Creamy Celery Salad With Mayo

Name: Creamy Celery Salad With Mayo
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups celery, chopped; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon celery salt; 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped; 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped (optional); Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Fresh & Fit Meals

I love making this Creamy Celery Salad with Mayo for its light and refreshing taste that brightens up any meal. It's the perfect combination of crunchiness from the celery and creaminess from the mayo, making it an irresistible side dish at picnics or family gatherings. The addition of a few surprising ingredients brings an extra layer of flavor that keeps everyone guessing. Whether you serve it alongside grilled meats or on its own, this salad always leaves me craving seconds.

Created by

Delilah Spencer

Last updated on 2026-01-24T10:37:11.281Z

When I first tried making a celery salad, I had no idea the outcome would be so delightful. The crunch of the celery perfectly complemented the creamy mayonnaise, but it was the inclusion of a little lemon juice that truly elevated the dish. It added a refreshing citrus note that balanced the richness and kept everything vibrant.

As I experimented with different seasonings, I discovered that a pinch of celery salt brings out the natural flavors beautifully. It's a simple twist that makes a world of difference, transforming raw veggies into a delectable salad that serves as a fantastic side or a light meal.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Crisp and refreshing celery paired with rich mayonnaise
Easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion
Can be customized with your favorite ingredients

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh celery is crucial for achieving the optimal crunch and flavor in this salad. When selecting celery, look for stalks that are firm and green without any signs of wilting or browning. Freshness can dramatically enhance the overall taste, transforming your salad from mundane to extraordinary. If you're feeling adventurous, consider using rainbow or organic celery for unique colors and flavors that will captivate your guests.

The mayonnaise plays a vital role in creating the creamy texture of this dish. For a lighter version, you could substitute regular mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo. Each alternative will impart a slightly different flavor profile, with Greek yogurt adding a tangy note. Additionally, experiment with flavored mayonnaises, such as garlic or herb-infused varieties, for an unexpected twist.

Customizing Your Salad

One of the great things about this Creamy Celery Salad is its versatility. While the base is simple, feel free to customize with ingredients that you love. Diced apples or grapes can add a hint of sweetness, while a sprinkle of crumbled feta or goat cheese introduces a savory element. If you like heat, consider adding finely diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing for a zesty kick.

For a gluten-free option, ensure your mayonnaise is certified gluten-free and keep an eye on any additional mixes you might incorporate. You can also incorporate other crunchy vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers for variation—just make sure to keep the ratios balanced so the celery remains the star of the show.

Ingredients

Creamy Celery Salad Ingredients

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

Mix all the ingredients in a bowl to combine.

Instructions

Prepare the Celery

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

Mix the Dressing

In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, lemon juice, celery salt, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.

Combine and Serve

Pour the dressing over the celery and add red onion and walnuts. Toss everything together well, and enjoy your salad!

Refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving for best flavor.

Pro Tips

For an extra crunch, consider adding diced apples or grapes for a sweet twist.

Make-Ahead Tips

This Creamy Celery Salad can be made ahead of time, making it a great choice for meal planning or large gatherings. To maintain the crisp texture of the celery, mix the dressing separately and combine just before serving. If prepared in advance, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. However, avoid adding nuts or other crunchy elements until right before serving to prevent them from becoming soggy.

If you're planning on storing leftovers, it's best to keep them in a separate container from the crunchy toppings. Reheating is not recommended as the salad is best enjoyed cold, so consider it a refreshing side dish that can easily complement various meals throughout the week.

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Celery Salad pairs beautifully with a range of dishes, particularly grilled meats like chicken or steak. The cooling effect of the salad complements the smoky flavors of grilled foods perfectly. For a lighter meal, serve it alongside roasted vegetables or on a bed of mixed greens for an easy, nutritious lunch.

For a fun twist, use the salad as a filling in lettuce wraps with slices of turkey or ham. This transforms your salad into a portable meal that is ideal for picnics or lunches. You can even take it up a notch by serving in endive spears for a pretty, bite-sized appetizer at gatherings.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance; just store it in the fridge, and it will taste even better after the flavors meld.

→ Is there a vegan alternative for mayo?

Absolutely! You can use vegan mayonnaise or a mixture of avocado and lemon juice for a creamy texture.

→ What can I serve this salad with?

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, sandwiches, or can be served as a light lunch on its own.

→ Can I add more ingredients to this salad?

Definitely! Feel free to toss in diced apples, raisins, or even shredded carrots for added sweetness and texture.