Celery Salad With Mayo

Name: Celery Salad With Mayo
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups fresh celery, chopped; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Clean Healthy Meals Ideas

I absolutely love making this Celery Salad with Mayo! It’s a simple and refreshing dish that always hits the spot during warm weather. The crisp texture of the celery combined with the creamy mayo creates a delightful contrast. This recipe is perfect for picnics or as a quick side dish for any meal. I often find myself craving it as a light lunch option, and it’s incredibly easy to whip up. It’s a classic that never goes out of style and always satisfies my hunger for something crunchy and satisfying.

Created by

Olivia Martin

Last updated on 2026-01-24T12:47:35.397Z

When I first made this Celery Salad with Mayo, I was surprised by how quickly it came together. Celery is often underappreciated, but in this salad, it really shines. The addition of creamy mayonnaise brings a richness that makes each bite satisfying. I also love adding a splash of lemon juice for a zesty kick that elevates the flavors even more.

Over the years, I’ve perfected my technique by ensuring my celery is perfectly crisp. This means choosing fresh, firm celery and cutting it into uniform pieces, which not only looks appealing but also ensures even dressing. Trust me; this small detail makes all the difference!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Crunchy texture that keeps you coming back for more
Creamy dressing that perfectly complements the celery
Quick and easy to prepare, ideal for any occasion

Understanding the Ingredients

The star of this Celery Salad is undoubtedly the fresh celery. Selecting crisp, vibrant celery stalks enhances the salad's texture and flavor. When chopped, the celery should retain a satisfying crunch, providing a refreshing contrast to the creamy mayonnaise dressing. For added sweetness and color, consider substituting a few stalks of celery with thinly sliced apple or pear. This not only brings diversity in texture but also a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with the tangy dressing.

Mayonnaise is the key component in the dressing, creating that signature creaminess. Opt for a good-quality mayonnaise with a balanced flavor; it should be creamy, yet not overpowering. If you're looking for a lighter alternative, Greek yogurt can serve as a great substitute. It adds a tangy taste and a rich consistency while reducing calories. Whether you go the traditional route or experiment with yogurt, ensure the dressing is well-combined for an inviting flavor profile.

Perfecting the Preparation

A crucial step in achieving the best flavor is letting the salad chill. Resting it in the refrigerator for at least 10 minutes allows the ingredients to mingle, making every bite burst with flavor. For optimal results, prepare the salad an hour ahead of serving. This not only helps the flavors develop further but ensures you will have a cool and refreshing dish ready to delight your guests on a warm day.

While mixing, be cautious not to over-toss the salad once the dressing is added. Gently fold the ingredients to prevent the celery from becoming mushy and to maintain that delightful crunch. Visually, you'll want to see each piece of celery nicely coated but not drenched. This attention to texture will make your salad more appealing and enjoyable.

Ingredients

Ingredients:

Celery Salad Ingredients

4 cups fresh celery, chopped
1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix well and enjoy!

Instructions

Instructions:

Prepare the Celery

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

Mix the Dressing

In a separate bowl, combine the mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth.

Combine Ingredients

Add the chopped celery and red onion to the bowl with the dressing. Toss until all ingredients are evenly coated.

Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the salad for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled.

Perfect for a quick lunch or picnic side!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding chopped nuts or diced apples for a delightful crunch!

Serving Suggestions

This Celery Salad with Mayo serves as a versatile side dish that pairs well with various main courses. It's excellent alongside grilled chicken, sandwiches, or even burgers, adding a crunchy element to any meal. To elevate your serving, consider garnishing with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill; their bright flavors will enhance the overall taste and presentation of the dish.

Alternatively, if you're looking for a lighter lunch option, serve the salad inside lettuce wraps or atop whole-grain crackers. This not only presents beautifully but gives you an added dimension of crunch. For a picnic-ready version, portion the salad into mason jars. Layer them by placing the celery on the bottom and dressing on top, keeping everything fresh until you're ready to enjoy.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the great things about this Celery Salad is its make-ahead capability. You can prepare the salad a day in advance; however, for optimal freshness, store the celery and dressing separately until you're ready to serve. This keeps the celery crisp and prevents it from becoming soggy. Keep the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it should remain fresh for up to 2 days.

If you have leftovers, they can be repurposed creatively. Try adding them to a wrap or mixing them into a grain salad the next day. You might also pair it with pasta for a refreshing twist. Just ensure to give it a good stir and check for seasoning before serving, as flavors can mellow in the fridge.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a few hours in advance, but it’s best to serve it fresh.

→ What can I substitute for mayonnaise?

You can use Greek yogurt or a plant-based mayo alternative for a lighter version.

→ Is there a way to add protein to this salad?

Definitely! You can add shredded chicken, tuna, or chickpeas for more substance.

→ How long does this salad keep in the fridge?

It will stay fresh for about 2 to 3 days in an airtight container.