Description
Cream Cheese Stuffed Celery is a simple, quick, and versatile appetizer combining crisp celery stalks with a creamy, flavorful filling. Perfect for gatherings, snacks, or parties, this classic dish is easy to customize with herbs, spices, and toppings for added texture and taste.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- Fresh celery stalks (crisp, bright green) – about 6-8 stalks
- Cream cheese (softened, full-fat or light) – 8 oz
- Salt – to taste
- Black pepper – to taste
Optional Mix-ins
- Chopped fresh herbs (dill, chives, parsley) – 1-2 tbsp
- Garlic powder – 1/4 tsp
- Diced olives – 2 tbsp
Toppings
- Chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans) – 2 tbsp
- Paprika – 1/2 tsp
- Shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese – 2 tbsp
- Diced bell peppers or tomatoes – 2 tbsp
Instructions
- Prepare the Celery: Wash the celery stalks thoroughly. Cut them into manageable 3-4 inch pieces and trim any uneven edges to create neat, attractive handles for stuffing.
- Soften the Cream Cheese: Let the cream cheese sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes to become easy to spread, ensuring a smooth filling texture.
- Mix the Filling: In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with your chosen mix-ins like herbs, spices, or finely chopped vegetables. Season lightly with salt and pepper and stir well to blend flavors evenly.
- Stuff the Celery: Use a small spoon or piping bag to fill each celery piece generously with the cream cheese mixture, making sure to fill the grooves well for the classic look and satisfying bite.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle your favorite toppings such as chopped nuts, paprika, or extra herbs on top for flair and texture, making the appetizer look inviting and taste better.
Notes
- Choose fresh and crisp celery to avoid sogginess and ensure a perfect crunch.
- Using room temperature cream cheese helps achieve a smooth, lump-free filling.
- For a neater presentation, use a piping bag to stuff the celery.
- Adjust seasoning by taste-testing the filling before stuffing.
- Chill the prepared stuffed celery for at least 30 minutes to firm up the filling and enhance flavor melding.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- This appetizer is best served cold or at room temperature; avoid reheating to maintain texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: No Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 stuffed celery pieces
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg