Celery Crunch Salad With Yogurt

Name: Celery Crunch Salad With Yogurt
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 stalks celery, chopped; 1 cup plain yogurt; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 apple, diced (optional); Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Fresh & Nourishing

I absolutely love making this Celery Crunch Salad with Yogurt for a refreshing and nutritious meal. The crispness of the celery paired with the creamy yogurt dressing creates a delightful combination that excites my taste buds. It's a breeze to whip up, and I often find myself enjoying it as a quick lunch or a side dish for dinner. Plus, it's a great way to incorporate more vegetables into my diet while keeping things light and tasty. Trust me, this salad is a hit with family and friends!

Created by

Vivienne Cole

Last updated on 2026-02-16T00:53:35.786Z

Making this Celery Crunch Salad with Yogurt has become a staple in my kitchen, especially during the warmer months. I was inspired to create this salad after tasting a similar dish at a picnic. What really makes it stand out is the combination of fresh celery, yogurt, and a hint of lemon juice. The yogurt not only adds creaminess but also a tangy flavor that perfectly complements the crunch of the celery.

One tip I discovered along the way is to let the salad sit for a few minutes before serving; this allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. I also love adding diced apples for a hint of sweetness, which pairs wonderfully with the creamy dressing. This salad is not only delicious but packed with nutrients, making it a perfect go-to for health-conscious meals!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Crisp, refreshing texture from the fresh celery
Creamy yogurt dressing that adds a delightful zing
Simple, quick preparation that's perfect for busy days

About Celery

Celery is the star ingredient in this salad, providing not only a satisfying crunch but also a wealth of health benefits. Rich in vitamins K and C, celery is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and is an excellent source of hydration due to its high water content. When selecting celery, look for firm and bright green stalks; avoid any that are wilted or blemished, as they may affect the texture and flavor of your salad.

The way you chop the celery can also influence the overall feel of the salad. For a coarser texture, cut the celery into larger pieces, which provides a hearty bite. On the other hand, chopping into smaller, uniform pieces allows for easier mixing with the yogurt dressing and a more balanced flavor throughout. Grating the celery is another option if you desire a subtler taste and a finer texture.

Enhancing the Flavor

The dressing in this celery salad is crucial for tying the flavors together. I recommend using plain yogurt, as it brings a tanginess that complements the freshness of the celery perfectly. If you want to experiment, consider substituting Greek yogurt for a thicker texture and even more protein. Adjust the amount of lemon juice according to the level of brightness you desire; a splash more can elevate the dish to new heights!

For additional flavor, consider incorporating herbs like dill or parsley into the yogurt dressing. These herbs not only add a fresh element to the dish but also increase the nutritional profile. Additionally, a dash of garlic powder or a sprinkle of paprika can bring a little heat while enhancing the overall complexity of your salad.

Ingredients

Gather the fresh ingredients for this refreshing salad:

Main Ingredients

4 stalks celery, chopped
1 cup plain yogurt
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 apple, diced (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste

Combine these ingredients for a deliciously crisp salad!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your salad:

Prepare the Ingredients

Chop the celery into bite-sized pieces and, if desired, dice the apple. In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped celery and apple.

Make the Dressing

In another bowl, mix the yogurt with lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper. Stir until smooth.

Combine the Salad

Pour the yogurt dressing over the celery and apple mixture. Toss gently to coat everything evenly.

Chill and Serve

Let the salad sit for a few minutes in the refrigerator to enhance the flavors. Serve chilled.

Enjoy your refreshing Celery Crunch Salad with Yogurt!

Pro Tips

For added crunch, you can mix in some chopped walnuts or sunflower seeds. Experiment with adding other vegetables like cucumbers or bell peppers for variety.

Make-Ahead Tips

This Celery Crunch Salad is an ideal choice for meal prep. You can prepare the ingredients in advance and store them separately to maintain their texture. Chopped celery can last in the refrigerator for about 3 to 5 days when kept in an airtight container. Similarly, the yogurt dressing can be made up to 2 days ahead; just give it a good stir before serving to re-emulsify it.

For those who like to enjoy this salad at its freshest, consider combining the celery and apple shortly before serving. While the apple adds sweetness and crunch, it does tend to brown when exposed to air. To prevent this, you can toss the diced apple with a little lemon juice before mixing it into the salad.

Serving Ideas

This salad can be enjoyed on its own as a light lunch, but it also pairs beautifully with grilled meats or as part of a potluck spread. Its refreshing crunch complements rich dishes like creamy pasta or hearty casseroles. Transform it into a full meal by adding protein, such as shredded chicken or chickpeas, to provide a more satisfying experience.

For a delightful variation, serve this salad in lettuce wraps or on whole grain bread as a sandwich. It makes for a fun and nutritious finger food idea that both kids and adults will love. I also suggest garnishing with toasted nuts or seeds, which not only adds a crunchy texture but also boosts the flavor and nutrition.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad in advance?

Yes, you can prepare it a few hours ahead, but it's best to add the yogurt dressing just before serving for maximum freshness.

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

Absolutely! All the ingredients used are naturally gluten-free.

→ What can I substitute for yogurt?

You can use a dairy-free yogurt or even a vinaigrette if you prefer a lighter dressing.

→ Can I add protein to this salad?

Definitely! You can add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or even crumbled feta cheese for extra protein.