Japanese Celery Ume Salad
Celery Ume Salad with Shio Kombu (Japanese Celery Side Dish in 10 Minutes)
If you're looking for a quick Japanese vegetable side dish that comes together in minutes, this Celery Shio Kombu Ume is one you'll want to make on repeat.
Crunchy celery is tossed with savory shio kombu (salted kelp), tangy umeboshi, and bright ponzu for an incredibly refreshing salad. There's no cooking required, making it perfect for busy weeknights, summer meals, or as a simple make-ahead side.
The combination of salty, tangy, and umami flavors transforms ordinary celery into something surprisingly addictive. Serve it alongside grilled fish, karaage, rice bowls, or enjoy it as a light snack.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ready in just 10 minutes
No cooking required
Naturally packed with umami
Perfect Japanese make-ahead side dish
Great for using up leftover celery
What is Shio Kombu?
Shio kombu is a Japanese seasoning made from kelp that's been simmered, seasoned, and dried. It adds a concentrated savory umami flavor to vegetables, rice, pasta, and salads with very little effort. Combined with umeboshi and ponzu, it creates a perfectly balanced dressing that's salty, tangy, and refreshing.
Tips
Slice the celery thinly for the best texture.
Like more crunch? Serve after 15–20 minutes instead of a full hour.
Add shredded shiso leaves for extra freshness.
Chili flakes or yuzu kosho add a nice spicy twist.
RECIPE
Servings: 2-3
Time: 10 min prep, 1 hr fridge
Ingredients:
4 stalks celery
1 tbsp shio kombu
2 umeboshi, pits removed
1 tbsp ponzu
Sesame seeds, for garnish
Instructions:
Prepare the celery
Remove the tough strings from the outside of each stalk.
Slice it diagonally into thin pieces.
Prepare the ume
Remove the pits from the umeboshi and finely chop or mash the flesh into a paste.
Mix
Combine the celery, umeboshi, shio kombu, and ponzu in a bowl or zip-top bag.
Toss until evenly coated.
Refrigerate for about 1 hour to allow the flavors to blend.
Transfer to a serving bowl and sprinkle with sesame seeds before serving.
FAQ
What is shio kombu?
Shio kombu is seasoned salted kelp commonly used in Japanese cooking to add savory umami flavor to vegetables, rice, and noodles.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. It actually tastes better after marinating for about an hour.
Can I substitute ponzu?
You can mix soy sauce with a little citrus juice such as yuzu or lemon if ponzu isn't available.
Is this recipe vegan?
Many shio kombu products are vegan, but some contain seafood extracts. Check the ingredient label if needed.
What do I serve with this?
It pairs well with grilled salmon, karaage, Japanese curry, donburi, or as part of a bento lunch.
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