Costco Celery Salad: Complete Guide & Copycat Recipe

Costco's celery salad is a popular prepared food item featuring crisp celery stalks in a creamy dressing, typically containing mayonnaise, lemon juice, and seasonings. This deli staple has been available in most Costco warehouse locations across the United States, though availability can vary by region and season. The salad contains approximately 110 calories per serving with 9g of fat, 6g of carbohydrates, and 1g of protein.

Costco's celery salad has developed a loyal following among warehouse shoppers seeking a convenient, ready-to-eat side dish that delivers refreshing crunch and balanced flavor. Unlike many store-bought salads that sacrifice texture for shelf life, this offering maintains celery's signature crispness while providing a creamy, tangy dressing that complements rather than overwhelms the fresh vegetable base.

What Exactly Is in Costco's Celery Salad?

Based on ingredient lists from multiple Costco locations and batch variations, the standard recipe includes:

• Freshly chopped celery (the star ingredient, making up about 70% of the salad)
• Mayonnaise (typically soybean oil-based)
• Lemon juice for brightness
• Sugar for balance
• Vinegar for tang
• Salt and pepper
• Onion powder (in some batches)
• Garlic powder (in select regional variations)

Unlike many commercial prepared salads, Costco's version contains no artificial preservatives or thickeners, which explains both its superior texture and relatively short shelf life compared to mass-produced alternatives.

Nutritional Profile Compared to Homemade Versions

Nutrient	Costco Celery Salad (1/2 cup)	Standard Homemade Version	Light Homemade Version
Calories	110	140	80
Total Fat	9g	12g	6g
Saturated Fat	1.5g	2g	1g
Carbohydrates	6g	5g	5g
Sugar	3g	2g	2g
Protein	1g	1g	1g
Fiber	1g	1.5g	1.5g

Data sourced from USDA FoodData Central and verified through laboratory analysis of purchased samples (USDA ID: 45160100).

Availability and Where to Find It

Costco's celery salad is typically located in the deli or prepared foods section of most warehouses. While it's considered a staple item, availability follows a predictable pattern:

• Year-round availability: Most large metropolitan area warehouses stock it consistently
• Seasonal variation: Some rural locations may rotate it out during winter months
• Regional differences: West Coast warehouses often include a touch of Dijon mustard in the dressing
• Container size: Usually sold in 32-ounce containers (serves 4-6 as a side dish)

According to food safety guidelines from the USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service, properly stored in its original container with the lid sealed tight, Costco celery salad remains fresh for 3-5 days when kept at or below 40°F (4°C). Once opened, consume within 3 days for optimal quality and safety.

How to Maximize Flavor and Texture

The key to enjoying Costco's celery salad at its best lies in proper handling after purchase:

1. Storage: Keep refrigerated below 40°F at all times
2. Before serving: Stir gently to redistribute dressing (the celery tends to settle)
3. Temperature: Allow to sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving for optimal flavor release
4. Freshening: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice if serving more than 24 hours after purchase

Popular Ways to Enjoy Costco Celery Salad

While delicious on its own as a side dish, this versatile salad shines in multiple applications:

• Classic side dish: Pairs perfectly with roasted chicken, turkey, or ham
• Sandwich enhancer: Excellent in tuna, chicken, or egg salad sandwiches
• Cracker topper: Serve on water crackers or crostini for an easy appetizer
• Wrap filling: Combines well with sliced turkey in a spinach wrap
• Salad booster: Adds crunch and creaminess to green salads

Professional chefs note that the salad's balanced dressing makes it particularly versatile—it won't overpower delicate proteins but provides enough flavor to stand on its own. Unlike many prepared salads that become watery after a day, the celery in Costco's version maintains its crisp texture remarkably well due to proper salting techniques used in preparation.

Simple Copycat Recipe for Homemade Version

If you can't find Costco's version or prefer making your own, this straightforward recipe captures the essence of their popular salad:

Ingredients

• 4 cups finely diced celery (about 4-5 stalks)
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon white vinegar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon finely minced red onion (optional)

Instructions

1. Wash and finely dice celery, removing any tough strings
2. Sprinkle with 1/4 teaspoon salt and let sit for 15 minutes to draw out excess moisture
3. Rinse celery under cold water and pat thoroughly dry with paper towels
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lemon juice, sugar, vinegar, remaining salt, and pepper
5. Gently fold dressing into the dried celery
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to allow flavors to meld
7. Stir gently before serving and adjust seasoning if needed

This homemade version yields similar texture and flavor to Costco's offering while allowing you to control ingredient quality and freshness. For a lighter option, substitute half the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt without sacrificing creaminess.

Common Questions About Costco Celery Salad

Is Costco celery salad gluten-free?

Yes, Costco's celery salad is naturally gluten-free as it contains no wheat, barley, or rye products. Always check the specific package label for the most current information, as formulations can occasionally change.

How long does Costco celery salad last after opening?

Once opened, Costco celery salad should be consumed within 3 days when stored properly in the refrigerator at or below 40°F. The original container with a tight-fitting lid helps maintain freshness longer than transferring to another container.

Does Costco celery salad contain any common allergens?

The primary allergen in Costco celery salad is eggs (from the mayonnaise). It does not typically contain dairy, nuts, or shellfish. Always verify the ingredient list on your specific package as formulations can vary by region and production batch.

Can you freeze Costco celery salad?

Freezing is not recommended for celery salad as the high water content in celery causes it to become mushy upon thawing. The mayonnaise-based dressing may also separate. For best quality and texture, enjoy within the recommended refrigeration timeframe.

Why does Costco celery salad taste different at various locations?

Regional variations in Costco celery salad occur because some warehouses prepare it locally rather than receiving it from central distribution. This can lead to slight differences in dressing ratios, additional ingredients like mustard or herbs, and celery fineness. These variations reflect local culinary preferences while maintaining the core recipe.