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 of fresh celery, chopped; 1/2 cup of mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon of lemon juice; 1/4 cup of chopped green onions; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Freshly Wholesome

I absolutely love making this Creamy Celery Salad with Mayo, especially on warm days when I crave something refreshing. The crunch of the fresh celery combined with the creamy mayo dressing creates a delightful contrast that is just irresistible. It's a quick and easy recipe that can be served as a side dish or even as a light lunch on its own. This salad comes together in no time and is perfect for picnics or potlucks, showcasing simple flavors that anyone can enjoy.

Created by

Lacey Montgomery

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:07:14.890Z

When I first tried making this Creamy Celery Salad, I was amazed at how such simple ingredients could come together to create something so delicious. The trick is to let the flavors meld for a bit before serving, which really enhances the overall taste. I usually make it a couple of hours ahead of time so it has time to chill in the fridge.

One specific detail I learned is to choose crisp, fresh celery for the best texture. I often pair this salad with grilled chicken or serve it on a bed of greens, making it a versatile dish for many occasions. It's become a staple in my meal rotation!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Crisp and refreshing flavors balance perfectly with creamy mayonnaise
Versatile enough to pair with a variety of dishes
Quick to prepare, making it an ideal side for any meal

      

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh celery is key to the success of this Creamy Celery Salad. Look for stalks that are vibrant green and firm to the touch, as wilted or discolored celery can compromise the salad's crisp texture. Freshness also enhances the salad's flavor, creating an enjoyable crunch with each bite. If you have access to organic celery, it can elevate the taste even further.

Green onions not only add color but also a mild onion flavor that complements the salad beautifully. If you're in a pinch, chives can serve as a suitable substitute, providing a similar flavor profile without overpowering the dish. Just remember to use them sparingly, as their taste can be more intense.

Mastering the Dressing

The combination of mayonnaise and lemon juice serves as the backbone of the dressing, balancing richness with acidity. When mixing, aim for a creamy, smooth consistency that clings to the vegetables without being overly runny. If you want to lighten it up, Greek yogurt can be a fantastic substitute for half of the mayonnaise, adding tang while reducing calories.

As you prepare the dressing, taste as you go. Adjusting the acidity with more lemon juice can really enhance the salad's brightness, especially if the celery is particularly sweet. Don't hesitate to experiment with additional flavorings like garlic powder or a pinch of paprika for an extra depth of flavor.

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

4 cups of fresh celery, chopped
1/2 cup of mayonnaise
1 tablespoon of lemon juice
1/4 cup of chopped green onions
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Start by washing and chopping the celery into bite-sized pieces. Also, dice the green onions and set them aside.

Mix the Dressing

In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise and lemon juice. Stir until smooth.

Combine Everything

Add the chopped celery and green onions to the bowl with the dressing. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly coated.

Season the Salad

Taste the salad and add salt and pepper as needed. Adjust the lemon juice for extra brightness if desired.

Chill and Serve

Cover the salad and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to blend.

Pro Tips

For a twist, try adding diced apples or nuts for extra crunch and flavor. Also, using Greek yogurt instead of mayo can lighten it up while adding protein.

Make-Ahead Tips

This Creamy Celery Salad is an excellent choice for meal prep. You can prepare it up to a day in advance; just be sure to keep it covered and refrigerated. The longer it sits, the more the flavors meld, making it even more delicious. However, for best texture, avoid adding the dressing until just before serving if you plan to store it for a longer period.

If you're bringing this dish to a potluck or picnic, consider packing the salad in a cooler with ice packs to keep it fresh. This ensures that the mayonnaise remains safe to eat and prevents the celery from losing its delightful crunch.

Flavor Variations

Feel free to get creative with this salad! You can add diced apples or grapes for a sweet twist, or incorporate toasted nuts for an extra crunch. If you're in the mood for a bit of spice, finely chopped jalapeños can add a pleasant heat that pairs well with the creaminess of the dressing.

Additionally, try swapping out the green onions for other fresh herbs like dill or parsley. These herbs can infuse a different flavor profile into the salad and complement the earthy notes of the celery beautifully, making it a lovely seasonal dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! It's actually better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together.

→ What can I serve this salad with?

This celery salad pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or even as a filling for wraps.

→ How long will it last in the fridge?

The salad will last for about 3 to 5 days in the fridge if stored in an airtight container.

→ Can I use other vegetables in this salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add diced carrots, bell peppers, or even some fresh herbs for additional flavors.