Description
Creamy Celery Salad
Ingredients
5 large celery stalks, sliced
1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
2 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
1/4 cup Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise)
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp apple cider vinegar
Salt and black pepper to taste
Directions
Prepare the dressing:
In a bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper.
Toss the salad:
Add the sliced celery, walnuts, and chives to the bowl. Mix well until everything is coated in the dressing.
Chill and serve:
Refrigerate for 10-15 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together. Sprinkle with extra black pepper if desired!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 80 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for the perfect creamy celery salad every time.
- Prepare Your Ingredients: Thoroughly wash and dry 5 large celery stalks. Using a sharp knife, slice them thinly on a diagonal for maximum surface area to hold the dressing. Chop 1/4 cup of walnuts and 2 tablespoons of fresh chives.
- Make the Dressing Base: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine 1/4 cup of Greek yogurt, 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, and 1 teaspoon of apple cider vinegar. Whisk vigorously until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy.
- Season the Dressing: Add a generous pinch of salt and several grinds of fresh black pepper to the yogurt mixture. Whisk again to incorporate. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Combine and Coat: Add all the sliced celery, chopped walnuts, and chives directly into the bowl with the dressing. Using a large spoon or spatula, gently fold the ingredients together until every piece is evenly coated.
- Chill to Perfection: Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator for a minimum of 10-15 minutes. This crucial step allows the celery to slightly soften and absorb the flavors of the dressing.
- Final Touch: Before serving, give the salad one final gentle stir. Taste again for seasoning, adding an extra sprinkle of black pepper or chives on top for presentation.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile salad pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Serve it as a refreshing side to grilled chicken, fish, or a hearty veggie burger. For a light lunch, spoon it over a bed of mixed greens or into a whole-grain pita pocket. It also makes an excellent crunchy topping for baked potatoes or a vibrant, healthy addition to a picnic or potluck spread.
How-to Summary
In short: Whisk yogurt, mustard, vinegar, salt, and pepper to make the dressing. Toss with thinly sliced celery, walnuts, and chives. Chill for 10-15 minutes before serving to meld flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it up to a day in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator. The walnuts may soften slightly, but the flavors will deepen.
What can I use instead of Greek yogurt?
For a dairy-free or richer option, use an equal amount of mayonnaise or a vegan mayonnaise alternative. The dressing will be equally creamy.
How can I add more protein to this salad?
Add a can of drained and flaked tuna, shredded rotisserie chicken, or a cup of cooked chickpeas or white beans to transform it into a complete meal.
My salad seems a bit dry. How can I fix it?
Simply whisk together an extra tablespoon of yogurt or mayonnaise with a dash of vinegar and mix it into the salad until the desired creaminess is achieved.
Can I use different nuts or seeds?
Absolutely. Toasted almonds, pecans, or sunflower seeds are excellent substitutes for walnuts, offering a different flavor and crunch profile.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not Chilling the Salad: Skipping the 10-15 minute chill time means the celery won’t have time to soften slightly and the flavors will remain separate.
- Using Thick Celery Slices: Slicing the celery too thickly makes it harder to eat and less able to absorb the delicious dressing.
- Over-mixing: Once combined, fold gently. Vigorous stirring can break the walnuts into too-small pieces and bruise the fresh chives.
- Underseasoning the Dressing: Always taste your dressing before adding the celery. The yogurt base needs a good amount of salt and pepper to shine.
Conclusion
This Creamy Celery Salad is a testament to how simple ingredients can create something truly special. With its satisfying crunch, tangy dressing, and nutty accents, it’s a healthy, flavorful side dish that comes together in mere minutes. It’s a reliable recipe that proves eating well doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. Give it a try for your next meal and enjoy the fresh, delicious results.