Celery Salad With Apple And Walnuts

Name: Celery Salad With Apple And Walnuts
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 stalks of celery, chopped; 1 apple, diced (preferably a sweet variety); 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped; 1/4 cup raisins or dried cranberries; 2 tablespoons mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Light Wellness Dishes

I absolutely love the refreshing crunch and unique flavor combination in my Celery Salad with Apple and Walnuts. This salad has quickly become a favorite for its delightful blend of textures and tastes. The crispness of the celery paired with the sweetness of the apples and the rich, nutty flavor of walnuts creates a salad that's not only delicious but also visually appealing. Perfect as a side dish or a light lunch, it’s a go-to recipe for any occasion and always garners compliments at gatherings.

Created by

Ella Townsend

Last updated on 2026-01-22T07:46:10.041Z

When I first experimented with this Celery Salad with Apple and Walnuts, I was amazed by how simple ingredients could transform into something so delightful. The crunchiness of the celery is perfectly complemented by the sweetness of the apples, while the walnuts add a satisfying nuttiness. One little trick I found is to toss the salad right before serving to maintain its crispness, enhancing that fresh texture.

Additionally, I like adding a touch of lemon juice as it not only brightens the flavors but also prevents the apples from browning. Every time I make this salad, it gets rave reviews, and I've even made it for friends and family gatherings, where it always disappears quickly!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Crisp and refreshing, perfect for a warm day
Unique blend of flavors that keeps you coming back for more
Easy to prepare, yet impressively elegant

Understanding the Ingredients

The star of this Celery Salad is undoubtedly the celery itself. It provides not only a satisfying crunch but also a mild flavor that balances well with the sweetness of the apples. Opt for fresh, bright green stalks for the best taste and texture. I recommend using a sweet apple variety like Honeycrisp or Fuji, as their sweetness complements the earthy nuttiness of the walnuts and the tangy dressing beautifully.

Walnuts serve multiple purposes in this salad. Not only do they add a wonderful crunch, but their natural oils contribute richness to every bite. If you're looking for a lighter option, feel free to substitute with chopped pecans or almonds. However, if you choose to omit nuts altogether for dietary reasons, consider adding toasted sesame seeds to maintain that desired crunch.

Techniques for Mixing and Serving

When mixing salad ingredients, use a large bowl to give yourself plenty of space to toss everything together. I recommend using a spoon or a spatula rather than a whisk to avoid bruising the delicate apple pieces. Gently fold the dressing in to ensure it coats the ingredients evenly without breaking apart the apple or celery too much, as maintaining structure is key for texture.

This salad is best enjoyed immediately after mixing. The dressing may cause the celery to wilt if left to sit for too long. If you are making it ahead, consider preparing the salad components and the dressing separately. Combine them just before serving to keep everything crisp and fresh. If you're storing leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within a day to ensure optimal freshness.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients

4 stalks of celery, chopped
1 apple, diced (preferably a sweet variety)
1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
1/4 cup raisins or dried cranberries
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Mix well and enjoy!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps:

Prepare the Ingredients

Start by washing and chopping the celery. Dice the apple, making sure to remove any seeds. Chop the walnuts to your preferred size, and if you're using raisins or dried cranberries, measure them out.

Mix the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the chopped celery, diced apple, walnuts, and raisins or cranberries. In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise with lemon juice, adding salt and pepper to taste. Pour the dressing over the salad.

Toss and Serve

Gently toss the salad until everything is well coated. Serve immediately for the best texture, garnishing with fresh parsley if desired.

Enjoy this delicious salad!

Pro Tips

For an added touch, consider adding a handful of feta cheese or crumbled blue cheese for extra flavor. You can also substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise for a lighter version.

Serving Suggestions

Celery Salad with Apple and Walnuts can be a versatile side dish. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish, complementing their savory flavors with its raw crunch and slight sweetness. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside crusty bread and cheese or even atop a bed of greens for a complete salad.

Consider garnishing with a sprinkle of feta cheese or crumbled goat cheese to add a creamy element, enhancing the overall flavor profile. Fresh herbs such as dill or mint could also offer a refreshing twist. Adjusting these toppings based on what you have on hand can make this salad feel new each time you prepare it.

Storage Tips

If you need to prepare this salad in advance, store the chopped celery and apples in separate containers to prevent them from browning and losing their crunch. When ready to enjoy, combine the components and dress them just before serving. This way, you'll enjoy the salad at its best—freshness and crunch intact.

You can also store leftover salad in the fridge, but keep in mind that the texture may soften over time. To prolong its freshness, try to consume any leftovers within a day. The salad will still taste good, but the crunch of the celery will reduce. If you enjoy it less sweet, try using tart apples or adjust the amount of dressing for a more balanced flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, but it's best to add the dressing just before serving to keep the ingredients fresh and crunchy.

→ What other nuts can I use?

Feel free to substitute walnuts with pecans or almonds for a different flavor profile.

→ Is there a vegan option for the dressing?

Absolutely! You can use vegan mayonnaise or simply a blend of olive oil and vinegar for a lighter dressing.

→ Can I add other fruits to this salad?

Yes! Pears or grapes would also work wonderfully in this salad.