Celery Salad With Mayo

Name: Celery Salad With Mayo
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups of chopped celery; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1/4 cup chopped onions (optional); Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup raisins or chopped apple (optional)

Highlighted under: Easy Healthy Meals Collection

When I first tried making celery salad with mayo, I didn't expect it to become one of my go-to side dishes. The crispness of the celery combined with the creamy mayonnaise creates a delightful contrast that elevates it beyond a simple salad. I love how quick and easy it is to prepare, making it perfect for impromptu gatherings or a light lunch. Plus, it’s an excellent way to incorporate more vegetables into my diet without sacrificing flavor.

Created by

Rosamund Blake

Last updated on 2026-01-24T13:37:35.265Z

I remember the first time I served celery salad with mayo at a family picnic. Everyone was surprised by how delicious something so simple could be. It’s all about balancing the crunch of the celery with the creaminess of the mayo, and I found that adding a dash of lemon juice brightens it up beautifully.

As I experimented, I discovered that adding a handful of raisins or chopped apples gives a delightful sweetness, contrasting the savory mayo perfectly. This salad not only tastes great but also takes mere minutes to prepare, and it’s a crowd-pleaser every time!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Crisp celery gives a refreshing crunch
Creamy mayo binds the ingredients beautifully
Versatile enough to serve as a side or a light meal

Perfecting Your Celery Salad

When preparing your celery salad, the quality of your celery makes a huge difference. Look for crisp, fresh stalks with bright green leaves, as they’ll enhance the salad’s texture and flavor. If the celery has a bit of a bend, it might be past its prime. To maintain that delightful crunch, it's best to prepare and serve the salad shortly after mixing the ingredients. If you need to make it ahead of time, consider keeping the components separate until just before serving.

The mayonnaise acts as a creamy binder in this salad, and the choice of brand or type can significantly influence the final taste. A full-fat mayonnaise provides richness, while a lighter or vegan mayo can cut down on calories but may lack the same creaminess. If you're looking to add a little extra depth, try mixing in a teaspoon of Dijon mustard or a splash of apple cider vinegar for tang.

Ingredient Customization

The optional ingredients in this recipe allow for versatility and personal taste preferences. Raisins add sweetness, creating a delightful contrast with the savory elements. If you prefer fresh flavors, chopped apples contribute both sweetness and crunch. Make sure to choose firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best texture. You can also add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for additional crunch and healthy fats while introducing a nutty flavor profile.

To elevate the flavor profile further, consider incorporating herbs such as dill or parsley. Fresh herbs can brighten the overall taste; add them sparingly, starting with just a teaspoon, and adjust according to your preference. For contrasting flavor, finely diced pickles or a squeeze of lime can introduce a zesty twist that complements the creaminess of the mayonnaise beautifully.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients for a delightful celery salad with mayo:

Ingredients

4 cups of chopped celery
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/4 cup chopped onions (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup raisins or chopped apple (optional)

Mix these ingredients together for a scrumptious salad!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make your celery salad with mayo:

Prepare the Celery

Wash and chop the celery into small pieces. Make sure to remove any strings to ensure a pleasant texture.

Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the chopped celery, mayonnaise, lemon juice, and onions if using. Stir well to coat all the celery.

Season and Serve

Add salt and pepper to taste. If desired, fold in the raisins or chopped apple. Serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes for a cooler option.

Enjoy your refreshing celery salad with mayo!

Pro Tips

For an extra zing, consider adding a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the mayo mixture, which provides a nice tang.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This celery salad can be prepared in advance, making it an excellent choice for meal prep. If stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, it will last for about 2-3 days. However, for optimal texture and freshness, it’s ideal to enjoy it within the first day. If planning to serve this salad later, consider adding the mayo just before serving to keep the celery crisp and prevent it from becoming soggy.

When storing the salad, keeping the optional ingredients, like raisins or apples, separate until just before serving helps maintain their texture and prevents them from turning mushy. This simple step can vastly improve the eating experience without sacrificing convenience.

Serving Suggestions

This celery salad is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of main dishes. It serves as a delightful side to grilled chicken, fish, or even burgers, adding a refreshing element. For a light lunch, serve it alongside whole-grain crackers or on a bed of mixed greens for added nutrition.

If you're hosting a gathering or picnic, consider presenting the salad in a chilled bowl to enhance its refreshing aspect. Adding a sprinkle of paprika or chopped green onions on top before serving can offer a nice visual appeal and a hint of color that invites guests to dig in.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this celery salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to serve.

→ What can I substitute for mayonnaise?

You can use Greek yogurt or a plant-based mayonnaise for a lighter option.

→ How can I add protein to this salad?

Consider adding cooked chicken, tuna, or chickpeas to increase the protein content.

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, as long as all ingredients used are gluten-free, this salad is perfect for those with gluten sensitivities.