Written by CalorieData Nutrition TeamReviewed by a Registered DietitianLast Updated: March 2026

Celery vs Quinoa: Nutrition Comparison

Which is healthier? Compare calories, protein, carbs, and more

Complete side-by-side nutrition comparison per 100g serving | Updated 2026

Which is Healthier?

Quinoa is generally healthier

Quinoa comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has more protein (4.4g vs 0.7g), more fiber (2.8g vs 0.6g), less sodium (7mg vs 80mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Celery

14 kcal

More Protein

Quinoa

4.4g

More Fiber

Quinoa

2.8g

Less Sugar

Celery

1.3g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Celery
14
Quinoa
120
Proteinper 100g
Celery
0.7g
Quinoa
4.4g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Celery
3.3g
Quinoa
21g
Fatper 100g
Celery
0.2g
Quinoa
1.9g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientCeleryQuinoaDifference
Calories14kcal120kcal-106.0kcal
Protein0.7g4.4g-3.7g
Carbohydrates3.3g21g-17.7g
Fat0.2g1.9g-1.7g
Fiber0.6g2.8g-2.2g
Sugar1.3g1.6g-0.3g
Sodium80mg7mg+73.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

All values above are per 100g. Here's how they compare in common serving sizes:

Celery

Per 100g:14 calories
Per cup (150g):21 calories
Per serving (85g):12 calories

Quinoa

Per 100g:120 calories
Per cup (150g):180 calories
Per serving (85g):102 calories

Diet Compatibility

Celery

Low-CarbLow-CalorieVeganVegetarianPaleoLow-Sodium

Quinoa

VeganVegetarianLow-Sodium

When to Choose Celery

  • Lower in calories (14 vs 120)
  • Lower in carbs (3.3g vs 21g)
  • Less sugar (1.3g vs 1.6g)

Common Uses

SaladsStir-friesRoasted sidesSoups
View full Celery nutrition →

When to Choose Quinoa

  • Higher in protein (4.4g vs 0.7g)
  • More fiber (2.8g vs 0.6g)
  • Lower sodium (7mg vs 80mg)

Common Uses

Side dishesBreakfastMeal baseEnergy food
View full Quinoa nutrition →

Celery vs Quinoa: Nutritional Analysis

Quinoa is more calorie-dense at 120 calories per 100g compared to 14 for Celery, a difference of 106 calories. On the protein front, Quinoa delivers more with 4.4g per 100g versus 0.7g, which matters for muscle maintenance, satiety, and overall metabolic health. These differences become meaningful when you consider how each food fits into your daily dietary pattern rather than looking at any single nutrient in isolation.

Macronutrient Breakdown

The macronutrient profiles of Celery and Quinoa tell different nutritional stories. Celery provides 3.3g of carbohydrates, 0.2g of fat, and 0.6g of fiber per 100g, while Quinoa contains 21g carbs, 1.9g fat, and 2.8g fiber. The higher fiber content in Quinoa supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Celery contains 1.3g while Quinoa has 1.6g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Celery is the lower-calorie choice at 14 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Quinoa provides more protein (4.4g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Quinoa offers more fiber (2.8g/100g), which slows digestion and provides steadier energy release.
  • Overall: Neither food is universally "better" than the other. The right choice depends on your specific nutritional goals, meal context, and dietary preferences. Both can play a role in a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which has more calories, Celery or Quinoa?

Quinoa has more calories with 120 kcal per 100g, compared to Celery with 14 kcal. That's a difference of 106 calories per 100g serving.

Is Celery healthier than Quinoa?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Quinoa is generally the healthier choice, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Quinoa has 120 calories, 4.4g protein, and 2.8g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Celery and Quinoa?

Quinoa has more protein with 4.4g per 100g, compared to Celery with 0.7g. Quinoa provides 3.7g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Celery or Quinoa?

For weight loss, Celery is the better choice with only 14 calories per 100g compared to 120 calories in Quinoa. Quinoa also offers 2.8g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Celery or Quinoa have fewer carbs?

Celery has fewer carbs with 3.3g per 100g, compared to Quinoa with 21g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Celery is the better option with 17.7g fewer carbohydrates.

About Our Data

All nutrition data in this comparison is sourced from the USDA FoodData Central, the official food composition database maintained by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Values are based on 100g servings for accurate comparison.

Health Disclaimer: This comparison is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or dietary advice. Nutritional needs vary by individual. The best food choice depends on your personal health goals, dietary requirements, and preferences. Consult a healthcare provider or registered dietitian for personalized nutrition guidance.