Creamed Or Scalloped Celery
Creamed or scalloped celery offers tender celery in a rich, creamy sauce, perfect as a comforting side dish for family meals or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash the celery stalks and cut them into 1-inch pieces.
- Place the celery in a saucepan, cover with boiling water, and boil until tender (about 30 minutes), until the water is reduced to about 1/2 cup.
- Make a sauce using the celery water, milk, and flour.
- Add the cooked celery to the sauce and season with salt and pepper.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier sauce, consider using half-and-half instead of milk, or even a non-dairy milk for a vegan option. If you don't have fresh celery, celery root can be a good substitute. Adding a pinch of nutmeg can elevate the flavor profile. Make sure to stir the flour well with the milk to avoid lumps for a smooth sauce.
Serving Suggestions
This creamed celery pairs beautifully with Homemade Mashed Potatoes for a comforting side dish. Serve it alongside roasted meats or as part of a vegetarian meal. Garnish with fresh herbs for an extra pop of flavor. It can also be an excellent filling for a savory tart or quiche.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can add a splash of milk to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as it may become rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Creamed Or Scalloped Celery contains roughly 229 calories, with 5g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is a good source of iron (13% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 901mg per serving (39% 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 use frozen celery for this recipe?
While fresh celery is preferred for texture and flavor, frozen celery can be used in a pinch. However, it may become softer once cooked, affecting the final dish's consistency. Be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make creamed celery gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. Mix cornstarch with a little cold water to create a slurry before adding it to the sauce to ensure a smooth texture.
What can I add for extra flavor?
For added depth, consider incorporating sautéed onions or garlic into the sauce. A splash of white wine or a sprinkle of cheese can also enhance the flavor. Fresh herbs like thyme or dill would provide a delightful contrast to the creamy sauce.
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).