Stuffed Celery Fingers
Creamy, sweet, and nutty stuffed celery fingers offer a delightful appetizer with rich flavors, perfect for parties or light snacks, appealing to both savory and sweet taste preferences.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Blend cream cheese with milk, pecans, dates, and ginger until smooth.
- Fill each celery rib with the cream cheese mixture.
- Cut each filled celery stalk into two or three pieces.
- Chill before serving on a tray as a salad or appetizer.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother filling, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before blending. If you want a nut-free version, substitute the pecans with sunflower seeds. You can also experiment with different dried fruits such as apricots or cranberries instead of dates for varied sweetness. Adding a pinch of cinnamon can enhance the flavor profile nicely.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these stuffed celery fingers as a refreshing appetizer or salad during gatherings. They pair beautifully with Green Horseradish Dressing for an extra kick. Consider presenting them alongside a charcuterie board or as part of a vegetarian spread for a balanced meal. They make a delightful addition to any picnic or potluck.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover stuffed celery in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the crunchiness of the celery, avoid covering it tightly. This dish is best served chilled, so there's no need to reheat; simply enjoy it cold straight from the fridge.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Stuffed Celery Fingers contains roughly 475 calories, with 11g protein, 89g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (119% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (53% of the Daily Value), and potassium (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. It also contributes 15g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 cream cheese filling up to 24 hours in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. When you're ready to serve, simply fill the celery ribs and chill them for a bit before presenting them to your guests.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
If you're looking for a lighter alternative, consider using Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese for a vegan option. Both will provide a creamy texture, though the flavor will differ slightly. Adjust the quantity of milk to achieve your desired consistency.
Can I add other ingredients to the filling?
Absolutely! Feel free to add finely chopped herbs like chives or parsley for a fresh taste. You could also mix in some crumbled feta cheese or a dash of hot sauce for an extra flavor kick. Just be mindful of the balance between sweet and savory.
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).