Creamy Celery Salad With Parmesan

Name: Creamy Celery Salad With Parmesan
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups fresh celery, chopped; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1/2 cup Greek yogurt; 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste; Optional: fresh dill for garnish

Highlighted under: Lean & Tasty

I absolutely love the crunch and refreshing taste of celery, and this Creamy Celery Salad With Parmesan truly elevates it. Each bite brings together the crispness of fresh celery with a luscious, creamy dressing and the salty bite of Parmesan. It's a perfect side dish that's not only simple to prepare but also impressively versatile, complementing a variety of meals. Whether I’m serving it at a casual gathering or a family dinner, this salad always gets rave reviews and disappears quickly!

Created by

Natalie Briggs

Last updated on 2026-01-24T10:55:09.491Z

When I first made this creamy celery salad, I was surprised at how something so simple could be so delicious. The dressing is a tangy combination of mayonnaise and Greek yogurt, which adds a depth of flavor while keeping it light. I experimented with adding fresh herbs like dill, which brings an extra layer of freshness to the dish.

I often serve this salad alongside grilled chicken or seafood for an easy yet elegant meal. One tip I've learned is to let the salad sit for about 10 minutes before serving; this allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing each bite!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Refreshing crunch of fresh celery paired with creamy dressing
Savory notes from rich Parmesan cheese
Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy days

      

Choosing the Right Celery

When selecting celery for this salad, look for stalks that are firm, crisp, and have vibrant green leaves. Avoid any that appear limp or discolored, as these can indicate age and may lack crunch. Fresh celery not only enhances the salad's texture but also contributes a delicate sweetness that balances the creaminess of the dressing. If you're looking for a milder flavor, consider using the inner stalks, which are more tender and less fibrous.

Proper preparation is essential for optimal freshness. After chopping the celery, let it sit for a few minutes to allow its natural moisture to be released. This will help it stay crunchy after mixing with the creamy dressing. You can also soak the chopped celery in cold water for about 30 minutes before draining; this will give it an extra crispy texture.

Customizing the Dressing

The creamy dressing consists of mayonnaise and Greek yogurt, which together create a rich texture. If you're looking for a lower-calorie version, consider using light mayonnaise and fat-free Greek yogurt without sacrificing flavor. For those who are dairy-free, try a vegan mayonnaise or a cashew-based cream as a substitute, and adjust the lemon juice to taste for acidity. This flexibility allows you to enjoy the salad while accommodating dietary preferences.

Seasoning is key when making the dressing. Start with a pinch of salt and a dash of pepper and taste as you go. Remember, the Parmesan cheese adds its salty flavor, so be careful not to over-season initially. A hint of garlic powder could also elevate the dressing, giving it an extra layer of flavor that enhances the earthy tones of the celery.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a delightful creamy celery salad:

Ingredients

4 cups fresh celery, chopped
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup Greek yogurt
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: fresh dill for garnish

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your salad:

Prepare the celery

Begin by thoroughly rinsing and chopping the celery into bite-sized pieces. Place it in a large mixing bowl.

Make the dressing

In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Combine and serve

Pour the dressing over the chopped celery and stir to coat evenly. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and mix gently. Chill for 10 minutes before serving for best flavor.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, experiment with different herbs like parsley or chives. You can also substitute the Greek yogurt with sour cream for a richer taste.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Celery Salad can be prepared ahead of time, making it an ideal choice for meal prep. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but for the best texture and flavor, I recommend consuming it within a day of preparation. If you find it starts to lose its crunch, try adding a sprinkle of fresh celery leaves before serving to revive its freshness.

Serving this salad as a side dish brings a delightful contrast to heartier main courses, such as grilled chicken or roasted fish. It can also be used as a crunchy topping for sandwiches or wraps. For a charming presentation, serve it in a hollowed-out cucumber or alongside fresh greens for added color and health benefits.

Exploring Variations

While the classic recipe is delicious, feel free to experiment with additional ingredients to suit your taste. Chopped apples or grapes can introduce a sweet note that pairs wonderfully with the savory cheese. Nuts like walnuts or pecans offer a delightful crunch and nutritional boost, making the salad more satisfying as a light lunch.

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the dressing. This will give the salad a spicy kick that contrasts beautifully with the creaminess. Additionally, adding other crunchy vegetables like bell peppers or sliced radishes can enhance both the flavor and the nutritional profile of this versatile salad.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a few hours in advance. Just keep it refrigerated until you're ready to serve.

→ What can I serve this salad with?

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

→ Is there a vegan alternative for this salad?

Absolutely! You can use vegan mayonnaise and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a delicious vegan version.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.