Begin by preparing the celery.
Wash the stalks thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or residue.
Trim the ends and cut each stalk into 2–3 inch pieces.
If the celery has deep grooves, you may lightly trim the base to help the sticks sit flat on a serving platter.
Once prepared, pat them dry with a clean towel and set aside.
Next, prepare the creamy filling.
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise or Greek yogurt.
Using a spatula or hand mixer, blend until smooth and well incorporated.
Make sure there are no lumps, as a smooth texture is essential for easy filling and an appealing finish.
Add the lemon juice, garlic powder, dried dill, salt, and black pepper to the bowl.
Mix thoroughly until all seasonings are evenly distributed.
Taste the mixture and adjust seasoning as needed.
The filling should be creamy, slightly tangy, and well balanced in flavor.
Gently fold in the sliced green olives and pimentos or red bell pepper.
Stir just enough to distribute them evenly throughout the filling without crushing the olives.
This step ensures that every bite contains a mix of creamy base and flavorful additions.
Using a small spoon or piping bag, fill each celery stick generously with the cream cheese mixture.
Smooth the top with the back of the spoon for a clean presentation.
Arrange the stuffed celery sticks on a serving platter, spacing them evenly.
For best results, refrigerate for 20–30 minutes before serving to allow the filling to firm slightly.
Serving and Storage:
Cream Cheese & Olive Stuffed Celery Sticks are best served chilled or slightly cool.
They make an excellent appetizer, snack, or addition to a party platter.
Their crisp texture and bold flavor pair well with other finger foods such as crackers, cheeses, and cured meats.
They are also suitable for low-carb or gluten-free menus.
If preparing ahead of time, store the stuffed celery sticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
They will stay fresh for up to two days.
To maintain crispness, line the container with a paper towel to absorb excess moisture.
Avoid freezing, as the texture of both celery and cream cheese can be negatively affected.
Tips:
For extra smooth filling, allow the cream cheese to fully soften before mixing.
If short on time, cut it into cubes to speed up the process.
A piping bag or resealable plastic bag with the corner snipped off can make filling the celery neater and faster.
Feel free to customize the flavor by adding chopped nuts, a dash of hot sauce, or fresh herbs.
If olives are not your preference, capers or finely chopped pickles can be used as an alternative.
Always taste and adjust seasoning before filling the celery for the best results.
Conclusion:
Cream Cheese & Olive Stuffed Celery Sticks are a classic appetizer that continues to earn its place on modern tables.
They are simple to prepare, visually appealing, and packed with flavor despite using minimal ingredients.
The contrast between crunchy celery and creamy, savory filling makes them satisfying without being heavy.
This recipe demonstrates how thoughtful combinations of basic ingredients can create something truly enjoyable.
Whether served at a gathering or enjoyed as a quick snack, these stuffed celery sticks offer reliability and versatility.
With the guidance provided in this article, you can prepare them confidently and adapt them to suit your personal taste.
FAQ:
Can I make stuffed celery sticks ahead of time?
Yes, they can be made up to one day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
For best texture, cover them well and serve chilled.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Low-fat cream cheese can be used, but the filling may be slightly less rich and firm.
Allow extra chilling time to help it set.
Are these stuffed celery sticks keto-friendly?
Yes, they are generally suitable for a keto or low-carb diet, especially when made with full-fat cream cheese and mayonnaise.
What can I substitute for olives?
If olives are not preferred, chopped pickles, capers, or sun-dried tomatoes can provide a similar flavor contrast.
How do I keep celery from becoming watery?
Make sure the celery is thoroughly dried after washing and store the finished sticks in a lined airtight container to absorb excess moisture.