Put some crunch in your tuna or chicken salad by adding chopped celery.

Fun facts

• Celery has been around 4,000 B.C. 
• Before it was used as food, celery was used for medicine in countries like Egypt, China, and India. 
• The family of herbs and vegetables that celery belongs to contains several poisonous species.

Nutrition facts and info

Very low calorie, very low sugar. Good source of fiber (1.6 g of fiber per cup of chopped celery). Good source of vitamin K, which is essential to building strong bones and preventing heart disease. Source of vitamin A for good vision.

1 cup chopped celery = 14 calories, 3 g carbs, 1.6 g fiber, 40 mg calcium, 11 mg magnesium, 24 mg phosphorus, 263 mg potassium