Crunchy Celery Apple Salad

Name: Crunchy Celery Apple Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 stalks of celery, diced; 2 apples, diced (preferably tart varieties like Granny Smith); 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped; 1/4 cup raisins or dried cranberries; 1/4 cup Greek yogurt; 2 tablespoons mayonnaise; Juice of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy Table Creations

I adore this Crunchy Celery Apple Salad for its refreshing qualities and delightful textures. The crispness of the celery combined with the sweetness of the apples creates a perfect balance. Tossing in some nuts adds an exciting crunch, while the light dressing ties everything together beautifully. Whether as a side dish or a light meal, this salad is a delightful addition to any table. Each bite is a burst of flavor, revitalizing my senses, making it a staple in my kitchen.

Created by

Adeline Morris

Last updated on 2026-02-15T04:21:36.159Z

While experimenting with different salad combinations, I stumbled upon this Crunchy Celery Apple Salad. I wanted something light yet satisfying that could serve as a refreshing side or a healthy snack. The combination of crisp celery, tart apples, and a nutty crunch blew my expectations. To elevate the flavor, I opted for a simple lemon vinaigrette which brightens up the entire dish.

During my various attempts, I learned that letting the salad sit for about 10 minutes before serving allows the flavors to meld beautifully. The key is to keep the ingredients fresh and not over-dress it, ensuring that every bite remains crunchy and flavorful. This way, it remains a vibrant dish on your table!

You'll Love This Salad For
The perfect crunch from celery and apples
Nutty texture from the added walnuts
Refreshing and easy to make!

Understanding the Ingredients

Every component of the Crunchy Celery Apple Salad plays a critical role in achieving the desired flavor and texture. The celery not only adds crunch but also a refreshing, slightly peppery bite that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the apples. Opting for tart apple varieties like Granny Smith is crucial; their acidity balances the richness of the dressing and enhances the overall flavor profile of the salad.

Walnuts contribute a nutty depth and healthy fats, making the salad more filling. Chopping them into smaller pieces not only helps integrate their flavor throughout the dish but also provides that crunchy texture. If you’re not a fan of walnuts or have allergies, feel free to substitute with pecans or sunflower seeds for a similar crunch.

Mastering the Dressing

The dressing for this salad is light, creamy, and packed with flavor. Mixing Greek yogurt with mayonnaise creates a balance of tanginess and creaminess that enhances rather than overwhelms the fresh ingredients. When combining these, make sure to whisk until the mixture is smooth and glossy to ensure every bite of the salad is coated evenly with flavor.

Adjusting the amount of lemon juice, salt, or pepper to suit your taste is essential. I like my dressing a little tangier, so I often add an extra squeeze of lemon. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, try using silken tofu blended until creamy in place of Greek yogurt.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for this vibrant salad:

Salad Ingredients

4 stalks of celery, diced
2 apples, diced (preferably tart varieties like Granny Smith)
1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
1/4 cup raisins or dried cranberries
1/4 cup Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure everything is fresh for the best result!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your salad:

Prepare the Ingredients

Start by washing and dicing the celery and apples into bite-sized pieces. Chop the walnuts and set aside.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, mix the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Combine Salad

In a large bowl, combine the diced celery, apples, walnuts, and dried fruits. Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated.

Serve chilled for the best flavor!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider including a sprinkle of cinnamon or adding some diced grapes for sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

This Crunchy Celery Apple Salad makes for an excellent side dish at barbecues or picnics, but it can also stand alone as a light lunch. Pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a delightful and complete meal. For a more filling option, consider adding cooked quinoa or chickpeas, which will enhance both the protein content and texture.

I love serving this salad chilled, so if time allows, refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes before serving. The resting time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, giving each bite a richer taste.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This salad can be prepared a day in advance, making it a fantastic choice for meal prepping. However, consider storing the dressing separately until you're ready to serve. This method keeps the celery and apples crisp and prevents the salad from becoming watery. The apples may oxidize a bit, but a drizzle of lemon juice on them before mixing can help preserve their bright color.

When storing leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This salad is best consumed within two days; however, if the apples begin to soften, consider repurposing the salad by blending it into a smoothie for a nutritious snack!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance, but it's best to add the dressing just before serving to keep the ingredients fresh.

→ What type of apples work best?

Tart apples like Granny Smith add a nice contrast to the sweetness of the dressing, but feel free to use your favorite variety!

→ Can I substitute the walnuts?

Certainly! You can use pecans, almonds, or even sunflower seeds for a nut-free option.

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, this salad is gluten-free as long as the Greek yogurt and mayonnaise used are certified gluten-free.