Celery Salad With Mayo

Name: Celery Salad With Mayo
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups of celery, chopped; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste; Optional: chopped nuts or diced apples

Highlighted under: Simple Healthy Meals Inspiration

I absolutely love making Celery Salad with Mayo for a refreshing side dish that’s both crunchy and creamy. The combination of crisp celery with a tangy mayo dressing always brightens up my meals, whether it’s a casual lunch or a dinner party. Preparing this salad is quick and easy, taking only a few minutes. Plus, it’s a great way to use up celery that might be lingering in the fridge. Trust me, once you give this a try, it will become a staple in your kitchen!

Created by

Kate Phillips

Last updated on 2026-01-24T14:03:34.683Z

When I first made Celery Salad with Mayo, I was surprised by how many people loved it. I played with the dressing ingredients to achieve the perfect balance of creaminess and tang. Adding a splash of lemon juice gave it a lovely brightness that made the flavors pop. I often bring this salad to gatherings, and it’s always a hit!

One of my favorite tips is to add a few chopped nuts for extra crunch, or even some diced apples for a hint of sweetness. This versatility keeps things interesting, and I always enjoy experimenting with this base recipe!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Crisp texture of fresh celery paired with creamy mayo
Quick and easy to prepare in just 10 minutes
Perfect versatility for picnics, potlucks, and barbecues

Choosing the Right Celery

When selecting celery for your salad, look for firm, crisp stalks with vibrant green leaves. Freshness is key; wilted or discolored celery can affect both the texture and taste of your salad. If possible, opt for organic celery as it typically has a richer flavor and a crunchier texture, making your salad more delightful.

Additionally, the age of your celery can influence the final dish. Older stalks may be more fibrous and less flavorful. Keep that in mind if you have celery that has been in your fridge for a while. To combat this, you can peel away the tough outer layer to reveal the tender inner stalks, providing a better bite.

Enhancing Flavor with Variations

While the recipe simply calls for mayonnaise, you can easily elevate the flavor by mixing in some Greek yogurt or sour cream. This not only adds creaminess but also introduces a tangy depth that can enhance the entire salad. Experiment with different mayonnaise flavors, such as garlic or chipotle, for a unique twist.

For added texture and flavor, consider incorporating herbs such as dill or parsley. These fresh herbs will give your salad a bright note and can complement the taste of celery beautifully. If you’re feeling adventurous, a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika can add a subtle kick.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare your Celery Salad with Mayo:

Main Ingredients

4 cups of celery, chopped
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: chopped nuts or diced apples

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Celery Salad with Mayo:

Prepare Celery

Start by thoroughly washing the celery stalks and chopping them into bite-sized pieces. The crunchiness of fresh celery is what makes this salad so delightful!

Mix Dressing

In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir until well blended to create a creamy dressing.

Combine Salad

Add the chopped celery to the bowl with the dressing and mix until every piece is coated. If using, fold in optional ingredients like nuts or apples.

Serve

Once everything is combined, transfer the salad to a serving dish. You can enjoy it immediately, but letting it sit in the fridge for 30 minutes enhances the flavors further.

Enjoy your delicious and refreshing Celery Salad!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider mixing in a handful of diced green onions or some chopped fresh herbs like dill or parsley. Adjust seasoning as per your taste preferences.

Storage Tips

Celery Salad with Mayo is best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to store leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will maintain the salad's crunch for up to 2 days. However, be mindful that the celery may soften over time, so it's best to enjoy it early.

If you're planning to make this salad ahead of time, consider storing the celery and dressing separately. Combine them just before serving to preserve the salad's texture. You can prepare the celery a day in advance and keep it in a zip-top bag with a paper towel to absorb moisture, which will keep it crisp.

Serving Suggestions

This Celery Salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or sandwiches, making it an ideal side for summer barbecues or picnics. To elevate your presentation, consider serving it in a hollowed-out bell pepper or accompanied by a bed of leafy greens. This not only adds color but also provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy salad.

If you’re catering for larger gatherings, feel free to scale up the recipe. Simply increase the ingredients proportionally, but be mindful to adjust the seasoning to taste. Always taste before serving, as larger quantities may require a bit more dressing or seasoning to achieve the perfect balance.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.

→ What can I substitute for mayo?

You can use Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo for a lighter or plant-based option.

→ Is this salad suitable for a picnic?

Absolutely! Just keep it chilled in a cooler until you're ready to serve.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Of course! Chopped bell peppers, carrots, or cucumbers can add great texture and flavor.