Creamy Celery Salad With Mayo

Name: Creamy Celery Salad With Mayo
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups celery, chopped; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped (optional); 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy Plate Inspirations

I’ve been experimenting with different salads lately, and this Creamy Celery Salad With Mayo has quickly become a favorite in my kitchen. The crunchy celery combined with a rich mayo dressing creates a delightful contrast that is absolutely irresistible. Whether it's served as a side dish or a light meal, this salad is refreshing and satisfying. I love how easy it is to whip up, making it perfect for quick lunches or gatherings. Plus, it stays crisp for hours, making it ideal for meal prep!

Created by

Charity Bowen

Last updated on 2026-01-24T10:31:08.358Z

When I first made this Creamy Celery Salad, I wasn’t sure how flavorful it would turn out. However, the combination of fresh, crisp celery and a creamy mayo dressing is surprisingly excellent! I tossed in some crunchy walnuts for added texture, and instantly it transformed into a tasty dish. I recommend using high-quality mayonnaise for depth of flavor and to actually make the salad feel luxurious.

To take it up a notch, you can add some diced apples for sweetness or crisp bacon bits for a savory twist. I love that it’s versatile, allowing me to adjust it based on what I have in the fridge. Enjoy experimenting with it!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The satisfying crunch of fresh celery
A luxurious, creamy texture that everyone craves
Perfect as a refreshing side or a light lunch option

Celery Selection and Preparation

Choosing fresh, crisp celery is crucial for this salad. Look for stalks that are bright green and firm to the touch, avoiding those that have wilted leaves or brown spots. Rinse the celery thoroughly under cold water and pat it dry before chopping. This ensures any dirt or pesticides are removed, giving you the clean, fresh crunch that's essential in this recipe.

When chopping, aim for uniform bite-sized pieces, approximately 1-inch long. This not only makes for a more aesthetically pleasing dish but also ensures even coating with the creamy dressing. If you're short on time, using pre-chopped celery can work in a pinch, but fresh-cut gives far superior texture and flavor.

Dressing Details

The mayo in this salad is the star, providing a rich, creamy base that marries the flavors of the dish. Opt for a high-quality mayonnaise or make your own for a personalized touch. If you're looking to lighten it up, Greek yogurt can serve as a fantastic substitute, adding tang without sacrificing creaminess.

In addition to lemon juice, consider adding a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to your dressing for an extra kick of flavor. This not only enhances the overall profile but also adds a hint of brightness that balances the richness of the mayo. If you prefer a sweeter note, a touch of honey can create a delightful twist.

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

4 cups celery, chopped
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup walnuts, chopped (optional)
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Instructions

Steps to Make Creamy Celery Salad

Prepare the Celery

Chop the celery into bite-sized pieces and place them in a mixing bowl.

Mix the Dressing

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

Combine Ingredients

Pour the dressing over the chopped celery and toss well to coat.

Add Walnuts

If using, add the chopped walnuts and mix gently.

Serve

Chill for 15 minutes, then serve cold as a side dish or light meal.

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding diced apples or some grated cheese. Make sure to serve the salad chilled for the best taste experience.

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Celery Salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish, making it a versatile side dish for summer barbecues. You can also serve it in lettuce wraps for a fun twist on a light lunch. I love adding colorful cherry tomatoes or diced bell peppers to the mix for an added pop of color and flavor.

For a more substantial meal, consider adding protein like diced chicken or chickpeas to the salad, transforming it into a filling main dish. Just be sure to adjust the amount of dressing if you’re adding extra ingredients to maintain the creamy texture.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This salad is fantastic for meal prep due to its robust nature. You can make it up to a day in advance; just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld beautifully, and the celery will stay crisp. If you plan to make it ahead of time, wait to add the walnuts until just before serving to keep them crunchy.

If you have leftovers, consume them within three days for the best quality. Be mindful that while the dressing will keep the celery fresh, over time some moisture may accumulate in the container. Stirring it gently before serving can help reincorporate the dressing evenly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, this salad can be made a day ahead. Just keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to serve.

→ What can I substitute for mayonnaise?

Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo makes a great substitute for a lighter option!

→ How long can I store the celery salad?

It can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients used in this salad are gluten-free.