Crunch & Cream Delight: Olive-Stuffed Celery with Zesty Cheese Filling
Introduction:
Cream Cheese & Olive Stuffed Celery Sticks are a timeless appetizer that perfectly balances crunch, creaminess, and savory flavor.
Often associated with retro party platters and holiday spreads, this simple dish has endured for good reason.
It is easy to prepare, visually appealing, and delivers a satisfying contrast of textures in every bite.
Whether served at a family gathering, game-day party, or as a quick snack, stuffed celery sticks remain a reliable favorite.
What makes this appetizer especially appealing is its versatility.
With a crisp celery base and a rich, tangy filling, it can be adapted to suit different tastes and dietary preferences.
The combination of cream cheese, olives, herbs, and citrus creates a bold yet refreshing flavor profile.
The olives bring saltiness and depth, while lemon juice and dill add brightness that prevents the filling from feeling heavy.
This article provides a complete guide to preparing Cream Cheese & Olive Stuffed Celery Sticks at home.
It follows a clear and organized structure, walking you through the ingredients, preparation process, serving ideas, storage tips, and common questions.
Whether you are making these for the first time or refining a familiar recipe, this guide will help you achieve consistently delicious results.
Ingredients:
This recipe relies on simple, accessible ingredients that come together to create a flavorful and visually appealing appetizer.
Each element plays a distinct role, contributing to the overall balance of taste and texture.
The Vessel:
- 1 bunch celery stalks, washed, trimmed, and cut into 2–3 inch pieces
Celery serves as the foundation of the dish.
Its natural crunch provides structure and freshness, making it the perfect carrier for the creamy filling.
Choosing firm, bright green stalks ensures the best texture and presentation.
The Creamy Filling:
- 8 oz package cream cheese (full-fat or Neufchâtel), softened to room temperature
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for a lighter option
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried dill
- A pinch of salt and black pepper
Cream cheese forms the base of the filling, offering richness and smoothness.
Mayonnaise adds extra creaminess and subtle tang, while Greek yogurt provides a lighter alternative with a slight acidity.
Lemon juice brightens the mixture, preventing it from tasting overly dense.
Garlic powder and dill introduce savory and herbal notes, and seasoning with salt and pepper brings everything into balance.
The Toppings (The Flavor Pops):
- 1/2 cup green olives, sliced (pimento-stuffed olives work particularly well)
- 1/4 cup pimentos or finely chopped red bell pepper
The toppings are what elevate this appetizer from simple to memorable.
Green olives contribute briny intensity and a satisfying bite.
Pimentos or red bell peppers add sweetness, color, and visual contrast, making the finished dish more inviting.