Name: Celery Salad with Greek Yogurt Dressing Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 4 min
Total time: 14 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 3 large garlic cloves; 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon Aleppo pepper; 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 1/2 cup slivered almonds; 1 bunch celery (about 10 to 12 stalks), thinly sliced, leaves reserved; 3 scallions, white and green parts thinly sliced; 1/3 cup chopped fresh mint leaves, plus more for garnish

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 3 reviews

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If you’re craving something fresh, vibrant, and bursting with flavor, the Celery Salad with Greek Yogurt Dressing Recipe is your new go-to dish. This salad combines the crisp crunch of celery with the tangy creaminess of Greek yogurt dressing, accented by zesty lemon, fragrant mint, and the delightful warmth of Aleppo pepper. It’s a refreshing blend that’s as easy to whip up as it is delicious, perfect for enlivening any meal or enjoying on its own for a light, nutritious snack.

Ingredients You'll Need

A clear glass bowl with floral designs holds fresh ingredients arranged in four sections on a white marbled surface. The top part has light green sliced celery, slightly curved and crisp in texture. Next to this are thinly sliced green onions with their pale green and white colors. To the right, there is a small pile of finely chopped dark green herbs, creating a dense leafy texture. At the bottom is a cluster of light brown almond slivers, smooth and slightly shiny. Two silver metal spoons rest inside the bowl on the left side, their handles stretching out. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are simple yet carefully chosen to create a wonderful harmony of taste and texture. Each element plays its part, from the crunchy celery to the creamy, zesty dressing, and the toasted almonds offering the perfect nutty crunch.

Garlic (3 large cloves): Fresh garlic gives the dressing a bright, aromatic punch that ties all the flavors together.

Plain Greek yogurt (¼ cup): Adds a creamy tang that keeps the salad light and luscious.
Lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Lifts the dressing with a refreshing citrusy zing.
Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Brings a smooth, rich mouthfeel and balances the tang of yogurt and lemon.

Aleppo pepper (1 teaspoon): This mild chili spice adds a gentle heat and fruity notes without overpowering the salad.
Kosher salt (½ teaspoon): Essential to enhance and bring out all the flavors in the salad.
Freshly ground black pepper (¼ teaspoon): Provides a subtle warmth and complexity.

Slivered almonds (½ cup): Toasted to perfection, these add a delightful crunch and nutty aroma.
Celery (1 bunch, about 10 to 12 stalks): Thinly sliced stalks bring crispness, with the reserved leaves adding freshness as a garnish.
Scallions (3, white and green parts): Thinly sliced, they contribute mild oniony sweetness and a pop of green color.

Fresh mint leaves (⅓ cup plus extra for garnish): Adds a cool, herbaceous lift that complements the lemon and yogurt beautifully.

How to Make Celery Salad with Greek Yogurt Dressing Recipe

Step 1: Make the Dressing

Start by peeling and finely mincing the garlic cloves. To unlock their full flavor, smash the minced garlic with the flat side of your knife until it forms a smooth paste. Transfer this to a medium bowl, then whisk in the plain Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, Aleppo pepper, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Mixing these ingredients well creates a luscious dressing that’s both creamy and zesty, forming the perfect base for your salad.

Step 2: Toast the Slivered Almonds

Set a small dry skillet on medium heat and add the slivered almonds. Toast them for 2 to 4 minutes, tossing occasionally, until they turn golden brown and release their wonderful nutty aroma. This step enhances the texture and adds a toasty flavor that really lifts the salad’s overall taste. Transfer the almonds to a plate and let them cool while you prepare the rest.

Step 3: Prepare the Salad

In the bowl with your dressing, add the thinly sliced celery stalks, scallions, and chopped fresh mint leaves. Keep two tablespoons of the toasted almonds aside for garnish and stir the rest into the salad. Using a rubber spatula, toss everything gently but thoroughly to make sure every bite is coated with the dressing and balanced with fresh herbs and crunch. Finish by garnishing with the reserved almonds, a handful of roughly chopped celery leaves, and a sprinkle of extra fresh mint for that inviting burst of color and aroma. Serve immediately to enjoy the salad at its crispest.

How to Serve Celery Salad with Greek Yogurt Dressing Recipe

This image shows a white oval plate filled with a fresh salad made of light green celery slices layered with bright green parsley leaves and scattered toasted almond slivers. The salad is sprinkled with small red pepper flakes and a creamy dressing that adds a slight shine. On the right side of the plate, there is a large silver serving spoon and fork partially submerged in the salad. Around the plate, the white marbled surface holds three small bowls: one with dark pepper powder, one with red chili flakes and a wooden spoon, and one with salt and a small wooden scoop. Also visible are lemon wedges and a sprig of mint that blend with the overall fresh and light look of the image. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Extra mint leaves and almonds make fantastic garnishes that not only brighten the plate visually but also add fresh and crunchy textures. A few finely chopped celery leaves scattered on top add a subtle herbal note that elevates every bite.

Side Dishes

This celery salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish, making for a balanced, refreshing meal. It’s also a perfect complement to heavier, richer dishes, as the cool yogurt dressing and crisp celery refresh your palate between bites.

Creative Ways to Present

For a casual yet elegant presentation, serve this salad in a large wooden bowl or individual glass jars for easy portioning at a picnic or party. You can also layer it over mixed greens or serve as a topping for crunchy toast with a sprinkle of crumbled feta for a Mediterranean-inspired appetizer.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers from the Celery Salad with Greek Yogurt Dressing Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best eaten within 1 to 2 days to preserve the crispness of the celery and the bright flavors in the dressing, which can mellow over time.

Freezing

This salad is not suitable for freezing because the fresh celery will lose its crunch and the yogurt dressing may separate after thawing. It’s always best enjoyed fresh to get the full range of flavors and textures.

Reheating

Since this is a cold salad packed with fresh ingredients and creamy dressing, reheating is not recommended. To enjoy it again later, simply give it a stirring and maybe a fresh squeeze of lemon to revive the flavors before serving cold.

FAQs

Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?

While regular yogurt can be used, Greek yogurt’s thicker, creamier texture really helps the dressing cling to the celery and contributes a richer flavor. If you use regular yogurt, consider draining it first to remove excess liquid.

What is Aleppo pepper, and can I substitute it?

Aleppo pepper is a mildly spicy chili with a fruity undertone, often used in Middle Eastern dishes. If you don’t have it, you can substitute with crushed red pepper flakes or a mild paprika blended with a pinch of cayenne to approximate the flavor.

How can I make this celery salad crunchy for longer?

To keep the celery crisp, prepare the salad right before serving. If you must make it ahead, store the celery separately and toss with the dressing just before eating.

Is this salad vegan-friendly?

This recipe as written contains Greek yogurt, which is a dairy product. For a vegan version, try substituting the yogurt with a plant-based alternative like coconut or cashew yogurt, but note the flavor and texture will slightly differ.

Can I add other vegetables to this salad?

Absolutely! Thinly sliced cucumber or radishes would add a nice crunch and freshness without overpowering the delicate flavors of the dressing and celery.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a salad that’s bursting with bright flavors, satisfying textures, and simple wholesome ingredients, the Celery Salad with Greek Yogurt Dressing Recipe is sure to become one of your favorites. It’s quick to prepare, refreshingly light, and versatile enough to enjoy year-round. Give it a try soon and watch it become your new staple for vibrant, healthy eating!

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Celery Salad with Greek Yogurt Dressing Recipe

Ingredients You'll Need