Far East Celery Casserole *
A savory casserole combining crisp celery, water chestnuts, and pimientos, topped with toasted almonds and bread crumbs, perfect for a comforting family dinner or holiday gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook sliced celery in a small amount of water for 5 minutes.
- Drain the celery.
- Add drained and sliced water chestnuts, cream of chicken soup, and diced pimiento to the celery.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 1-quart casserole dish and refrigerate overnight.
- When ready to bake, top with a mixture of melted margarine, bread crumbs, and toasted almonds.
- Bake for 35 minutes at 350°F.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider substituting the cream of chicken soup with a homemade version using chicken broth and flour. You can also use fresh chestnuts instead of canned for a more robust flavor. If you're looking to reduce calories, swap margarine for olive oil or a butter alternative. Adding a touch of garlic powder can enhance the overall flavor profile of the dish.
Serving Suggestions
This Far East Celery Casserole pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish for a balanced meal. Serve it alongside a light salad or steamed vegetables for a refreshing contrast. It's also a great side dish for holiday gatherings or potlucks, complementing dishes like Chicken Casserole(Microwave Version) and other American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F, cover the casserole with foil to prevent drying out, and bake for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Far East Celery Casserole * contains roughly 432 calories, with 11g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1109mg per serving (48% 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 this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake. This allows the flavors to meld together. Just add the topping right before baking to ensure it stays crispy.
Can I use different nuts in this recipe?
Absolutely! While toasted almonds add a nice crunch, you can substitute them with walnuts, pecans, or even sunflower seeds for a nut-free option. Just ensure that any nuts you choose are toasted to enhance their flavor.
Is there a vegetarian version of this casserole?
Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian version by replacing the cream of chicken soup with a cream of mushroom or vegetable soup. This will maintain the creaminess while keeping the dish vegetarian-friendly.
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).