Celery Salad With Yogurt Dressing

Name: Celery Salad With Yogurt Dressing
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups celery, chopped; 1 cup plain Greek yogurt; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon honey (optional)

Highlighted under: Daily Cooking

I absolutely love making this Celery Salad with Yogurt Dressing because it's a refreshing and healthy dish that brightens up any meal. The crispness of the celery combined with the creamy yogurt dressing creates a delightful texture that is both satisfying and guilt-free. It's the perfect side salad for those warm days when you crave something light yet flavorful. In just 20 minutes, you can whip up this vibrant salad that everyone will enjoy at your next gathering or family dinner.

Created by

Saskia Morton

Last updated on 2026-01-24T09:17:34.588Z

Creating this Celery Salad with Yogurt Dressing was an exciting culinary experiment for me. I wanted to find a way to elevate simple celery, a vegetable that often gets overlooked. By using a tangy yogurt dressing instead of mayonnaise, I kept the salad light yet full of flavor, and it turned out to be a game changer! The addition of lemon zest and dill brought out the freshness of the celery beautifully.

Another delightful surprise was the crunch from the celery! I initially thought it might be too plain, but the creamy dressing perfectly complemented its crispness. This salad has become my go-to recipe, and it's a hit during summer picnics. I recommend serving it chilled for the best experience!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Crisp and refreshing with every bite
Creamy yogurt dressing without the heaviness
Quick and easy, perfect for on-the-go meals

      

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

When making Celery Salad with Yogurt Dressing, the freshness of your ingredients plays a crucial role in the overall flavor and texture. Choose crisp, bright green celery stalks that are firm to the touch. Avoid any with brown spots or wilting, as these can affect the salad’s freshness. For the best results, consider using organic produce, which can enhance the taste and nutrient profile of your dish.

Similarly, the quality of your Greek yogurt can elevate this salad significantly. Opt for a full-fat or low-fat yogurt based on your dietary preference, but be sure it’s plain with no added sugars. This base will complement the tartness of the lemon juice and the aromatic freshness of the dill, resulting in a balanced dressing. Remember, the dressing should be creamy yet light, so choose a yogurt with a smooth consistency.

Customizing Your Salad

One of the beautiful aspects of this Celery Salad is its versatility. Feel free to customize it by adding other crunchy vegetables like diced bell peppers, grated carrots, or even chopped cucumber. Each addition can bring a unique texture and flavor, making the dish even more colorful and nutritious. For an extra protein boost, consider incorporating white beans or chickpeas, which can make the salad more filling without compromising its lightness.

If you're looking to enhance the flavor profile further, try experimenting with different herbs. While fresh dill is a classic choice, you could also use parsley, cilantro, or chives depending on your taste preference. These herbs can introduce new dimensions to your yogurt dressing, making it even more refreshing and suitable for different meals.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients for a delicious Celery Salad with Yogurt Dressing:

Ingredients

4 cups celery, chopped
1 cup plain Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon honey (optional)

Make sure to wash the celery thoroughly before chopping!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to prepare your salad:

Prepare the Celery

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

Make the Dressing

In a separate bowl, mix the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, dill, salt, and pepper. If you want a touch of sweetness, add honey and stir well.

Combine and Serve

Pour the yogurt dressing over the chopped celery and toss until evenly coated. Chill in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes before serving.

Serve chilled as a side dish or light lunch!

Pro Tips

For extra crunch, consider adding chopped nuts or apples to the salad for a fun texture and flavor contrast.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

This Celery Salad with Yogurt Dressing is best enjoyed fresh, but it can also be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To prevent the celery from becoming soggy, consider keeping the dressing separate until just before serving. If you prefer a more intense flavor, allowing the salad to sit for a few hours allows the ingredients to meld wonderfully. However, keep in mind that the crunchy texture of the celery may diminish over time.

When it comes to serving, this salad shines as a side dish alongside grilled meats, sandwiches, or even as part of a light lunch spread. You can serve it in individual bowls or as a larger communal dish, garnished with additional fresh herbs or a sprinkle of lemon zest for a pop of color.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue when making a yogurt dressing is achieving the right balance of acidity and creaminess. If your dressing turns out too tart, you can adjust it by gradually adding more honey to mellow the flavors. Conversely, if it's too sweet or heavy, a splash more lemon juice can help bring it back into balance. Tasting as you go will ensure that your dressing hits all the right notes.

Another potential hurdle involves the texture of the salad. If you find the celery becoming too mushy, it's often a sign that the dressing was added too early. To avoid this, prepare the dressing separately and mix it with the celery only shortly before serving. This way, you maintain that satisfying crunch that makes the salad so appealing.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use another type of yogurt?

Yes, you can use any plain yogurt, such as almond or soy yogurt for a dairy-free option.

→ How long can I store this salad?

This salad is best eaten fresh, but you can store it in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

→ What can I serve this salad with?

It pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish, or you can enjoy it as a light lunch by itself.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, cucumbers, or even carrots for more variety.