Mediterranean Cranberry Pecan Holiday Celery Boats
Mediterranean Cranberry Pecan Holiday Celery Boats are a fresh, festive appetizer that balances creamy, crunchy, and lightly sweet flavors. They are perfect for holiday gatherings when you want something elegant but effortless. Crisp celery provides a refreshing base, while the creamy filling brings richness without feeling heavy. Cranberries and toasted pecans add a seasonal touch that feels celebratory and colorful. This recipe works equally well as a party starter, a light snack, or a healthier addition to a holiday spread. Best of all, it comes together quickly with simple ingredients you likely already have.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 5 minutes (for toasting pecans)
Total time: 20 minutes
Servings: 8 to 10 celery boats, depending on stalk size
Ingredients
Celery Boats
4 to 5 large celery stalks, washed, dried, and trimmed
Creamy Filling
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
Substitutes: goat cheese, sour cream, or Greek yogurt
1 to 2 teaspoons honey, optional
Sea salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Festive Toppings
1 third cup dried cranberries
1 third cup pecans, toasted and roughly chopped
Fresh parsley or mint, finely chopped, optional for garnish
Instructions
Prepare the Celery
Wash the celery stalks thoroughly and pat them dry. Trim off the leafy tops and the base ends. Cut each stalk into 3 to 4 inch pieces to create boat-sized sections. Arrange them on a serving platter or tray with the hollow side facing up.
Toast the Pecans
Place pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat. Toast for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant and lightly browned. Remove from heat and let them cool completely before chopping. This step enhances their flavor and adds extra crunch.
Make the Creamy Filling
In a medium bowl, add the softened cream cheese. Use a fork or spatula to mix until smooth and spreadable. Stir in honey if using, then season lightly with sea salt and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If using Greek yogurt or sour cream, you may want to add a bit more seasoning for balance.
Fill the Celery Boats
Using a spoon or small offset spatula, generously fill each celery piece with the creamy mixture. Smooth the top slightly, but do not overfill. The filling should sit comfortably inside the celery without spilling over.
Add the Festive Toppings
Sprinkle dried cranberries evenly over the filled celery. Follow with chopped toasted pecans, pressing gently so they stick to the filling. Finish with a light garnish of fresh parsley or mint if desired.
Serve or Chill
Serve immediately for maximum crunch, or cover and refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving. If chilling, add garnishes just before serving for the best presentation.
Tips for Best Results
Use fresh, firm celery for the best crunch and structure. Limp celery will not hold the filling well.
Let the cream cheese soften fully at room temperature to avoid lumps in the filling.
Toasting the pecans is optional but highly recommended for deeper flavor.
For a smoother texture, whip the filling with a hand mixer for 30 seconds.
If making ahead, store the filling separately and assemble just before serving.
Variations
Savory Mediterranean Style: Skip the honey and add a pinch of garlic powder or lemon zest to the filling.
Vegan Option: Use dairy-free cream cheese or thick cashew yogurt and sweeten with maple syrup.
Extra Protein: Mix in finely chopped walnuts or add a sprinkle of hemp seeds.
Spiced Holiday Twist: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for warmth.
Fruit Swap: Replace cranberries with chopped dried figs or apricots for a softer sweetness.
Q/A
Q: What is this recipe?
A: A festive Mediterranean style appetizer made with crisp celery filled with a creamy cheese mixture and topped with cranberries and toasted pecans.
Q: How long does it take to prepare?
A: About 20 minutes total, including pecan toasting.
Q: How many servings does it make?
A: Makes 8 to 10 celery boats, depending on celery size.
Q: Can I make it ahead of time?
A: Yes. You can prepare it up to 2 hours in advance and refrigerate. Add garnishes just before serving.
Q: What cheese works best?
A: Cream cheese works best, but goat cheese, Greek yogurt, or sour cream can be used.
Q: Are the pecans necessary?
A: They add crunch and flavor, but you can substitute walnuts, almonds, or sunflower seeds.
Q: Is this recipe sweet or savory?
A: It is lightly sweet with a balanced savory and creamy flavor.
Q: How should it be served?
A: Serve chilled or at room temperature as a party appetizer or light holiday snack.
Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)
Calories: 110 to 130
Protein: 3 to 4 grams
Fat: 8 to 9 grams
Carbohydrates: 7 to 9 grams
Fiber: 1 to 2 grams
Sugar: 4 to 5 grams
Values will vary depending on the type of filling used and portion size.
Conclusion
Mediterranean Cranberry Pecan Holiday Celery Boats are proof that simple ingredients can create something special. They offer a refreshing contrast to heavier holiday dishes while still feeling festive and indulgent. The combination of creamy filling, crisp celery, and seasonal toppings makes them a reliable crowd-pleaser. This recipe is flexible, easy to customize, and ideal for both casual and formal gatherings. Whether you serve them as an appetizer or a light snack, they bring color, flavor, and balance to the table. Once you try them, they are likely to become a holiday staple you return to year after year.