Celery Salad With Yogurt Dressing

Name: Celery Salad With Yogurt Dressing
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 large celery stalks, chopped; 1 medium carrot, grated; 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1 cup plain yogurt; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy Comfort Foods

I absolutely love how refreshing and crunchy this Celery Salad With Yogurt Dressing is! Every bite bursts with freshness, thanks to the crisp celery and creamy yogurt dressing. This dish is perfect for hot summer days or as a light side option for any meal. I particularly enjoy how easy it is to whip up, making it a go-to recipe for impromptu gatherings. The combination of flavors is simple yet satisfying, and I can hardly resist going back for seconds!

Created by

Imogen Price

Last updated on 2026-02-06T17:41:36.683Z

When I first decided to make this celery salad, I wanted something light yet delicious. The yogurt dressing adds a creamy touch that perfectly complements the natural crunch of fresh celery. I remember chopping the vegetables and quickly tossing them together; it was as simple as that! This recipe quickly became a staple in my house.

One tip I learned along the way is to let the salad sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Each forkful is not just refreshing but also a reminder of how simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors when paired well.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Crisp and refreshing texture of celery for a delightful crunch
Creamy yogurt dressing that elevates the dish
Quick and easy to prepare - perfect for busy weeknights

Understanding the Ingredients

The salad relies heavily on fresh ingredients, particularly the celery, which provides a delightful crunch. Choosing crisp, firm celery stalks is crucial; look for ones that are bright green and free of blemishes. The grated carrot adds a touch of natural sweetness and vibrant color, enhancing both the aesthetic and taste of the dish. Fresh parsley not only adds a pop of green but also offers a subtle herbaceous note that complements the other ingredients beautifully.

For the yogurt dressing, plain yogurt is essential as it provides a creamy base that binds the flavors together without overpowering them. Greek yogurt can be used for an even thicker texture, which adds to the overall richness of the dish. If you prefer a dairy-free version, swap the yogurt with a plant-based alternative, such as coconut yogurt, and adjust the seasoning accordingly to balance any extra sweetness.

Technique Tips

When making the yogurt dressing, whisking is key to achieving a smooth consistency. Start by incorporating the lemon juice and olive oil slowly into the yogurt, blending well after each addition. This method prevents any lumps and ensures a creamy, cohesive dressing that clings to the salad ingredients. Seasoning should be done at the end, allowing you to adjust the salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.

Incorporating the dressing into the salad can be done in a couple of ways. For a lighter touch, drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. This method allows each piece to be lightly coated. If you prefer a more abundant dressing, you can mix it directly with the salad in the large bowl until everything is well combined. Just be cautious not to over-toss, as this could break down the celery and result in a less appealing texture.

Ingredients for Celery Salad With Yogurt Dressing

Salad Ingredients

4 large celery stalks, chopped
1 medium carrot, grated
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Yogurt Dressing Ingredients

1 cup plain yogurt
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix the salad and dressing just before serving for freshness!

Instructions

Prepare the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the chopped celery, grated carrot, red onion, and parsley. Toss well to combine.

Make the Dressing

In a separate bowl, whisk together the yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Combine Salad and Dressing

Pour the yogurt dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.

Serve

Let the salad sit for a few minutes before serving to enhance the flavors. Enjoy your refreshing celery salad!

Serve chilled or at room temperature. Perfect as a side or a light main dish!

Pro Tips

For added crunch, try adding chopped nuts or seeds. You can also substitute the plain yogurt with Greek yogurt for a thicker consistency.

Serving Suggestions

This celery salad can be served as a standalone dish or alongside grilled meats for a refreshing contrast. It pairs exceptionally well with chicken or fish, providing a crisp and tangy element to balance rich flavors. For an added twist, consider tossing in some toasted nuts or seeds for extra crunch and a nutty flavor, or sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese for a creamy addition.

For gatherings, this salad can be a colorful centerpiece on the table. To elevate the presentation, serve it in a clear glass bowl, allowing the vibrant colors of the carrots, celery, and parsley to shine through. I like to garnish with a few extra parsley leaves or a drizzle of olive oil on top just before serving to give it a polished finish.

Make-Ahead Tips

This salad is ideal for meal prep, as its flavors improve after sitting for a while. You can prepare the salad ingredients a day ahead, combine them in the bowl, and store them covered in the refrigerator. However, keep the yogurt dressing separate and mix it in just before serving to maintain the crisp texture of the vegetables. The salad can last for about 2-3 days when stored correctly, but it’s best enjoyed fresh to avoid sogginess.

If you're planning to scale the recipe for a larger gathering, simply multiply the ingredient quantities accordingly. Ensure you have a sufficiently large bowl for mixing, as the salad can quickly become quite voluminous. Adjust the seasoning of the dressing based on the quantity; a good rule of thumb is to taste as you go and account for the increased volume to maintain balance throughout the dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients in advance but mix the dressing just before serving to keep the salad fresh.

→ Can I use different vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers.

→ Is this salad vegan?

It can be made vegan by substituting yogurt with a plant-based yogurt alternative.

→ How long will leftovers last?

Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days, though they are best enjoyed fresh.