Celery Salad With Grapes

Name: Celery Salad With Grapes
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 stalks of celery, chopped; 1 cup red grapes, halved; 1/2 cup plain yogurt; 2 tablespoons honey; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Wholesome Food Stories

I absolutely love making this Celery Salad with Grapes because it's a refreshing and crisp side dish that adds a burst of flavor to any meal. The combination of crunchy celery and sweet, juicy grapes creates a delightful contrast that's hard to resist. I enjoy serving it during summer gatherings, picnics, or even as a light dinner when I'm looking for something quick yet satisfying. With just a few ingredients, this salad can be on the table in no time, bringing a lively crunch and brightness to my plate.

Created by

Keira Thompson

Last updated on 2026-02-01T17:41:35.660Z

Creating this Celery Salad with Grapes was a delightful experience! I remember the first time I combined these ingredients. The fresh crunch of celery punctuated by the sweetness of grapes was an immediate hit with my family. We absolutely loved the light, zesty dressing that ties it all together, making it feel festive and vibrant.

One tip I found essential is using grapes that are at their peak ripeness. This makes a noticeable difference in flavor, elevating the dish from simple to extraordinary. Try mixing in some walnuts for added texture if you’re feeling adventurous!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Crisp, refreshing textures with every bite
A perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors
Quick and simple to prepare, making it ideal for any occasion

Choosing the Right Ingredients

Selecting fresh, crunchy celery is crucial for this salad. Look for stalks that are firm, with bright green leaves and a crispy texture. If the celery is limp or discolored, it might not provide the crunch you need for a refreshing salad. Fresh grapes should also be firm and plump; any signs of wrinkling or softness can indicate they are overripe. Red grapes add a beautiful sweetness, but feel free to substitute with green grapes for a slightly tart flavor.

The yogurt in this recipe serves as a creamy base for the dressing, balancing the sweetness of the honey and grapes. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, try using a coconut yogurt or almond yogurt, which can mimic the consistency and tang. Refrain from using flavored yogurts, as they may overpower the fresh taste of the salad. The acidity from the lemon juice brightens up the dressing, making each bite taste even more vibrant.

Perfecting the Dressing

When whisking the dressing, aim for a smooth and creamy texture that easily coats the salad ingredients. Using a small bowl allows for better control, and you can adjust flavors as you mix. If you prefer a sweeter dressing, feel free to add more honey, but keep in mind that the grapes will also impart sweetness. If you're going for a tangier flavor, a splash of apple cider vinegar can enhance the dish without masking the other flavors.

Another tip is to taste the dressing before adding it to the salad. This will allow you to make any adjustments according to your preferences. If it's too thick, you can thin it out with a little cold water or more lemon juice. For a unique twist, consider adding chopped fresh herbs like mint or dill to the dressing for added freshness.

Serving Suggestions and Storage

This Celery Salad with Grapes is best served immediately after preparation as the textures are freshest. But if you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for up to two days, although the celery may become a bit softer over time. Avoid adding the dressing to the whole batch; instead, dress portions as needed to maintain the salad's crispness.

For an elegant serving presentation, consider layering the salad in a transparent bowl to showcase its vibrant colors. Adding garnishes like toasted walnuts or pecans not only adds a crunchy texture but also enhances the flavor profile. You could also pair this salad with grilled chicken or fish for a light and balanced meal, making it versatile enough for both casual gatherings and more formal dining.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your delicious Celery Salad with Grapes:

Salad Ingredients

4 stalks of celery, chopped
1 cup red grapes, halved
1/2 cup plain yogurt
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

Now that you have all your ingredients, let's dive into the steps!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Celery Salad with Grapes:

Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the plain yogurt, honey, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.

Combine the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, add the chopped celery and halved grapes. Pour the dressing over the top and gently toss to coat everything evenly.

Serve

Transfer the salad to a serving dish and enjoy it fresh. For an extra touch, you may garnish with some chopped nuts or additional grapes!

Enjoy your refreshing salad!

Pro Tips

For extra zing, consider adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the dressing for a subtle heat that complements the sweetness of the grapes.

Variations and Additions

Feel free to customize this salad to include your favorite fruits. Sliced apples or pears can provide an additional crispness and tang. You might also consider adding cheese, such as crumbled feta or goat cheese, for a creamy element that contrasts beautifully with the crunchy celery and sweet grapes. If you want to experiment with flavors, you can substitute nuts with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds for a nut-free option.

For added protein, you could incorporate cooked chicken or chickpeas, transforming this salad into a more substantial meal. Adding a bit of quinoa or farro can make it heartier while still keeping the essence of a refreshing salad. Each addition should complement the original flavors, so consider taste-testing to achieve the perfect combination.

Cooking and Preparation Tips

When chopping celery, I recommend using a sharp knife to achieve clean cuts. This helps maintain the structure and crunch of the celery. If you find it difficult to chop the celery into uniform pieces, try stacking the stalks or cutting at an angle for presentation. It’s a simple technique that can elevate your dish visually and physically.

Keep the salad tossing gentle to avoid bruising the grapes. By using a folding motion with your spatula or spoon, you’ll effectively coat the ingredients with the dressing without compromising their integrity. If you find the grapes and celery aren’t mingling well, allow the salad to sit for about 10 minutes after tossing; this will give the flavors a chance to meld together beautifully.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning to make this salad ahead of time, consider prepping the celery and grapes separately from the dressing. Store the chopped celery and halved grapes in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. This will help maintain the freshness and crunchiness of the ingredients until you’re ready to serve. Just remember to dress the salad right before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Another great make-ahead option is to prepare the dressing in advance and store it in the refrigerator. It can last for up to a week, allowing you to whip up this salad whenever the craving strikes. Just give the dressing a good stir before using it, as ingredients may settle over time. This means you can enjoy this vibrant salad with minimal effort, especially on busy days.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare the salad in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours ahead, but it’s best to add the dressing just before serving to keep everything crisp.

→ What can I substitute for yogurt?

You can substitute Greek yogurt or even a dairy-free yogurt alternative for a similar texture and flavor.

→ Can I use other fruits?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other fruits like apple slices or berries for a twist on the classic recipe.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but it’s best enjoyed fresh.