As I was rummaging through my fridge one afternoon, ready to toss another boring salad together, I stumbled upon a bunch of fresh celery just waiting to be brought to life. The sight of those crisp green stalks sparked a creative urge, and before I knew it, I was whipping up a Celery Salad with Greek Yogurt Dressing that would change the way I think about this oft-overlooked veggie.
With a delightful crunch and a hint of zest from the lemon and garlic, this salad is bursting with flavor and refreshingly easy to prepare. It’s the perfect antidote to the fast-food rut, delivering a healthy yet satisfying crunch that you and your family will love. Toss in some toasted slivered almonds and fresh mint, and suddenly, the humble celery becomes more than just a snack; it transforms into a star on your dinner table.
Whether you’re seeking a vibrant side dish or a light lunch option, this Celery Salad recipe is your new go-to! Grab your apron, and let’s dive into a deliciously simple way to elevate your meals.
Why is Celery Salad so Refreshing?
Crisp texture: This Celery Salad offers an irresistible crunch that keeps each bite exciting.
Creamy dressing: A luscious Greek yogurt dressing with garlic and lemon gives a tangy twist that elevates the dish.
Nutritious powerhouse: Packed with vitamins and low in calories, it’s a guilt-free indulgence that keeps you energized.
Quick prep time: With just 10 minutes needed, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.
Versatile delight: Enjoy it as a side dish, a light lunch, or even as a topping for your favorite protein. This salad is sure to spark joy and flavor at your table!
Celery Salad Ingredients
For the Dressing
• Garlic cloves – 3 large, finely minced for a bold flavor kick.
• Plain Greek yogurt – 1/4 cup, adds creaminess while keeping the salad light.
• Lemon juice – 1 tablespoon, for a refreshing zesty brightness.
• Olive oil – 1 tablespoon, contributes healthy fat and richness.
• Aleppo pepper – 1 teaspoon, gives a mild heat and unique flavor twist.
• Kosher salt – 1/2 teaspoon, enhances all the flavors in the dressing.
• Freshly ground black pepper – 1/4 teaspoon, adds that finishing touch of spice.
For the Salad
• Slivered almonds – 1/2 cup, toast them for extra crunch and nuttiness.
• Celery – 1 bunch (about 10 to 12 stalks), thinly sliced; the star of your Celery Salad!
• Scallions – 3, white and green parts thinly sliced for a mild onion flavor.
• Fresh mint leaves – 1/3 cup, chopped; they brighten up the salad and add freshness.
Get ready to enjoy a deliciously refreshing dish that brings celery to life!
How to Make Celery Salad
-
Mince the Garlic: Peel three large garlic cloves and finely mince them until they’re almost a paste. This enhances the flavor, so it’s essential for your dressing.
-
Prepare the Dressing: In a medium bowl, combine the garlic paste, 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 teaspoon Aleppo pepper, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, and 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Whisk together until smooth and creamy.
-
Toast the Almonds: Set a small dry skillet over medium heat. Add 1/2 cup slivered almonds and toss them occasionally for 2 to 4 minutes, until golden brown and fragrant. Once toasted, transfer them to a plate to cool.
-
Mix the Salad Ingredients: In the bowl with your dressing, add thinly sliced celery stalks, chopped scallions, and fresh mint leaves. Save two tablespoons of slivered almonds for topping, mixing in the rest to ensure every ingredient is evenly coated.
-
Garnish and Serve: To finish, sprinkle additional mint, the reserved slivered almonds, and roughly chopped celery leaves on top. Serve immediately for the freshest taste.
Optional: Add a sprinkle of feta cheese for a tangy twist!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These delightful Celery Salad components are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to save valuable time during your busy week! You can prepare the dressing, which consists of garlic, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, and spices, up to 3 days in advance—just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. The celery and scallions can also be sliced and stored separately for up to 24 hours; this way, they retain their crunch. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine the prepped ingredients, toss in the toasted almonds, and garnish with mint. You’ll enjoy a fresh, vibrant dish that tastes just as delicious as when made on the spot!
Celery Salad Variations
Feel free to get creative and adapt this Celery Salad to suit your taste and dietary needs!
- Nut-Free: Replace slivered almonds with sunflower seeds for a delightful crunch without any nuts.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute the Greek yogurt with a dairy-free yogurt alternative for a creamy texture that’s also vegan-friendly.
- Add Protein: Toss in cooked chickpeas or shredded rotisserie chicken to transform this salad into a filling main dish.
- Herb Boost: Experiment with different herbs like parsley or dill instead of mint to create a unique flavor profile.
- Heat it Up: Mix in diced jalapeños or a dash of sriracha if you prefer a spicy kick that complements the salad’s crunch.
- Fruit Twist: Add diced apples or pears for a sweet and crisp contrast to the savory elements of your Celery Salad.
- Citrus Zing: Squeeze in some fresh orange juice or add orange segments to heighten the salad’s refreshing taste.
