Celery and Bacon Salad

Name: Celery and Bacon Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 stalks of celery, chopped; 6 strips of bacon, cooked and crumbled; 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced; 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Light & Fresh Recipes

I love how the crispness of fresh celery pairs beautifully with the savory depth of bacon in this salad. Each bite is a delightful crunch that’s bursting with flavor. The combination of textures—crunchy, salty, and creamy from the dressing—makes this salad a favorite on my table. It's quick and simple to prepare, and the ingredients are so accessible. Whether served at a picnic or as a side dish for dinner, this salad is sure to impress!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-29T23:14:05.706Z

When I was experimenting with salad recipes, I stumbled upon the idea of adding bacon to a traditional celery salad. The moment I tasted it, I knew I had created something wonderful. The smoky flavor of the bacon enhances the fresh, crisp celery, turning an ordinary salad into something extraordinary.

I’ve found that using fresh ingredients is paramount. The quality of the bacon and the crunchiness of the celery play a crucial role in the taste profile. Toss in a zesty dressing to elevate the flavors, and you have a dish that’s as delicious as it is easy to make.

Why You'll Love This Salad
Crisp and crunchy texture that awakens your taste buds
Savory, smoky bacon adds depth and richness
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy days

Choosing the Best Celery

When selecting celery for your salad, look for stalks that are firm and crisp, with vibrant green leaves. Avoid any that appear wilted or have dark spots, as these can indicate spoilage. Fresh celery contributes not only to the salad's crunch but also has a refreshing flavor that balances the rich bacon.

For a nice visual contrast, try using different varieties of celery, like the pale Green Giant or the more vibrant and slightly thicker stalks of Pascal celery. Each variety offers a unique crunch and subtle flavor, which can enhance the overall appeal of the salad.

Maximizing Flavor with Bacon

To achieve the best texture and flavor from your bacon, I recommend cooking it until it’s crispy but not overly charred. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes in a skillet over medium heat. The rendered bacon fat can be saved to add depth to other dishes, but for this salad, crumbled bacon provides delightful pops of savory flavor in every bite.

If you prefer a healthier option or a vegetarian version, try using turkey bacon or a plant-based bacon alternative. Both can still deliver that smoky essence, but just be aware that cooking times may vary slightly, and you might want to add a touch of liquid smoke to achieve a similar flavor profile.

Dressing Tips and Tricks

For the dressing, I often use homemade mayonnaise for a fresher taste, but store-bought works just fine. If you want a lighter dressing, consider substituting Greek yogurt for half of the mayonnaise—it adds creaminess while reducing calories. Adding a dash of Dijon mustard can also enhance the tanginess of your dressing.

Visually check the dressing's consistency; it should be creamy and coat the back of a spoon without being too runny. If it seems too thick, a tablespoon of water or additional lemon juice can help achieve the desired consistency without compromising flavor.

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

4 stalks of celery, chopped
6 strips of bacon, cooked and crumbled
1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the chopped celery, crumbled bacon, diced onion, and halved cherry tomatoes. Mix gently to combine.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well blended.

Combine Salad and Dressing

Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss until everything is well coated.

Serve

Serve immediately for the freshest flavor, or refrigerate for up to 30 minutes if you prefer a colder salad.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding a sprinkle of your favorite herbs, like dill or parsley, to the salad just before serving.

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, this salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. However, I recommend consuming it within the first day for optimal freshness, as the moisture from the celery may cause the bacon to lose its crispness over time.

To refresh stored salad, simply stir gently to redistribute the dressing, and consider adding a few fresh pieces of chopped celery on top for added crunch and to reinvigorate the flavors.

Serving Suggestions

This salad pairs beautifully as a side with grilled meats or sandwiches. If you're hosting a picnic, consider serving it alongside a light pasta salad or a fresh fruit platter to create a balanced and vibrant spread.

For a quick lunch, serve this salad atop a bed of leafy greens like arugula or spinach. If you like a hint of sweetness, a handful of dried cranberries or sliced apples can be added for an extra layer of flavor and texture.

Variations to Explore

Feel free to get creative! Adding herbs such as fresh dill or parsley can elevate the flavor profile of the salad. If you want to introduce some crunch and nutty flavor, try tossing in a handful of sunflower seeds or chopped nuts.

For a different dressing experience, experiment with a vinaigrette made from apple cider vinegar and a drizzle of honey for a sweeter touch, or a yogurt-based dressing for a tangy twist that complements the bacon well.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance, but add the dressing just before serving for best texture.

→ Is there a vegetarian alternative to bacon?

Absolutely! You can substitute the bacon with smoked tofu or tempeh for a similar smoky flavor.

→ What else can I add to this salad?

Feel free to add ingredients like avocado, cucumbers, or nuts for varied flavors and textures.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.