Crispy Celery and Apple Salad

Name: Crispy Celery and Apple Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 stalks of celery, diced; 2 apples, cored and chopped; 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped; 1/4 cup raisins; 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Clean & Simple Meals

I love the refreshing crunch of this Crispy Celery and Apple Salad, especially on hot days when I want something light yet satisfying. The combination of crisp celery, sweet apples, and a tangy dressing creates a vibrant flavor that's hard to resist. It’s the perfect dish to serve at gatherings or even as a quick lunch. I often make it as a side for grilled meats or on its own for a healthy snack. Trust me, once you try it, you'll find yourself craving this salad regularly.

Created by

Tom

Last updated on 2026-01-30T05:01:30.118Z

Making this Crispy Celery and Apple Salad was a delightful experience, as I experimented with different dressings until I landed on the perfect balance. The addition of lemon juice not only brightens the salad but also helps to prevent the apples from browning too quickly. I discovered that tossing the apples with celery before adding the dressing helps them stay crunchy.

Years of making salads have taught me the importance of texture, and the combination of crisp celery and tender apples gives this dish a satisfying bite. I encourage adding a handful of nuts for extra crunch, as it elevates the flavor and makes it even more delightful.

Why You Will Love This Salad
Refreshing crunch from fresh celery and apples
Bright and zesty dressing that complements the ingredients
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for any occasion

Understanding the Ingredients

The combination of crisp celery and sweet apples is fundamental to this salad. Celery adds a refreshing crunch, while apples contribute a sweet and juicy contrast. I recommend using a variety like Honeycrisp or Fuji for their balance of sweetness and crunch. Also, your choice of walnuts is crucial; opt for fresh, unsalted walnuts for the best texture. Toasting them lightly in a dry pan for 5-7 minutes enhances their flavor and adds a warm, nutty quality to your dish.

Raisins bring a burst of chewiness to the mix, but feel free to substitute with dried cranberries or chopped dates for a different sweetness profile. The tangy Greek yogurt dressing ties everything together, providing creaminess without being overly heavy. If you have a dairy intolerance, a plant-based yogurt works well here; just ensure it’s unsweetened to maintain the salad's balance.

Preparation Tips

Preparation is simple but arranging the ingredients thoughtfully can elevate your salad. When chopping celery, aim for uniform pieces about 1/2 inch thick to ensure even mixing and texture. As for the apples, toss them in a bit of lemon juice immediately after chopping to prevent browning. This not only preserves their vibrant color but enhances the tartness that complements the other flavors in your salad.

When it comes to the dressing, mix it in a bowl that allows room for vigorous stirring. Whisk the ingredients until the mixture is completely smooth and glossy. Aim for a creamy consistency; if it feels too thick, a splash of water or additional lemon juice can help loosen it. It’s important to coat the salad evenly with the dressing to ensure every bite is flavorful. Toss gently to avoid bruising the apples and celery.

Ingredients

Gather the following fresh ingredients to make this delicious salad:

Salad Ingredients

4 stalks of celery, diced
2 apples, cored and chopped
1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
1/4 cup raisins
1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

These ingredients will provide a balanced and fresh salad that's perfect for any meal!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Crispy Celery and Apple Salad:

Prepare the Ingredients

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

Make the Dressing

In a separate bowl, mix the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Combine and Toss

Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently until everything is well coated.

Serve

Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for 10 minutes before serving, if desired.

Enjoy your fresh and crunchy salad as a perfect side dish or light meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding shredded carrots or swapping the walnuts for pecans. You can also make the salad a few hours in advance
however, it’s best enjoyed fresh to maintain its crunch.

Serving Suggestions

This salad is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with grilled meats such as chicken or fish. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside quinoa or on a bed of mixed greens, creating a nutrient-packed dish that is still light and refreshing. If you want to add protein, shredded chicken or chickpeas can be mixed in effortlessly without overpowering the salad's delicate balance.

To make the most of this salad during the week, prepare the salad base—celery, apples, walnuts, and raisins—up to a day in advance and keep it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to add the dressing right before serving to maintain the crunchiness of the vegetables. This strategy also makes it a perfect choice for take-along lunches or picnics.

Variations and Customizations

One of the wonderful aspects of this salad is its adaptability. Swap out walnuts for pecans or almond slivers for a different texture and flavor. You can also experiment with the dressing; perhaps add a spoonful of honey for sweetness or a dash of Dijon mustard for a little zing. Fresh herbs such as parsley or mint can lend a nice freshness to the salad, elevating the overall experience.

For an added health boost, consider including ingredients like sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for extra crunch and nutrients. If you're feeling adventurous, try adding finely chopped celery leaves for additional flavor and a pop of color. Each change brings a unique twist, allowing you to enjoy this salad in many delightful ways.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, it can be made a few hours in advance, but for the best texture, serve it fresh.

→ What other nuts can I use in this salad?

Pecans, almonds, or even sunflower seeds all make great alternatives to walnuts.

→ How long will leftovers last?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, but the salad may become less crunchy.

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free as it does not contain any wheat products.