How To Use Celery Leaves In Cooking

You can use celery leaves in cooking in so many ways, from soups and stews to salads and smoothies.
 
Celery leaves are the leafy tops of the celery stalk, and they’re every bit as edible as the crunchy ribs you’re used to.
 
In fact, they’re packed with flavor and nutrients, which makes them a secret weapon in the kitchen.
 
If you’ve been tossing those leafy tops in the trash, you’re missing out on one of the most underrated parts of the plant.
 
In this post, we’ll explore how to use celery leaves in cooking, why they deserve a spot on your plate, and the best ways to prep and store them.
 
Let’s get cooking.
 

Why You Should Use Celery Leaves in Cooking

Using celery leaves in cooking is a smart move for both flavor and nutrition, and here’s why.
 

1. They’re Bursting with Flavor

Celery leaves taste like a concentrated version of the stalk, but with a slightly more herbaceous, peppery kick.
 
That means when you use celery leaves in cooking, you get a deeper, more aromatic celery flavor without adding extra bulk.
 
They work a lot like parsley or cilantro, which makes them perfect for finishing a dish or stirring into a sauce.
 

2. They’re Packed with Nutrients

The leaves are actually more nutritious than the stalks.
 
They’re rich in vitamins A, C, and K, along with potassium and antioxidants.
 
So when you use celery leaves in cooking, you’re sneaking extra goodness into your meals without any effort.
 
That’s a win-win in my book.
 

3. They Reduce Food Waste

Most people chop off the leaves and throw them away, which is a shame.
 
Using celery leaves in cooking means you’re getting the most out of every bunch you buy.
 
It’s a small habit that saves money and cuts down on kitchen waste.
 
Once you start using celery leaves in cooking regularly, you’ll wonder why you ever tossed them.
 

How to Prep Celery Leaves Before Cooking

Before you use celery leaves in cooking, a little prep goes a long way.
 

1. Wash Them Thoroughly

Celery leaves can trap dirt and grit, so give them a good rinse under cold water.
 
A salad spinner works great, or you can pat them dry with a clean towel.
 

2. Remove Tough Stems

The smaller, tender leaves are the best for using celery leaves in cooking.
 
If you find thicker stems attached to the leaves, pluck the leaves off and discard the tough bits.
 

3. Chop or Leave Whole

For soups and stews, you can toss them in whole.
 
For salads or garnishes, a rough chop is perfect.
 
Either way, you’re ready to use celery leaves in cooking in no time.
 

Delicious Ways to Use Celery Leaves in Cooking

Now for the fun part.
 
Here are some of my favorite ways to use celery leaves in cooking.
 

1. Toss Them into Soups and Stocks

This is probably the easiest way to use celery leaves in cooking.
 
Just drop a handful into your pot along with the stalks.
 
They’ll infuse the broth with a lovely celery flavor and soften as they cook.
 

2. Blend Them into Pesto

Swap half the basil for celery leaves and blitz with garlic, nuts, olive oil, and parmesan.
 
It’s a brilliant way to use celery leaves in cooking when you have a big bunch to use up.
 
The pesto is bright, fresh, and fantastic on pasta or toast.
 

3. Add Them to Salads

Raw celery leaves add a crisp, peppery note to salads.
 
Just chop them up and toss them in with your greens.
 
Using celery leaves in cooking this way keeps their texture and flavor intact.
 

4. Stir Them into Stir-Fries

Toss a handful of leaves into your stir-fry at the very end.
 
They wilt slightly but keep that fresh celery taste.
 
It’s a quick and tasty way to use celery leaves in cooking on a busy weeknight.
 

5. Garnish Like a Pro

Use celery leaves as you would parsley or cilantro.
 
Sprinkle them over soups, roasted veggies, or grain bowls.
 
Using celery leaves in cooking as a garnish adds color and a pop of flavor.
 

6. Infuse Your Smoothies

Yes, really.
 
A few celery leaves blended into a green smoothie add nutrients without overpowering the taste.
 
It’s a sneaky way to use celery leaves in cooking without even turning on the stove.
 

7. Freeze Them for Later

If you can’t use them right away, chop and freeze celery leaves in ice cube trays with a little water or oil.
 
Then pop them into soups or sautés whenever you want to use celery leaves in cooking down the road.
 

So, How Do You Use Celery Leaves in Cooking?

You can use celery leaves in cooking in soups, pesto, salads, stir-fries, smoothies, and more.
 
They’re flavorful, nutritious, and a great way to cut down on food waste.
 
Just wash them, prep them, and treat them like the fresh herb they are.
 
Once you start using celery leaves in cooking, you’ll never look at those leafy tops the same way again.
 
So next time you bring home a bunch of celery, don’t toss the leaves.
 
Use celery leaves in cooking and enjoy the extra flavor and goodness they bring to your table.