Stuffed Celery Appetizer Recipe

Alright, so here’s the deal: I’ve discovered this divine crunchy treat that might just be my new go-to snack or party appetizer. It’s a creamy, cheesy celery creation that’s as simple to make as it is delicious to devour. Let’s dive in!

My favorite creations are dishes that balance flavor and texture, like these appetizers. I consider them to be a “go-to” for a nutritious snack.

I stuff celery with softened cream cheese blended with chopped walnuts and the tiniest hint of garlic powder for what is, to me, the perfect filling. They are “nutty,” but not too heavy.

The blue cheese crumbles on top add just the right amount of “wow” factor, both in taste and appearance.

Stuffed Celery Appetizer Recipe Ingredients

• Celery: Low-calorie, high fiber, adds a crunchy texture.
• Cream Cheese: Provides creaminess and richness, high in fat.
• Walnuts/Pecans: Offer crunch and healthy omega-3 fats.
• Blue Cheese/Cheddar Cheese: Adds tangy flavor, rich in protein.
• Fresh Parsley: Brightens flavors with fresh, herbal notes.

Stuffed Celery Appetizer Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 1 bunch of celery, cleaned and cut into 3-inch pieces
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
• 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese or cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make this Stuffed Celery Appetizer Recipe

1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the creamy cheese and mayonnaise until smooth and well-blended.

2. Incorporate the snipped walnuts or pecans and the crumbled blue or cheddar cheese into the cream cheese mixture. Stir until the ingredients are uniformly mixed.

3. Fold the parsley, along with the garlic powder and onion powder, into the mixture so all the ingredients are well blended and experience an equal distribution.

4. Add salt and pepper to the mixture, adjusting and correcting it to the flavor you want. I like to add quite a bit of ground black pepper at this stage.

5. Fill a pastry bag or resealable plastic bag with a corner cut off with the cheese mixture, making a very easy piping tool.

6. Remove the cheese mixture into the hollow of each piece, filling it generously. Take a piece of celery and pipe.

7. Execute the filling operation for every segmented stick of celery until every last portion is laden with the creamy cheese concoction.

8. Place the celery pieces on a platter for serving the stuffed celery, ensuring they are presentation side up.

9. For an added touch of color and freshness, you can garnish with a light sprinkle of extra chopped fresh parsley.

10. Serve right away as a tasty starter or keep in the fridge for up to an hour for a refreshing cold treat. Enjoy!

Stuffed Celery Appetizer Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Medium mixing bowl
2. Spoon or spatula for stirring
3. Measuring cups and spoons
4. Chef’s knife
5. Cutting board
6. Pastry bag or resealable plastic bag
7. Platter for serving

FAQ

• Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?A: Yes, you can use any cheese you like best. Feta or goat cheese also makes a great substitute.
• Q: How can I make this recipe nut-free?A: You can simply leave the walnuts or pecans out. You can add more cheese or herbs for additional flavor if you’d like.
• Q: How far in advance can I prepare the stuffed celery?A: They can be prepared as much as 24 hours in advance. To keep them fresh, store them in the refrigerator, covered.
• Q: Can I use celery leaves in the recipe?A: Yes, the filling can be made with chopped celery leaves or used as a garnish for added flavor. Both options work.
• Q: How do I soften cream cheese quickly?A: Put it into a bowl safe for the microwave and power it for about 10-15 seconds on medium.
• Q: Can I make this recipe vegan?A: Replace the cream cheese and mayonnaise with their vegan counterparts, and select a plant-based cheese that works for you.

Stuffed Celery Appetizer Recipe Substitutions and Variations

For cream cheese: 8 oz of ricotta cheese or Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
To make mayonnaise, use 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.
If you opt for walnuts or pecans: use 1/2 cup sunflower seeds or slivered almonds for a nut-free alternative.
For either blue cheese or cheddar cheese: use 1/2 cup feta cheese or goat cheese for a bolder flavor.
For fresh parsley: 1/4 cup fresh dill or chives for an aroma and taste that set it apart.

Pro Tips

1. Toast the Nuts Before chopping the walnuts or pecans, lightly toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until they are fragrant. This enhances their flavor and adds a nice crunch to the filling.

2. Room Temperature Ingredients Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened to room temperature before mixing. This makes it easier to achieve a smooth and creamy texture when combined with the mayonnaise.

3. Customization Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to suit your taste. Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika can give the filling an extra kick.

4. Chill the Filling After mixing the filling, let it chill in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes. This helps the flavors meld together and makes the mixture easier to pipe into the celery sticks.

5. Celery Tips If you want perfectly crisp celery, soak the cut sticks in ice water for about 10 minutes, then drain and dry before filling. This step keeps them fresh and crunchy.