Crunch & Cream Delight: Olive-Stuffed Celery with Zesty Cheese Filling
A refreshing, anti-inflammatory appetizer packed with flavor, healthy fats, and satisfying crunch.
If you’re looking for a healthy appetizer recipe, low-carb snack idea, or anti-inflammatory diet recipe, this Crunch & Cream Delight is a perfect choice. Crisp celery boats are filled with a creamy, zesty cheese mixture and topped with briny olives and sweet red peppers for a vibrant, nutrient-dense bite.
This recipe is ideal for keto meal prep, Mediterranean diet snacks, and gluten-free party appetizers.
🌿 Why This Recipe Is Anti-Inflammatory
This snack features ingredients known for their inflammation-fighting properties:
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Celery – Rich in antioxidants and flavonoids that help reduce oxidative stress
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Extra virgin olive oil – Contains oleocanthal, a natural anti-inflammatory compound
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Green olives – High in healthy monounsaturated fats
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Garlic & herbs – Support immune health and reduce inflammation
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Full-fat cheese (in moderation) – Provides healthy fats and protein for satiety
📝 Full Recipe
⏱ Prep Time: 15 minutes
🍽 Servings: 6 (about 24 celery sticks)
🛒 Ingredients
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12 large celery stalks, washed and trimmed
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1 cup cream cheese (softened, preferably organic or grass-fed)
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½ cup crumbled feta cheese
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1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
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1 teaspoon lemon zest
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1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
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1 clove garlic, minced
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¼ teaspoon black pepper
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¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
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½ teaspoon dried oregano (or fresh chopped herbs)
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½ cup sliced green olives
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2 tablespoons finely diced red bell pepper
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Optional: chopped parsley or chives for garnish
👩🍳 Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Celery
Cut celery stalks into 3–4 inch pieces. Pat dry thoroughly so filling adheres well.
2️⃣ Make the Zesty Cheese Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine:
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Cream cheese
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Feta
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Olive oil
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Lemon zest & juice
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Garlic
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Black pepper
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Smoked paprika
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Oregano
Mix until smooth and creamy.
3️⃣ Fill the Celery Boats
Spoon or pipe the mixture evenly into each celery stalk.
4️⃣ Add Toppings
Sprinkle sliced green olives and diced red bell peppers on top.
5️⃣ Chill & Serve
Refrigerate for 20–30 minutes to enhance flavor. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.
🍽 Serving Suggestions
These celery bites pair beautifully with:
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A Mediterranean mezze platter (hummus, olives, nuts, cucumber)
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Grilled salmon or herb-roasted chicken
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A glass of sparkling water with lemon
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As a healthy Super Bowl snack alternative
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As part of a weight-loss meal plan snack rotation
They also work wonderfully for:
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Baby showers
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Holiday gatherings
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Corporate catering events
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Clean-eating meal prep containers
🔄 Delicious Variations
🥑 Avocado Herb Version
Replace half the cream cheese with mashed avocado for extra anti-inflammatory fats.
🌶 Spicy Metabolism Boost
Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeño for a thermogenic kick.
🧄 Garlic & Turmeric Boost
Add ¼ teaspoon turmeric powder for enhanced anti-inflammatory benefits.
🥜 Dairy-Free Option
Use whipped cashew cream instead of cream cheese and feta.
🐟 Omega-3 Upgrade
Add finely chopped smoked salmon for a high-protein, brain-boosting snack.
🥗 Nutrition (Per 4 Pieces – Approximate)
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Calories: 180
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Protein: 5g
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Fat: 16g
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Carbohydrates: 4g
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Fiber: 2g
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Net Carbs: 2g
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Sugar: 1g
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Sodium: 280mg
✔ Keto-friendly
✔ Low carb
✔ Gluten-free
✔ Vegetarian
✔ Anti-inflammatory
❓ Related Questions People Ask
Is celery good for inflammation?
Yes. Celery contains antioxidants and phytonutrients that may reduce inflammation and support heart health.
Can I make stuffed celery ahead of time?
Absolutely. Prepare up to 24 hours in advance and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Is this recipe good for weight loss?
Yes. It’s low in carbs, high in healthy fats, and helps promote satiety.
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese?
Yes. Use full-fat Greek yogurt for a lighter, high-protein version.
Is this snack suitable for diabetics?
Generally yes, due to its low glycemic load, but always consult a healthcare provider.
🧠 Expert Tips for Best Results
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Use room-temperature cream cheese for smoother blending
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Pat celery completely dry before filling
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Pipe filling using a zip-top bag for a clean, elegant look
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Add toppings just before serving for maximum freshness
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Store leftovers up to 2 days (best texture within 24 hours)
🌟 Final Thoughts
Crunch & Cream Delight is more than just a simple stuffed celery recipe — it’s a nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory snack that aligns perfectly with clean eating, keto lifestyle plans, Mediterranean diet principles, and high-protein low-carb meal prep goals.
