Celery Salad With Apples And Walnuts

Name: Celery Salad With Apples And Walnuts
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4-5 stalks of celery, thinly sliced; 2 apples, diced (such as Granny Smith or Fuji); 1 cup walnuts, chopped; 1/4 cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional); 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Wellness Food

I love making Celery Salad with Apples and Walnuts, especially on days when I crave something fresh and crunchy. The combination of crisp celery, sweet apples, and rich walnuts creates a delightful textural contrast that's both satisfying and refreshing. With just a handful of ingredients, this salad can be whipped up in under 15 minutes, making it the perfect addition to any meal or a light snack on its own. It's so easy to prepare, and I always appreciate how vibrant and healthy it feels.

Created by

Cleo Winter

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:25:34.446Z

When I first made this Celery Salad with Apples and Walnuts, I was amazed by how such simple ingredients could come together to create something so flavorful. I experimented with adding a bit of lemon juice to brighten the flavors, and it really elevated the whole dish. The crunch from the celery and walnuts against the sweet apple was such a winning combination!

Over time, I’ve learned that the key is to slice the celery finely so it really blends with the other ingredients. Whether served on its own or as a side to grilled meats, this salad never disappoints. It's a versatile dish that I often find myself going back to!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Vibrant crunch from fresh celery and apples
Richness of walnuts adds a delightful texture
Perfectly refreshing for warm days or hearty meals

      

Ingredient Insights

Each ingredient in this Celery Salad plays a vital role in creating a balanced flavor profile. The celery provides a refreshing base with its high water content, contributing to the salad's crunch. Apples, particularly varieties like Granny Smith or Fuji, add a delightful sweetness that complements the nutty flavor of walnuts. Using ripe, crisp apples will enhance the salad's texture and give a fresh taste that works beautifully in contrast with the crunchy celery.

Walnuts are not just for crunch—they also bring healthy fats to the table, making the salad more satisfying. If you’re looking for a substitute for walnuts due to allergies, try using pecans or sunflower seeds; they will mimic the crunchiness without overpowering the other flavors. Dried fruits like raisins or cranberries can also be adjusted based on your preference, providing a touch of sweetness that can either enhance or replace the apples for different flavor profiles.

Prepping and Serving Tips

When preparing this salad, it’s essential to slice the celery thinly; this ensures a tender bite that marries well with the crispness of the apples. Aim for slices that are about 1/8 inch thick for optimal texture. Additionally, you can pre-chop the celery and apples a few hours in advance—just be sure to toss them with a bit of lemon juice to prevent browning. This makes the salad an ideal choice for meal prep and entertaining.

For serving, you can get creative! Try serving the salad in individual bowls or on a large platter for sharing. If you want to add a bit of flair, consider garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro, which can also enhance the overall flavor profile. This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish, making it a versatile addition to your meals.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for this refreshing salad:

Ingredients

4-5 stalks of celery, thinly sliced
2 apples, diced (such as Granny Smith or Fuji)
1 cup walnuts, chopped
1/4 cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional)
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare the salad:

Prepare the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the sliced celery, diced apples, chopped walnuts, and raisins if using.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Combine Salad

Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to combine everything well.

Serve

Let the salad sit for a few minutes for flavors to meld, then serve chilled or at room temperature.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider sprinkling some feta cheese or blue cheese on top before serving.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you're looking to make this salad ahead of time, keep the dressing separate until just before serving. This will help maintain the crispness of the celery and apples. The salad can last in the fridge for about 2-3 days, but it’s best consumed fresh to enjoy its vibrant texture. For any leftovers, simply store in an airtight container to keep it from wilting too quickly.

Should you find yourself with larger batches or leftovers, consider repurposing the salad into a wrap or sandwich filling. Just spread some cream cheese or hummus on a tortilla, add the salad, and you have a delicious and portable meal option!

Flavor Variations

You can easily customize this Celery Salad to suit your taste. For those who enjoy spiciness, adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can introduce a delightful heat that contrasts nicely with the sweet apples. Alternatively, for a more savory note, consider adding crumbled feta cheese or blue cheese, which can elevate the flavor complexity of the dish.

If you want to incorporate seasonal ingredients, this salad is adaptable. During summer months, consider adding fresh berries or stone fruits, while in the fall, chopped pears can complement the apples beautifully. The dressing can also be adjusted; try adding a teaspoon of honey for extra sweetness or a splash of apple cider vinegar for a tangy twist.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a few hours in advance. Just wait to add the dressing until you're ready to serve.

→ What type of apples work best in this salad?

Crisp and slightly tart apples like Granny Smith or Fuji are ideal, but you can use your favorite variety.

→ Can I substitute walnuts with another nut?

Absolutely! Feel free to use pecans or almonds for a different flavor and texture.

→ Is this salad suitable for a vegan diet?

Yes! All ingredients are plant-based, making it suitable for vegans.