Creamy Celery Salad With Mayo

Name: Creamy Celery Salad With Mayo
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups fresh celery, chopped; 1 cup mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Highlighted under: Balanced Living Kitchen

I absolutely love making this Creamy Celery Salad With Mayo whenever I crave a crunchy yet creamy side dish. The combination of crisp celery and rich mayonnaise creates an irresistible texture that’s hard to resist. It’s quick to whip up, making it an excellent addition to family meals or picnics. I've even found that it pairs beautifully with grilled meats or sandwiches. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it a staple in your kitchen!

Created by

Rosie Mitchell

Last updated on 2026-01-24T09:16:08.855Z

Making this Creamy Celery Salad With Mayo was an enjoyable experiment in my kitchen. I decided to add a touch of lemon juice for brightness, and it elevated the flavors significantly. It’s surprising how a simple ingredient like celery can be transformed into something that feels fresh yet indulgent.

One tip I discovered was to let the salad chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making each bite a creamy explosion of taste. Don't skip this step; you’ll be delighted with the results!

You'll Love This Salad Because
The crunch of fresh celery adds a delightful texture.
It's a quick and easy recipe, perfect for busy days.
A versatile side that complements a variety of meals.

Understanding Celery's Role

Celery serves as the backbone of this salad, contributing a fresh, crunchy texture that complements the creaminess of mayo. When selecting celery, opt for stalks that are firm and have bright green leaves; this indicates freshness. Wilting or browning can cause loss of both flavor and texture. Chopping the celery into uniform bite-sized pieces not only ensures a consistent crunch but also makes for a more visually appealing presentation. Consider using a sharp knife to avoid bruising the stalks, which can affect taste.

The flavor of celery is subtle yet essential, providing a fresh and mildly peppery note that balances the richness of the mayonnaise. To enhance its flavor, you can add a pinch of celery salt in addition to regular salt, which will elevate the taste profile of the salad. For those who prefer a bolder kick, incorporating diced green onions or a touch of Dijon mustard into the dressing can create a dynamic flavor combination that intrigues the palate.

Perfecting the Dressing

The dressing is where much of the flavor magic happens in this Creamy Celery Salad. Use a high-quality mayonnaise to ensure creaminess and taste; homemade mayonnaise can elevate the dish significantly. The addition of lemon juice not only adds brightness but also helps cut through the richness of the mayo, creating a more balanced flavor. Stir the dressing until it reaches a glossy consistency, which indicates that the ingredients are well blended. Tasting the dressing before mixing it with the celery will allow you to adjust the seasoning to your preference.

For a twist on the traditional dressing, consider mixing in some Greek yogurt. This not only lightens the dish but also adds an extra layer of tanginess. Be sure to start with less yogurt than mayonnaise, and adjust according to your taste. If you're looking for a healthier version, you can substitute half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt without sacrificing creaminess. Just remember to let the salad chill in the fridge after combining, as this allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make the creamy celery salad.

Salad Ingredients

4 cups fresh celery, chopped
1 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Mix and match ingredients based on your preference!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to prepare your creamy salad.

Prepare the Celery

Start by washing and chopping the celery into bite-sized pieces. Place them in a large mixing bowl.

Mix the Dressing

In a separate bowl, combine mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.

Combine Ingredients

Pour the dressing over the chopped celery and mix well until all pieces are coated.

Chill and Serve

Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.

Serve the salad chilled as a delightful side dish!

Pro Tips

For added crunch, consider tossing in some chopped apples or nuts to the salad before serving.

Make-Ahead Tips

This creamy celery salad is perfect for meal prep, as it tastes even better after sitting for a day. To make it ahead of time, prepare your celery and dressing separately. Combine them just before serving to prevent the celery from becoming too soft. Stored in an airtight container, the salad can last in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it a convenient option for busy weekdays or impromptu gatherings.

If you’re planning to serve it at a picnic or potluck, keep the salad chilled until just before serving. To maintain its crisp texture during transport, use an insulated cooler and add a cold pack. Also, consider bringing along a little extra dressing in case anyone prefers a creamier salad upon serving.

Serving Suggestions

This Celery Salad pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Serve it alongside grilled chicken for a refreshing contrast to the smoky flavors, or alongside sandwiches for a well-rounded lunch. It also makes an excellent topping for baked potatoes or as a filling in lettuce wraps, creating a low-carb alternative that maintains that satisfying crunch.

For seasonal variations, feel free to add other crunchy vegetables like diced bell peppers or shredded carrots for added color and nutrition. Fresh herbs such as dill or chives can also be mixed in for an aromatic touch. Whatever your choice, keep the salad's integrity by ensuring any added ingredients complement rather than overpower the refreshing celery base.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise?

Yes, Greek yogurt will give a tangy flavor while still keeping the salad creamy.

→ How long can I store the salad in the fridge?

The salad can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

→ What can I serve with this salad?

This salad pairs well with grilled chicken, sandwiches, or as part of a picnic spread.

→ Can I add other vegetables to the salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in carrots, bell peppers, or cucumbers for extra crunch.