Creamy Celery Salad With Parmesan

Name: Creamy Celery Salad With Parmesan
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 large stalks of celery, sliced; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1/4 cup sour cream; 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste; Optional: chopped walnuts or pecans for garnish

Highlighted under: Simple Collection

When the weather warms up, I love fresh salads that are both creamy and crunchy. This Creamy Celery Salad with Parmesan has become a staple at my gatherings. The crispness of the celery combined with the rich creaminess makes it a delightful dish that surprises everyone. I enjoy customizing it with different herbs or adding a sprinkle of nuts for extra texture. It's quick to prepare and bursting with flavor, making it the perfect side for any occasion.

Created by

Loretta Winslow

Last updated on 2026-01-24T14:35:34.373Z

I often find myself experimenting with different salad recipes, and this one stood out for its simplicity and elegance. The creaminess from the dressing perfectly coats the crisp celery, creating a delightful texture. I never underestimate the impact of high-quality Parmesan, as it elevates the dish beautifully, adding a savory note that contrasts with the freshness of the vegetables.

One tip that truly makes the difference is to let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. The crunch of celery and the rich cream – it’s a pairing that will leave your guests asking for more!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Crisp celery perfectly complements the creamy dressing
Savory Parmesan adds a rich depth of flavor
Quick and simple, perfect for any gathering

      

Unlocking Flavors with Fresh Ingredients

The star of this Creamy Celery Salad is undeniably the fresh celery. Choose crisp, bright green stalks with tight leaves for the best texture and flavor. Avoid any that have wilted or discolored leaves; these can introduce unwanted bitterness. Fresh celery contributes not only a satisfying crunch but also a subtle earthiness that pairs beautifully with the creaminess of the dressing.

Using high-quality mayonnaise is crucial for achieving the desired creaminess. A creamy, rich mayonnaise enhances the overall mouthfeel of the salad, while sour cream introduces a welcome tang that balances the richness of the Parmesan. For a lighter version, consider substituting Greek yogurt for the mayonnaise, which adds creaminess while offering a dose of protein.

Perfecting Texture and Presentation

Achieving the right balance of textures is essential in this salad. The celery should be crunchy and vibrant, while the dressing should coat it lightly without overpowering it. To ensure even coating, mix the dressing thoroughly before adding the celery. This prevents any clumpy bits of dressing and guarantees every bite has flavor.

For an impressive presentation, consider serving your salad in a chilled bowl or on a bed of leafy greens. The contrast of the creamy dressing against the bright green celery makes the dish visually appealing. Adding a sprinkle of chopped nuts not only enhances the aesthetic but also introduces an additional crunch that elevates the experience.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to prepare your delicious Creamy Celery Salad:

Ingredients

4 large stalks of celery, sliced
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup sour cream
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: chopped walnuts or pecans for garnish

Mix these ingredients for a flavorful and easy salad experience!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Creamy Celery Salad:

Prepare the Dressing

In a bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and lemon juice. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Toss the Celery

Add the sliced celery to the dressing and fold gently to coat each piece evenly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the salad for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Garnish with chopped walnuts or pecans, if desired.

Enjoy your refreshing and creamy salad!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add in other ingredients like diced apples or raisins for a fruity twist.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Creamy Celery Salad can be made ahead of time, making it a perfect addition to potlucks or gatherings. Prepare the salad up to 24 hours in advance but wait to add any nuts or garnishes until you're ready to serve to maintain their crunchiness. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh.

If you plan on saving leftovers, note that the celery may soften after prolonged exposure to the dressing. To maintain the crispness, consider storing the dressing separately. Simply mix it in with the celery fresh when you're ready to enjoy it again, which will help retain the salad's original texture.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize this salad to suit your taste preferences! For a Mediterranean twist, add diced sun-dried tomatoes and capers to the mix, or swap the Parmesan for feta cheese. Fresh herbs like dill or chives can also introduce vibrant notes that complement the celery beautifully.

If you're looking for a bit more protein, incorporating shredded chicken or chickpeas can turn this salad into a satisfying main dish. Just be sure to adjust the dressing quantities, as denser ingredients might require a bit more to achieve a consistent flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance; just keep it refrigerated until ready to serve.

→ What other ingredients can I add?

You can add finely chopped onions, apples, or even grapes to enhance the flavor.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and consume within two days for the best freshness.

→ Is there a substitute for mayonnaise?

Yes, you can use Greek yogurt as a healthier alternative to mayonnaise.