Celery Salad With Yogurt Dressing

Name: Celery Salad With Yogurt Dressing
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups celery, chopped; 1 cup yogurt (Greek or regular); 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (optional)

Highlighted under: Balanced Living Kitchen

I’ve always loved crispy, crunchy salads, but when I discovered how perfectly celery pairs with a creamy yogurt dressing, I was hooked. This Celery Salad with Yogurt Dressing is not only refreshing but also incredibly easy to make. The tanginess of the yogurt combined with the crispness of the celery brings a delightful balance to any meal or as a light snack. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some extra veggies, making it a frequent choice for our family dinners.

Created by

Rosie Mitchell

Last updated on 2026-02-01T16:45:36.141Z

One day, while searching for a light, nutritious dish to serve at a gathering, I stumbled upon the idea of mixing fresh celery with a tangy yogurt dressing. The result was astonishing! With each bite, the crunchy texture of celery combined beautifully with the creaminess of the yogurt. It was an instant hit among my friends and family, proving that simplicity often leads to the most delightful results.

I've learned that the key to this salad is using fresh, crisp celery and a well-balanced yogurt dressing. Mixing in a splash of lemon juice not only brightens the flavors but also enhances the overall freshness. I often add herbs like dill for an extra layer of flavor, making this salad my go-to recipe during warm seasons!

Why You'll Love This Salad
Crisp celery with a creamy, tangy dressing that excites your palate
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknight meals
A light yet satisfying dish that complements any main course

Mastering the Dressing

The yogurt dressing is the star of this salad, offering a creamy texture that complements the crunch of fresh celery. When preparing it, ensure your yogurt is at room temperature for easier mixing. If you prefer a thicker dressing, stick with Greek yogurt, as its richness enhances the salad's overall texture. For a lighter option, regular yogurt works just as well, but you might want to adjust the seasoning slightly to maintain the flavor balance.

While whisking the ingredients together, take care to blend them thoroughly until the dressing is homogeneous. A quick tip: if you find your dressing is too thick after adding lemon juice, simply stir in a teaspoon of water until you reach your desired consistency. The acidity from the lemon not only brightens the flavors but also helps to cut through the richness of the yogurt.

Choosing the Perfect Celery

When selecting celery for the salad, look for stalks that are firm, with vibrant green leaves. These are indicators of freshness and crunch. Avoid any celery that shows signs of wilting or browning, as freshness contributes significantly to the crunch and overall enjoyment of this salad. To prep, wash the celery thoroughly to remove any dirt and then chop it into bite-sized pieces for an ideal texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy dressing.

For an interesting flavor twist, consider using different varieties of celery, such as Pascal or even the sweeter Variety Autumn, which can offer unique flavor profiles. Additionally, if you're feeling adventurous, you could add complementary ingredients like sliced apples or chopped carrots to enhance the salad's sweetness and color without overshadowing the star ingredient.

Serving and Storing Tips

This Celery Salad with Yogurt Dressing can be made ahead of time, making it an excellent choice for meal prep. If you plan to serve it later, I recommend storing the dressing separately from the celery to maintain the crunchiness. Just combine them just before serving. The salad can stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to two days, but be mindful that extended chilling may lead to soggy celery, so keep that in mind for optimum texture.

When serving, consider garnishing with extra dill or even a sprinkle of toasted nuts for added crunch and flavor. This dish can work beautifully as a side salad alongside grilled meats or as a light lunch paired with whole-grain crackers. Get creative with serving vessels; using individual mason jars can add a fun twist, making it a great option for picnics or lunchboxes.

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

4 cups celery, chopped
1 cup yogurt (Greek or regular)
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (optional)

Mix all the ingredients together for a delightful salad experience!

Instructions

Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, pepper, and dill (if using) until well combined.

Combine the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, add the chopped celery and pour the yogurt dressing over it. Toss gently to coat the celery evenly.

Serve

Transfer the salad to a serving dish or individual bowls and enjoy immediately or chill in the refrigerator for 10 minutes before serving.

Enjoy this refreshing salad as a side or a light lunch option!

Pro Tips

For added crunch, consider tossing in some diced apples or nuts. This salad also pairs wonderfully with grilled meats.

Variations and Add-ins

Feel free to customize this recipe according to your taste preferences. You can add shredded carrots for a pop of color and sweetness or even replace some of the celery with diced cucumber for a refreshing twist. If you're looking to boost the nutritional profile further, consider tossing in some sunflower seeds or chopped nuts for a satisfying crunch and healthy fats.

Another fun variation could be to experiment with different herbs. Fresh parsley, chives, or even cilantro could alter the flavor profile significantly while providing additional freshness and vibrancy to the salad. You could also infuse the yogurt dressing with a pinch of garlic powder or a hint of mustard to give it an extra depth of flavor.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find your dressing is too tangy for your taste, a touch of honey or maple syrup can help balance the acidity without compromising the overall flavor. Start with a teaspoon and adjust accordingly. Conversely, if the dressing feels bland, adding a bit more salt or a squeeze of lemon juice can enhance the flavors significantly.

In case the celery has turned out soggy, it often means either the celery wasn't fresh enough or it is mixed with the dressing too far in advance. Always chop celery just before mixing to keep it crisp. If you've already assembled the salad but wish to salvage it, consider tossing in fresh chopped celery or even some crispy lettuce just before serving to restore that crunch factor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dressing a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before using.

→ How long does the salad last?

The salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. The celery may lose some crunch over time.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add ingredients like cucumber, bell peppers, or carrots for more variety.

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.