Celery and black radish salad

Hello, dear cooking enthusiasts! Today I invite you to discover together a fresh salad recipe, full of flavor and nutrients, that will surely become a favorite on your tables. It is a delicious salad of celery and black radish, perfect both as a side dish and as an appetizer. Get ready for an explosion of tastes!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Recipe History
Salads have been an integral part of cuisine since ancient times, appreciated not only for their taste but also for their nutritional benefits. Combining fresh vegetables with flavorful dressings is a tradition that has evolved over the centuries. The celery and black radish salad is a simple yet extremely versatile recipe that can be adapted according to everyone's preferences.

Necessary Ingredients
- 1 black radish (approximately 300 g)
- 1 celery (approximately 200 g)
- 3-4 tablespoons of homemade mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon of sour cream
- Half a lemon (juice)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh dill (fresh is preferred)

Ingredient Tips
- Black radish is rich in vitamin C and has detoxifying properties. Choose firm radishes without spots or signs of damage.
- Celery adds a crunchy and fresh taste, being a good source of fiber. Opt for celery with green leaves, which will add flavor to the salad.
- Homemade mayonnaise is an excellent option, as you can control the ingredients. If you want a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise.
- Fresh dill adds a delicious aroma and a boost of nutrients. If you don't have dill, you can try parsley.

Preparation Steps
1. Cleaning the vegetables: Start by peeling the black radish and celery. Use a sharp knife to remove the skin. That said, don't forget to wash the vegetables well under cold running water to remove any impurities.

2. Grating the vegetables: Using a small grater, grate both the radish and the celery. This will help release the natural juices and improve the salad's texture.

3. Squeezing out excess juice: After grating the vegetables, it's important to squeeze out the excess juice. This step will prevent the salad from becoming too watery. Use a cheesecloth or a sieve to do this.

4. Seasoning: Place the squeezed vegetables in a large bowl. Drizzle with the juice from half a lemon, mix well to prevent oxidation. Add salt and pepper to taste, then the chopped dill.

5. Adding the dressing: Add the mayonnaise and sour cream over the vegetables. Gently mix to avoid crushing the vegetables, just to coat them evenly with the creamy dressing.

6. Serving: Transfer the salad to a platter or individual bowls. You can garnish with a few dill leaves for a more attractive look.

Serving Suggestions
This celery and black radish salad is delicious served alongside grilled meat or fish. You can also pair it with savory crackers or toasted bread for a tasty appetizer. If you want to experiment, add some nuts or toasted seeds for an extra crunch.

Nutritional Benefits
- Black radish is known for its antioxidant properties and helps detoxify the body.
- Celery is a low-calorie vegetable, rich in water and fiber, making it ideal for diets.
- Dill contains essential vitamins and minerals, contributing to overall health.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use other vegetables?
Yes, you can experiment with carrots or cabbage, adapting the recipe to your personal taste.

2. Is this salad suitable for vegans?
Yes, replace the mayonnaise and sour cream with plant-based yogurt or avocado for a vegan version.

3. How long does it keep in the fridge?
The salad keeps well in the fridge for 1-2 days, covered with plastic wrap.

4. Can it be prepared in advance?
Yes, it is even better if you let it sit in the fridge for 30 minutes before serving, to allow the flavors to combine.

By experimenting with this recipe, you will discover not only a healthy salad but also a way to bring a touch of freshness to your table. I hope this detailed description helps you achieve a perfect result. I look forward to your impressions and, why not, photos of your creations! Enjoy your meal!