Looking for a quick and flavorful snack that packs a punch? These Zesty Stuffed Celery Boats are your answer. With a creamy, cheesy filling and a touch of spice, they're perfect for any occasion.
The star of our recipe is the humble celery stalk, which provides a refreshing crunch and acts as a perfect vessel for our filling. The creamy base is created using cream cheese, which adds a rich texture, while sharp cheddar cheese brings a deep, tangy flavor. A blend of smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper kicks up the spice level just right. A touch of salt enhances all the flavors, and a splash of lemon juice brightens the mix. Finally, walnuts and fresh parsley add a crunchy, herby finish.
These Zesty Stuffed Celery Boats are fantastic as a standalone snack, but they also pair wonderfully with other finger foods like deviled eggs or a charcuterie board. For a light meal, serve them with a fresh salad or alongside a bowl of soup for added crunch.
First things first, you'll want to start by giving your celery stalks a good wash and dry. This ensures they're clean and ready to hold all that delicious filling. Once that's done, set them aside for later.
Next, grab a medium-sized bowl and combine the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and salt. Mix until smooth and well combined — this is your tasty filling.
Add in the lemon juice and give it another quick mix. This will add a zesty kick and help to meld the flavors together beautifully.
Now, take your prepared celery stalks and spoon the cheese mixture into each one, pressing gently to ensure it's evenly filled. It's okay if things get a little messy — that's half the fun!
For the finishing touch, sprinkle the walnuts and parsley on top. This not only adds texture but also makes the celery boats look extra enticing.
Finally, cut each filled stalk into 3 or 4 pieces, depending on your desired serving size, and you're ready to go!