Creamy Celery Salad With Parmesan

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

Highlighted under: Fresh & Fit Plates

I’ve always been a fan of salads that pack a flavorful punch, and this Creamy Celery Salad with Parmesan does just that. The crispness of the celery paired with the creamy dressing and salty Parmesan creates an unforgettable experience. I love how quick and easy it is to whip up, making it a perfect side dish for any meal or a refreshing snack on warmer days. Plus, it’s a great way to incorporate crunch and texture into my diet without sacrificing taste.

Created by

Fiona Carter

Last updated on 2026-01-24T12:13:24.976Z

When I first tasted a creamy celery salad, I wasn’t sure what to expect. However, the combination of crunchy celery and rich dressing surprised me with its delightful contrast. I intentionally added a sprinkle of lemon juice to brighten up the flavors and elevate the dish in a way that feels fresh and lively.

What I love about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize it with nuts or other greens to suit your taste. The Parmesan cheese adds depth and saltiness, which emphasizes the salad's delightful creaminess without overwhelming the palate. Trust me, this recipe is bound to impress at your next gathering!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Crisp celery adds a refreshing crunch
Creamy dressing elevates every bite
Parmesan cheese provides a savory kick

Exploring Celery's Unique Flavor

Celery might seem like a simple ingredient, but its crispness and refreshing flavor provide a fantastic base for this salad. When selecting celery, look for vibrant green stalks that are firm and free from blemishes. This ensures you get the crunch and sweetness that complement the creaminess of the dressing. I love using the inner stalks with leaves, as they tend to be more tender and flavorful, adding to the overall taste profile of the salad.

A quick tip: chop the celery into uniform pieces to ensure even coating with the dressing. This not only improves the presentation but also provides consistent crunch in every bite. If you want to enhance the flavor further, consider marinating the chopped celery in the lemon juice for about 10 minutes before mixing in the other ingredients. This subtle process elevates the taste while maintaining the salad's freshness.

The Role of Parmesan and Nutty Walnuts

Parmesan cheese is not just a topping in this recipe; it plays a critical role in elevating the overall flavor profile. Opt for freshly grated Parmesan over pre-packaged varieties, as it melts and integrates better with the other components. The salty, nutty flavor of the cheese melds beautifully with the creamy dressing, creating a savory depth that’s hard to resist. If you're in a pinch, Pecorino Romano is a great substitute, adding a sharper, more robust flavor.

Incorporating walnuts offers an additional layer of texture and taste. Their mild earthiness complements the crunch of the celery while introducing a nutty richness. If you’re looking for a nut-free version or a different flavor, toasted sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds can be excellent alternatives. Just remember to keep the nuts or seeds unsalted to balance the saltiness of the Parmesan effectively.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create a delicious Creamy Celery Salad with Parmesan.

For the Salad

4 cups celery, chopped
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup walnuts, chopped (optional)

For the Dressing

1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons sour cream
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

Once you have everything prepared, you're ready to bring this salad to life!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Creamy Celery Salad with Parmesan.

Prepare the Dressing

In a bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper. Mix well until smooth.

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix the chopped celery, Parmesan cheese, red onion, and walnuts. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until evenly coated.

Chill and Serve

Let the salad rest in the refrigerator for at least 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Serve chilled and enjoy this creamy delight as a side or light meal!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add other ingredients like apples or cranberries for a touch of sweetness. This salad is best served fresh, but it can stay in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Creamy Celery Salad is a fantastic make-ahead dish! You can prepare the salad and dressing separately a few hours in advance, storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Just be sure to add the dressing to the salad just before serving to maintain the crispness of the celery. If you prepare it the night before, the flavors will meld beautifully, but the celery might lose some crunchiness.

When stored properly in the fridge, leftovers can last up to three days. If you notice the celery becoming limp, consider reviving it by soaking it in cold water for about 10 minutes before serving again. This simple trick helps maintain the freshness without sacrificing flavor.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This salad pairs wonderfully with a variety of main dishes, especially grilled proteins like chicken or fish. It also works well as a light lunch with a slice of whole-grain bread. For a more robust meal, serve it atop mixed greens to create a more substantial salad option that can be enjoyed with or without additional proteins.

For those looking to mix things up, try adding diced apples or pears for a sweet contrast, or toss in some dried cranberries for a chewy texture. Experimenting with herbs like dill or basil can also provide a refreshing twist to the flavor, making this salad versatile for any palate.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. Just keep it covered in the fridge until you're ready to serve.

→ What can I substitute for mayonnaise?

You can use Greek yogurt or a vegan mayonnaise for a lighter version of the dressing.

→ Is this salad suitable for a vegetarian diet?

Absolutely! Just ensure the cheese you use is rennet-free if you're serving vegetarians.

→ Can I add other vegetables to this salad?

Definitely! Feel free to add cucumbers, bell peppers, or even shredded carrots for extra crunch.