What to Do With Celeriac: Kitchen Uses, Soups, Salads, and Root-Vegetable Mixes

ByStephen Albert

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Celeriac is one of my favorite cool-season roots to grow in Sonoma Valley because of its versatility in the kitchen. Over decades of gardening, I’ve experimented with countless ways to enjoy its sweet, nutty flavor and crisp texture. From hearty winter soups to refreshing salads, celeriac adds depth and character to meals.

Soups and Stews

Celeriac shines in soups and stews, where its earthy flavor enhances other vegetables. I often dice or cube it and simmer it alongside potatoes, carrots, leeks, and onions. Pureed celeriac also makes a creamy, flavorful base for soups without needing cream.

Salads and Slaws

Raw celeriac has a crisp texture perfect for salads. I peel and julienne the root, then toss it with a light vinaigrette or combine it with apples and carrots for a refreshing slaw. Its mild, nutty taste pairs well with tangy or acidic dressings.

Roasted Root-Vegetable Mixes

Celeriac holds up well to roasting. I cut it into uniform cubes and mix it with carrots, parsnips, and beets, then toss everything in olive oil, salt, and herbs. Slow roasting brings out sweetness and creates caramelized edges while keeping the inside tender.

Mashing and Purées

Mashed celeriac is a great alternative to mashed potatoes. I steam or boil cubes until tender, then mash with butter, cream, or olive oil. Its slightly nutty flavor adds complexity to traditional mashed vegetables.

Other Uses

  • Add to gratins or casseroles
  • Blend into vegetable smoothies or purees
  • Use as a low-carb replacement for potatoes in many dishes

Bottom Line

Celeriac is a versatile root that can be used raw, roasted, mashed, or pureed. Experimenting in the kitchen highlights its unique flavor and texture, making it a staple in my seasonal cooking.

My Favorite Recipes

Celeriac and Apple Slaw

Ingredients:

  • 1 medium celeriac, peeled and julienned
  • 1 apple, julienned
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions:

  1. Toss celeriac and apple in lemon juice to prevent browning.
  2. Add olive oil, salt, and pepper; mix well.
  3. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve chilled.

Roasted Root-Vegetable Medley with Celeriac

Ingredients:

  • 1 medium celeriac, peeled and cubed
  • 2 carrots, peeled and cubed
  • 2 parsnips, peeled and cubed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Toss all vegetables with olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper.
  3. Spread on a baking sheet and roast 35–40 minutes, stirring halfway through.
  4. Serve warm as a side dish.

Creamy Celeriac Mash

Ingredients:

  • 1 medium celeriac, peeled and cubed
  • 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
  • ¼ cup cream or milk (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Boil or steam celeriac cubes until tender, about 15–20 minutes.
  2. Mash with butter or olive oil, adding cream or milk if desired.
  3. Season with salt and pepper and serve hot.

Celeriac Soup

Ingredients:

  • 1 medium celeriac, peeled and diced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups vegetable or chicken stock
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until soft.
  2. Add celeriac and stock; simmer until celeriac is tender, about 20 minutes.
  3. Purée with a blender until smooth.
  4. Season to taste and serve warm.

Celeriac Learning Hub

Start here: How to Plant, Grow, and Harvest Celeriac: A Complete Guide

Celeriac Planting & Growing Basics

Care, Feeding & Watering

Pests, Diseases & Natural Controls (Combined)

Harvesting, Storing & Preserving (Combined)

Companions, Varieties & Garden Planning

Stephen Albert is a horticulturist, master gardener, and certified nurseryman who has taught at the University of California for more than 25 years. He holds graduate degrees from the University of California and the University of Iowa. His books include Vegetable Garden Grower’s Guide, Vegetable Garden Almanac & Planner, Tomato Grower’s Answer Book, and Kitchen Garden Grower’s Guide. His Vegetable Garden Grower’s Masterclass is available online. Harvesttotable.com has more than 10 million visitors each year.

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