Celery Salad With Grapes

Name: Celery Salad With Grapes
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups celery, chopped; 2 cups grapes, halved (red or green); 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt; 1 tablespoon honey; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Easy Healthy Meals Ideas

I absolutely love making Celery Salad with Grapes for a refreshing side dish that pairs beautifully with any meal. The crunch of the celery combined with the sweetness of the grapes creates a delightful contrast that’s hard to resist. It’s a quick and easy recipe that brings vibrant flavors to the table, perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a light lunch. Every time I make this salad, I am reminded of how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special.

Created by

Isolde Bennett

Last updated on 2026-02-01T16:17:36.310Z

When I first tried a celery salad with grapes at a picnic, I was surprised by how well the flavors complemented each other. The crispness of the celery adds a satisfying crunch, while the grapes provide a balance of sweetness that keeps the salad interesting. I learned that using fresh, crunchy celery and grapes at their peak ripeness makes all the difference in flavor.

One of my favorite techniques is to add a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving. This not only enhances the flavor but also keeps the celery from browning. It’s the little tips like this that transform a simple salad into something extraordinary!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The perfect balance of crunchy celery and sweet grapes
Bright, fresh flavors that are refreshing in every bite
Very quick to prepare, making it a go-to for any occasion

Understanding the Ingredients

Each component of this Celery Salad with Grapes plays an essential role in creating its delightful flavor profile. The celery not only provides crunch but also brings a refreshing earthy taste that balances the sweetness of the grapes. When selecting grapes, consider using a mix of red and green to add color and visual appeal to your salad. For the best flavor, choose grapes that are firm and plump, ensuring they’re at peak ripeness.

The dressing, made with Greek yogurt, honey, and lemon juice, adds a creamy texture while keeping the dish light. Greek yogurt is a healthier alternative to traditional dressings and contributes a tangy flavor that enhances the overall dish. If you prefer a sweeter dressing, feel free to increase the honey slightly, but aim to maintain that balance with the lemon juice. It’s this harmony between sweet and tangy that makes each bite unforgettable.

Preparation Tips

When preparing the salad, make sure to chop the celery into even pieces, about 1/2 inch thick. This ensures that every bite delivers a consistent texture and a satisfying crunch. If you find you have some tougher outer stalks of celery, feel free to peel those away for a more tender bite. As for the grapes, halving them not only makes them easier to eat but also allows the juices to mingle with the dressing more effectively.

For those who want to save time, you can prepare the celery and grapes in advance. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to two days before serving. Just remember to make the dressing fresh right before serving to ensure it retains its creamy texture and flavor. If you find the dressing thickens in the fridge, simply stir in a small amount of water or extra lemon juice to loosen it before combining with the salad.

Serving Suggestions

This Celery Salad with Grapes is not only delicious but also versatile. It's perfect as a side dish for grilled meats or sandwiches, giving you a light, refreshing complement to richer proteins. Alternatively, serve it on a bed of leafy greens to create a vibrant lunch option. Adding some toasted walnuts or sunflower seeds on top can provide an extra crunch and a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the salad.

If you’re looking to make this dish even more substantial, consider adding protein such as diced chicken or chickpeas. These additions will transform it into a hearty main dish suitable for a light dinner or potluck. Be mindful of the additional ingredients’ flavors, ensuring they harmonize rather than overshadow the existing delightful combination of celery and grapes.

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

4 cups celery, chopped
2 cups grapes, halved (red or green)
1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the chopped celery and halved grapes.

Make the Dressing

In a separate small bowl, mix the Greek yogurt, honey, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Combine and Serve

Pour the dressing over the celery and grapes, then toss gently to coat everything evenly. Serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Pro Tips

For an added crunch, consider tossing in some chopped walnuts or toasted almonds. You can also substitute the Greek yogurt with a vegan alternative if desired.

Make-Ahead Tips

To simplify meal prep or make this salad for gatherings, you can prepare the individual components ahead of time. Chop your celery and halve the grapes, storing them separately in the fridge. Prepare the dressing too, and keep it in an airtight container; it can last for up to three days. This way, all you need to do is combine the components and toss them together just before serving, ensuring maximum freshness.

If you find that the salad is getting watery from the celery releasing moisture, consider adding the dressing just before serving to maintain a crisp texture. Storing the salad already dressed can lead to a soggy texture, which is less appealing. By keeping the dressing separate, you're keeping the salad in prime condition until it's time to eat.

Ingredient Swaps

If you’re looking for dairy-free options, you can substitute the Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt, ensuring it remains plain and unsweetened to maintain the salad's flavor balance. Additionally, for a low-carb option, consider using cauliflower florets instead of celery, keeping in mind that you'll need to adjust the dressing for this substitution to ensure it complements the cauliflower's milder flavor.

For a citrus twist, try adding orange segments or pomegranate seeds for a pop of color and flavor. You might even substitute the honey with maple syrup for a vegan touch, just adjusting the quantity according to your sweetness preference. Each of these variations lends a unique spin on the classic salad while keeping it deliciously refreshing.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad in advance?

Yes, you can prepare it a few hours ahead of time. Just add the dressing right before serving to keep the celery crisp.

→ What can I substitute for Greek yogurt?

You can use sour cream or a vegan yogurt alternative for a similar texture.

→ Is there a way to make this salad more filling?

Certainly! Adding cooked quinoa or grilled chicken can make it a more hearty meal.

→ What other fruits can I add?

You can include apples, pears, or even dried cranberries for a twist on flavors.