Selleriesalat (German Celery Root Salad) Recipe- German Special
Selleriesalat, or German Celery Root Salad, is a refreshing and creamy side dish made from raw celeriac (celery root). Popular in German and Austrian cuisine, this salad combines the crunchy texture of grated celeriac with a tangy, creamy dressing made from mayonnaise, yogurt, mustard, and lemon juice. It’s a perfect balance of sharp, savory, and slightly sweet flavors. Typically served cold, Selleriesalat pairs wonderfully with schnitzel, sausages, or rustic bread, making it a staple in traditional German meals. Let’s dive into this crisp and flavorful recipe
- Prep Time20 min
- Total Time20 min
For the Salad:
- 1 medium celery root (celeriac), peeled and grated (about 2 cups)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (to prevent browning)
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup plain yogurt (or sour cream for a richer version)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (or German mustard)
- 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, for a hint of sweetness)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional Garnishes:
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Chives or green onions
Prepare the Celeriac:
Peel the celery root using a knife or vegetable peeler.
Grate the celeriac using a box grater or food processor.
Toss the grated celeriac with lemon juice immediately to prevent browning.
Make the Dressing:
In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, yogurt, mustard, vinegar, and sugar (if using).
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Mix well until smooth and creamy.
Combine and Chill:
Add the grated celeriac to the bowl of dressing.
Toss until all the celery root is evenly coated.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Serve:
Transfer the salad to a serving dish.
Garnish with chopped parsley, chives, or green onions for extra freshness and color.
Serve chilled as a side dish to meats or bread.
Recipe Notes :
Peeling Tip : Celery root can be knobby—cut off the top and bottom first for easier peeling.
Flavor Twist : Add a grated apple for a sweet and tart variation.
Make-Ahead Friendly : Selleriesalat can be made a day in advance and actually tastes better after chilling.
Serving Suggestion : Serve alongside schnitzel, grilled sausages, or roasted potatoes for a traditional German meal.