- Grain-Enhanced: Fold in cooked quinoa or bulgur wheat for an extra layer of texture and nutrients, making it even more satisfying.
The beauty of this refreshingly crisp salad lies in its adaptability—make it your own!
What to Serve with Celery Salad with Greek Yogurt Dressing?
Creating a balanced meal around your vibrant celery salad is an exciting journey of flavors and textures!
-
Grilled Chicken: Juicy, tender chicken adds a lovely savory contrast, making the meal both hearty and healthy. Pair it with a squeeze of lemon for zest.
-
Quinoa Pilaf: Light and nutty, quinoa pilaf brings a hearty grain element that harmonizes with the creamy yogurt dressing and crunchy celery. It’s an excellent vegetarian option.
-
Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, artisanal crusty bread that invites vibrant dips or spreads, enhancing the overall dining experience. Dip it into delicious olive oil for added richness.
-
Roasted Vegetables: Oven-roasted seasonal vegetables boast caramelized flavors that complement the fresh crunch and yogurt tang, creating a delightful medley on your plate.
-
Chickpea Salad: A refreshing chickpea salad seasoned with lemon and herbs adds protein and texture diversity, making the meal well-rounded and satisfying.
-
Sparkling Water with Mint: Elevate your refreshing experience with mint-infused sparkling water for a light, effervescent drink that echoes the flavors in the salad.
-
Apple Crisp: Satisfy your sweet tooth with a warm apple crisp served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, perfectly contrasting the refreshing salad as your finale.
-
Hummus Plate: Pair it with a vibrant hummus platter sprinkled with paprika and olive oil alongside fresh veggie sticks, creating a colorful and satisfying presentation.
Storage Tips for Celery Salad
Fridge: Keep leftover Celery Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain its crunch and flavor.
Freezer: While not ideal for freezing due to the texture of celery, if you must, consider freezing the dressing separately; store it for up to 1 month.
Reheating: If you have the salad dressed, enjoy it cold. If the dressing is separated, mix fresh seasonal veggies before serving to refresh the flavors.
Preparation Tip: To enjoy the salad at its best, assemble and dress only what you plan to eat right away; celery can lose its vitality when left in dressing too long.
Helpful Tricks for Celery Salad
Use Fresh Ingredients: Always choose fresh, crisp celery and herbs to ensure your Celery Salad has maximum flavor and crunch.
Mince Garlic Properly: Make the garlic paste finely enough; this releases its oils, imparting a delightful depth to your dressing.
Don’t Overtoast Almonds: Keep a close eye while toasting slivered almonds; they can burn quickly, turning your salad bitter.
Assembly Matters: Mix the salad just before serving for optimal crunch and freshness—celery can wilt if left in the dressing too long.
Customize Your Dressing: Feel free to adjust the lemon juice or Aleppo pepper to suit your taste; this personal touch makes the Celery Salad truly yours!
Celery Salad with Greek Yogurt Dressing Recipe FAQs
What kind of celery should I use for this salad?
Absolutely! Choose crisp, fresh celery with bright green color and no dark spots. The leaves should also be vibrant and unblemished for the best flavor and presentation. I often recommend looking for celery that feels firm to the touch, as it ensures a satisfying crunch in your salad.
How should I store leftover Celery Salad?
You can keep leftover Celery Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain its crunch, store the dressing separately and mix it just before serving. The yogurt-based dressing can generally hold up well for a few days but might be best enjoyed fresh!
Can I freeze this salad?
While I wouldn’t recommend freezing the entire salad due to the texture of celery, if you’d like to freeze the dressing, you can! Just store it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight, and mix it with fresh celery and herbs.
What can I do if my dressing is too thick?
If your dressing turns out too thick for your liking, don’t worry! Simply add a splash of water or additional lemon juice a teaspoon at a time until you achieve your desired consistency. Whisk well after each addition to ensure everything is blended smoothly. This way, you can customize the texture to your preference!
Is this salad suitable for people with nut allergies?
Very! If you or your guests have nut allergies, you can easily leave out the slivered almonds or replace them with toasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for a crunchy alternative. Just be sure to check labels if you’re using pre-packaged nuts or seeds to avoid cross-contamination.
Can I prepare this salad in advance?
To keep your Celery Salad fresh and crunchy, prepare the dressing ahead of time and store it separately. You can slice the celery, scallions, and mint, but hold off on mixing them with the dressing until just before serving. This way, your salad will retain its delightful crispness!
Celery Salad with Creamy Yogurt: A Fresh Twist You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Mince the garlic by peeling and finely chopping three large cloves until they are almost a paste.
- Prepare the dressing by combining the garlic paste, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, Aleppo pepper, kosher salt, and black pepper in a mixing bowl. Whisk until smooth.
- Toast the slivered almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2 to 4 minutes until golden brown and fragrant. Remove and let cool.
- In the bowl with the dressing, mix in the sliced celery, chopped scallions, and chopped mint. Reserve some almonds for topping.
- Garnish with the reserved almonds, additional mint leaves, and celery leaves. Serve immediately.
