Ingredients
- 6 or 7 stalks of celery, rinsed and dried
- 1 (8-ounce) block of cream cheese, softened
- 1 (0.7-ounce) package Italian dressing mix
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup cooked and finely shredded chicken or beef (optional for added protein)
- Dried parsley and paprika for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Celery
Begin by thoroughly washing the celery stalks under running water. Use a paper towel or clean kitchen cloth to dry them. Removing excess moisture ensures that the filling sticks better.
Using a sharp knife, trim both ends of the celery stalks and cut them into three equal pieces. Set the pieces aside on a clean plate or tray.
2. Make the Filling
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, Italian dressing mix, mayonnaise, and shredded mozzarella. If you are adding shredded chicken or beef for extra protein, mix it in at this stage. Stir everything together until the mixture is smooth and well combined. The Italian dressing mix provides a rich, herby flavor, making additional seasoning unnecessary.
3. Stuff the Celery
Using a spoon or small spatula, scoop the cream cheese mixture and spread it into the hollow part of each celery piece. Try to fill each one evenly without overloading them.
4. Garnish and Chill
For an added touch of flavor and presentation, sprinkle dried parsley and paprika over the stuffed celery. The paprika adds a subtle smoky flavor, while the parsley provides a fresh, vibrant finish.
Place the stuffed celery pieces on a serving plate and refrigerate them for at least 15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and makes the filling slightly firmer.
Notes
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
- Using Cold Cream Cheese: If the cream cheese is too firm, it will be difficult to mix. Let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before starting.
- Overfilling the Celery: Adding too much filling can make the pieces difficult to handle. A moderate amount works best.
- Not Drying the Celery: Excess moisture can make the filling slide off. Make sure to pat the celery dry before stuffing.
Helpful Kitchen Tips
- Efficient Prep: To save time, chop the celery while waiting for the cream cheese to soften.
- Storage Tip: Store leftover stuffed celery in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days.
- Substituting Tools: If you do not have a rotary cheese grater, pre-shredded mozzarella works fine, but freshly grated cheese melts better into the mixture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes