Christmas Celery
A creamy, savory celery stuffing featuring avocado, cream cheese, lemon, and Worcestershire sauce, perfect for festive gatherings and served as a delightful appetizer or side dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mash the avocado until smooth.
- Sprinkle the mashed avocado with lemon juice.
- Blend in the cream cheese, lemon rind, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Stuff the mixture into celery stalks.
- Garnish with pimento before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using mascarpone cheese instead of cream cheese. If you prefer a tangier flavor, add more lemon juice or a splash of vinegar. You can also mix in some finely chopped herbs like chives or dill for added freshness. This recipe is versatile; feel free to substitute the avocado with a bean spread for a different twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these stuffed celery sticks as a festive appetizer at your holiday gatherings. They pair beautifully with a selection of cheeses and crackers or alongside a fresh vegetable platter. For a complete spread, consider including some savory bites like Holiday Bourbon Sweet Potatoes or a sweet treat like Rice Flake Oatmeal Cookies.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To maintain the freshness of the celery, keep the filled stalks covered with damp paper towels. If you need to reheat the filling, do so gently in the microwave, but avoid overheating to prevent it from becoming watery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Christmas Celery contains roughly 11 calories, with 0g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (20% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1755mg per serving (76% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the avocado filling a day in advance. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container to prevent browning. However, it's best to stuff the celery just before serving to keep it crisp and fresh.
What can I use instead of Worcestershire sauce?
If you're looking for a substitute for Worcestershire sauce, consider using soy sauce mixed with a little lemon juice or balsamic vinegar. This will provide a similar depth of flavor without compromising the dish.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
To make this recipe vegan, substitute the cream cheese with a plant-based cream cheese alternative and omit Worcestershire sauce, or use a vegan version. The avocado provides a creamy texture, making it a great option for vegan diets.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).