Low carb Pickled Celery Snack

There’s something unexpectedly addictive about the sharp crunch of a Low Carb Pickled Celery Snack. The first bite delivers that crisp snap, followed by a bright tang of vinegar and a gentle warmth from red pepper flakes. It’s refreshing, salty, slightly spicy, and incredibly satisfying—all while being light and low in carbs.

If you’ve ever opened the fridge looking for something crunchy but guilt-free, this is it. The aroma of the brine hits first, then the cool, crisp texture keeps you reaching for another spear. And the best part? This simple jar transforms humble celery into a bold, flavor-packed snack overnight… but there’s a little secret to making it perfectly crisp.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

• Ultra low carb and keto-friendly.
• Crisp, crunchy texture that satisfies snack cravings.
• Ready with just a handful of pantry staples.
• No cooking required.
• Perfect for meal prep and busy weekdays.
• Refreshing, tangy flavor with a subtle spicy kick.
• Budget-friendly and incredibly simple.

Ingredients

• 1 quart jar w/lid – Holds the celery and brine securely for proper pickling.
• 1 bunch of celery – Provides the crisp, fibrous base for this refreshing snack.
• 1-2 tsp salt – Enhances flavor and helps draw moisture for better texture.
• 1 tsp dried red pepper flakes – Adds a gentle heat and subtle complexity.
• vinegar – Creates the acidic base needed for that signature tang.
• water – Dilutes the vinegar for a balanced, mellow brine.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Celery
   Start by rinsing the celery thoroughly under cold running water. Celery ribs often hold dirt near the base, so take a moment to separate the stalks and rinse between them carefully.
2. Trim the ends and remove any damaged outer ribs. If you like reducing waste, reserve the leafy tops and trimmings for stock or soup later.
3. Cut each stalk into 6–8 inch pieces so they fit neatly inside your quart jar. Then slice each piece lengthwise to create thin spears. Thinner spears allow the brine to penetrate more quickly, giving you better flavor in less time.
4. Pack the Jar
   Place the celery spears vertically into the jar. Pack them snugly, but avoid crushing them. The goal is to keep them tightly arranged so they stay submerged once the brine is added.
5. If a few pieces are slightly taller, trim them so the lid can close fully without pressure.
6. Make the Brine
   Pour vinegar directly into the jar until the celery is about three-quarters submerged. Then top off with water to fill the jar completely.
7. This balance keeps the flavor tangy but not overpowering. You want brightness, not harsh acidity.
8. Season
   Add 1–2 teaspoons of salt, depending on how salty you prefer your pickles. Then sprinkle in the dried red pepper flakes.
9. Seal the jar tightly and give it a gentle shake. The salt will begin dissolving immediately, and the spices will distribute through the liquid.
10. You may notice tiny air bubbles rising—that’s perfectly normal.
11. Chill
    Place the jar in the refrigerator overnight. During this time, the celery absorbs the brine, becoming infused with flavor while staying crisp.
12. By the next day, your Low Carb Pickled Celery Snack will be ready to enjoy. For the best texture, consume within one week.

Have you ever made refrigerator pickles before? You’ll be surprised how easy—and satisfying—it is.

Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• Use the freshest celery possible for maximum crunch. Limp celery will not firm up in the brine.
• Make sure all pieces stay fully submerged to prevent uneven pickling.
• Avoid overpacking the jar too tightly; crushed celery softens quickly.
• Don’t skip the overnight chill—flavor needs time to develop.
• If the brine tastes too strong the next day, add a small splash of water and gently shake again.

Common mistake to avoid: using too much vinegar without balancing with water can create an overpowering flavor. Also, skipping the salt will leave the celery bland and flat.

Variations & Customizations

For a stronger heat level, increase the red pepper flakes slightly. This is optional but perfect if you love bold flavors.

If you prefer a milder version, use the lower end of the salt measurement and allow it to pickle slightly longer for deeper infusion without extra saltiness.

You can cut the celery into bite-sized sticks instead of long spears for snack boxes or lunch prep. It’s great for portion control.

For a subtle flavor twist, you can experiment with different vinegar types, such as apple cider vinegar, while keeping the overall method the same.

Sometimes I make a jar of this Low Carb Pickled Celery Snack on Sunday evening, and by Monday afternoon it’s already half gone. It’s that kind of snack—the one you reach for without thinking.

Would you enjoy it as a mid-afternoon pick-me-up or alongside your favorite sandwich?

Storage & Make Ahead

Store the jar in the refrigerator at all times.

The celery will stay crisp and flavorful for up to one week. After that, it may begin to soften slightly.

Because this is a quick refrigerator pickle, it is not shelf-stable and should not be stored at room temperature.

Freezing is not recommended, as celery has high water content and will become mushy once thawed.

For best results, keep the lid tightly sealed and always use clean utensils when removing spears.

FAQ

How long does Low Carb Pickled Celery last in the fridge?
It stays fresh for up to one week when stored in a sealed jar in the refrigerator. For maximum crunch, enjoy within the first 5–7 days.

Is pickled celery keto-friendly?
Yes. This Low Carb Pickled Celery Snack is extremely low in carbohydrates and contains minimal calories, making it ideal for keto and low-carb diets.

Can I eat it the same day I make it?
You can, but the flavor will be much milder. Allowing it to chill overnight creates a deeper, more balanced taste.

Why is my celery not crunchy after pickling?
Most often, the celery wasn’t fresh to begin with or was packed too tightly. Always start with crisp stalks and avoid crushing them in the jar.

What type of vinegar works best for pickled celery?
Standard white vinegar creates a clean, sharp flavor. However, you can use other types if you prefer a slightly sweeter or fruitier taste.

Nutrition & Time Table

Nutrient Amount

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cooking Time 0 minutes

Total Time 1 day

Calories 6 kcal

Protein 0.3 g

Carbohydrates 1.3 g

Fat 0 g