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 celery, sliced; 1 cup plain Greek yogurt; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste; Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Light Kitchen Magic

I love celebrating the freshness of vegetables, and this Creamy Celery Salad with Parmesan does just that! The crunch of the celery paired with a rich, creamy dressing is simply irresistible. I’ve often made this salad for picnics and family gatherings, and it's always a hit. The addition of Parmesan adds a delicious saltiness that elevates the dish. Plus, it’s a great way to incorporate more greens into our meals without compromising on flavor!

Created by

Katherine Blake

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:28:06.902Z

When I first whipped up this Creamy Celery Salad with Parmesan, I knew I had discovered a gem. The crispy celery provides a satisfying texture, while the creamy dressing brings it all together. I added a special touch of lemon juice to brighten the flavors. This salad has been a staple on my table for brunch, and I love how quickly it comes together.

One memorable moment was serving this at a summer barbecue. Guests were intrigued by the bright green salad, and I encouraged them to try just a spoonful. To my delight, it was gone in a flash! If you really want to impress, consider garnishing with extra Parmesan curls on top for that professional touch.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The refreshing crunch of fresh celery
Rich, creamy dressing that complements every bite
Elevated with the sharpness of Parmesan cheese

Celery Selection and Preparation

When selecting celery for your salad, look for firm stalks that are crisp and have a vibrant green color. Avoid any that are wilted or have brown spots, as they can affect the overall crunch and flavor of the salad. To prepare, wash the celery thoroughly under cool water to remove any dirt or grit. Cutting the celery into uniform, bite-sized pieces ensures a consistent texture and makes it easier to toss and serve.

If you're looking to enhance the flavor profile of your salad, consider adding a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper over the sliced celery before mixing in the dressing. This small step amplifies the sharpness of the dish, particularly when paired with the creamy elements of the salad.

Mastering the Dressing

The dressing for this Creamy Celery Salad is a key player, offering both texture and flavor. Using plain Greek yogurt instead of sour cream provides a tangy element while significantly reducing fat content. If you prefer a lighter version, you could substitute half of the mayonnaise with additional yogurt. This keeps it creamy without overwhelming the salad’s fresh flavors.

Mix the dressing until it's completely smooth; if you notice any lumps of Parmesan remaining, whisk a bit longer. Using a whisk over a fork can help achieve that glossy, cohesive finish. If the dressing appears too thick, a splash of water or a little more lemon juice can loosen it without affecting the overall taste.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this creamy delight:

Ingredients for Creamy Celery Salad

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

With these ingredients ready, you're all set to create this refreshing salad!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Creamy Celery Salad:

Prepare the Celery

Start by washing the celery stalks thoroughly. Slice them into thin, bite-sized pieces and set aside in a large mixing bowl.

Make the Dressing

In a separate bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, and lemon juice. Mix well until smooth.

Combine Salad and Dressing

Pour the dressing over the sliced celery. Gently toss to coat all the celery with the dressing evenly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the salad to a serving platter. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and enjoy your creamy creation!

Your Creamy Celery Salad with Parmesan is now ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, try adding diced apples or walnuts to the salad. They pair wonderfully with the creamy dressing and add both sweetness and crunch.

Storage Tips

This Creamy Celery Salad can be made ahead of time, which is perfect for meal prepping or preparing for gatherings. When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, the salad will remain fresh for up to 2 days. However, it’s best to add the dressing just before serving to maintain the crispness of the celery.

If you notice the celery starting to soften or the dressing separating after a day, a quick stir can help revive the salad. Adding a fresh pinch of salt or an extra squeeze of lemon juice can also enhance the flavor, making it taste freshly made.

Serving Suggestions

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, making it an excellent side for summer barbecues. For a more substantial dish, consider adding cooked chicken or shrimp to create a complete meal. You can also serve it stuffed in pita bread or on top of crackers for a delightful appetizer.

For variation, try mixing in other vegetables like diced bell peppers or sliced radishes, which can provide additional color and crunch. If you're vegan, swap out the yogurt and mayonnaise for plant-based alternatives and use vegan Parmesan for a equally tasty dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. Just add the dressing close to serving time to keep the celery crisp.

→ How can I store leftovers?

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

→ Is there a substitute for Greek yogurt?

You can use sour cream instead if you prefer. It will also provide a creamy texture.

→ Can I use a different cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with feta or cheddar cheese for a different flavor profile.