Celery Salad With Yogurt Dressing

Name: Celery Salad With Yogurt Dressing
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups celery, sliced; 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped; 1 cup plain yogurt; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Instant Inspiration

I absolutely love this Celery Salad with Yogurt Dressing! It's a refreshing dish that perfectly balances crunchiness and creaminess. The combination of crisp celery with the zingy yogurt dressing wakes up my taste buds like no other. Whether it's a light lunch or a side dish for dinner, this salad always leaves me feeling satisfied and energized. It’s also surprisingly easy to make, making it a favorite in my kitchen for those busy days when I still want something nourishing.

Created by

Olwen Bradford

Last updated on 2026-01-24T12:33:35.217Z

When I first decided to experiment with a celery salad, I was intrigued by how well the yogurt dressing would pair with the freshness of the celery. Through trial and error, I found that adding a squeeze of lemon juice not only enhances the flavors but also keeps the salad vibrant. It totally transformed my expectations of what a simple salad could be!

This dish has become my go-to for warm days when I want something light yet satisfying. I love to play around with the herbs, often adding mint or dill for an added layer of flavor, making each batch a new experience.

What You'll Love About This Recipe
Crisp texture of fresh celery with creamy dressing
Lively flavor from herbs and lemon zest
Quick and easy preparation, perfect for any meal

Choosing the Right Celery

When making this Celery Salad, it's essential to select fresh and vibrant celery stalks. Look for celery that is firm to the touch and has bright green leaves without any discoloration or wilting. The freshness of the celery contributes significantly to the salad's crunchiness, enhancing the overall texture. If you're at the grocery store, check the base of the stalks; they should feel robust and not soggy.

If you happen to find some particularly thick or fibrous stalks, consider using the thinner inner leaves for added tenderness in your salad. This way, you’ll maintain the crispness while avoiding any stringy textures that can detract from the smooth experience of enjoying the yogurt dressing.

Perfecting the Yogurt Dressing

The yogurt dressing elevates this salad by providing a creamy yet tangy component. To achieve the perfect consistency, it's important to whisk the dressing until it's completely smooth. You might find that a balloon whisk works better than a fork, as it incorporates air and creates a lighter texture. If the dressing is too thick, consider thinning it out with a splash of water or an extra teaspoon of lemon juice, which can enhance the tanginess.

Experiment with herbs like dill or mint by adding them to the yogurt dressing; they can introduce different flavor profiles that complement the celery beautifully. Just be mindful of the balance; too many herbs can overpower the salad's freshness, so start with a small amount and adjust to your taste.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This Celery Salad with Yogurt Dressing is versatile and pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish for a refreshing meal. For added protein, consider topping the salad with grilled shrimp or chickpeas, which will also introduce a delightful texture contrast. If you’re planning to serve it as a side dish, it complements hearty entrees like roasted meats exceptionally well.

If you're looking to make this salad ahead of time, consider storing the dressing separately until you're ready to serve. This preserves the crispiness of the celery and prevents it from becoming soggy. The salad can be kept in the refrigerator for about 2-3 days; however, for the best texture and flavor, it's ideal to consume it fresh or within the first day after preparation.

Ingredients

For the Salad

4 cups celery, sliced
1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup walnuts, chopped

For the Dressing

1 cup plain yogurt
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix all ingredients together for a vibrant salad.

Instructions

Prepare the Salad Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced celery, red onion, chopped parsley, and walnuts. Toss to mix evenly.

Make the Dressing

In a separate bowl, whisk together the yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Combine and Serve

Pour the yogurt dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to coat. Serve immediately or let it chill for 15 minutes for flavors to meld.

Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try incorporating sliced apples or grapes to the mix. They add a lovely sweetness that complements the crunch of the celery.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're out of plain yogurt, you can use Greek yogurt for a thicker dressing that adds extra protein. Alternatively, a dairy-free yogurt can serve as a good substitute if you're looking for a vegan option. Just make sure to check the flavor profile, as some non-dairy yogurts can be sweeter and may require balancing with extra lemon juice or salt.

While walnuts add a lovely crunch and nutty flavor, you can easily swap them out for sunflower seeds or chopped almonds if you have nut allergies. These alternatives will still deliver a satisfying texture without compromising on taste.

Make-Ahead Tips

Preparing this celery salad can be streamlined by chopping the salad ingredients earlier in the day. Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, the celery and onion can stay crisp for several hours. Just remember to keep the dressing separate to maintain optimal freshness and prevent wilting.

For busy days, consider making a double batch of the yogurt dressing and storing it in a sealed jar. It can last up to a week in the fridge, allowing you to whip up quick salads or use it as a dip for veggies whenever you need a nutritious snack.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of yogurt?

Yes, feel free to use Greek yogurt for a thicker dressing or a dairy-free alternative like coconut yogurt.

→ How long can I store the salad?

The salad is best eaten fresh, but it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a day.

→ What can I serve this salad with?

This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish, or can be enjoyed on its own as a light lunch.

→ Can I add more vegetables to the salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, carrots, or even cucumber for extra crunch and flavor.