Celery Walnut Yogurt Salad

Name: Celery Walnut Yogurt Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups fresh celery, chopped; 1 cup walnuts, chopped; 1 cup plain yogurt; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Home Healthy Meals Favorites

I love making this Celery Walnut Yogurt Salad because it's a refreshing and healthy side dish that pairs well with any meal. The crunch of the celery combined with the creaminess of the yogurt and the nuttiness of the walnuts creates a delightful texture contrast. It's incredibly easy to prepare, taking just a few minutes, and makes for a great way to incorporate some veggies into my diet. Plus, it's a great option for gatherings as it can be made ahead of time and served chilled.

Created by

Esme Caldwell

Last updated on 2026-02-16T01:45:35.772Z

In our quest to make lighter side dishes, I stumbled upon this wonderful Celery Walnut Yogurt Salad. The combination of fresh ingredients and the creamy yogurt dressing creates a beautiful balance that brightens up any meal. The walnuts add a satisfying crunch that complements the crisp celery perfectly.

What really sets this salad apart is its versatility; you can add or substitute ingredients based on your preferences. I've even tried it with cranberries for a little sweetness. Moreover, the dressing is simple yet flavorful, making it a staple in my kitchen during the summer months.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Crisp celery adds refreshing crunch
Creamy yogurt dressing ties it all together
Nutty walnuts provide satisfying texture
Quick to prepare, perfect for busy days

The Role of Each Ingredient

Each ingredient in this Celery Walnut Yogurt Salad contributes to its unique flavor and texture profile. The fresh celery not only provides a satisfying crunch but also serves as a low-calorie base that enhances the salad’s hydration and freshness. It’s essential to choose crisp, vibrant celery stalks for optimal texture; wilted or overly fibrous celery can detract from the experience. Look for stalks with vivid green color and firm texture.

Walnuts bring a rich, nutty flavor that complements the tanginess of the yogurt. Additionally, walnuts are a great source of healthy fats and protein, making this salad not just a simple side dish but a nutritious choice as well. When chopping walnuts, aim for uneven pieces for varied texture throughout the salad; some larger chunks provide satisfying bites, while smaller pieces help distribute their flavor evenly.

Preparation Tips for Success

For the absolute best texture and flavor, prepare this salad just before serving, if possible. If you need to make it ahead, consider adding the dressing just before serving to prevent the celery from becoming soggy. However, you can prepare the celery and walnuts in advance and store them separately in airtight containers to maintain their freshness. The yogurt dressing itself can be refrigerated for up to three days; just stir it well before adding it to the salad.

When mixing the ingredients, use a gentle folding motion rather than aggressive tossing to prevent damaging the celery. This approach will keep the celery crisp and the walnuts intact. If necessary, adjust the seasoning to taste after combining everything, as the salt can draw out moisture from the celery, intensifying the flavor even further. Trust your palate and make it your own!

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delightful salad:

Ingredients

4 cups fresh celery, chopped
1 cup walnuts, chopped
1 cup plain yogurt
2 tablespoons lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix these ingredients together for an amazing salad!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your salad:

Prepare the ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped celery and walnuts.

Make the dressing

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

Combine and serve

Pour the dressing over the celery and walnuts, tossing to coat. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Enjoy your freshly made Celery Walnut Yogurt Salad!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider mixing in some fresh herbs like dill or parsley.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you're preparing the salad in advance for a gathering, store the celery and walnuts in separate containers in the refrigerator. The yogurt dressing can also be made a day ahead. Just remember to give it a good stir before serving. Since yogurt can separate slightly upon sitting, this will ensure that the dressing remains smooth and creamy when mixed with the salad.

The salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days after mixing, although freshness will diminish as time goes on. If you find that the flavors are getting too intense after a day, consider adding a bit more yogurt or a splash of lemon juice to lighten it up. Adding fresh herbs like dill or parsley at the time of serving can also rejuvenate the dish.

Serving Suggestions

This Celery Walnut Yogurt Salad is versatile and can be served alongside a variety of main dishes, from grilled meats to hearty vegetarian entrees. It pairs exceptionally well with roasted chicken or fish, as the refreshing properties of the salad cut through rich flavors beautifully. I often serve it as part of a buffet spread for potlucks, allowing guests to help themselves and enjoy.

Consider adding a dash of smoked paprika or a sprinkle of fresh herbs to the top just before serving for an extra pop of color and flavor. You might also try incorporating diced apples or grapes for a sweet twist, balancing out the savory elements perfectly. This salad can also work well as a light lunch on its own; simply serve it over a bed of fresh greens for an easy and satisfying meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, this salad can be made several hours in advance and stored in the fridge until serving.

→ What can I substitute for yogurt?

You can use sour cream or a dairy-free yogurt alternative if you prefer.

→ How long will this salad last in the fridge?

It should be consumed within 2-3 days for the best freshness.

→ Can I add other vegetables to the salad?

Absolutely! You can include ingredients like carrots, bell peppers, or cucumbers for more variety.