Celery And Apple Crunch Salad

Name: Celery And Apple Crunch Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 stalks celery, sliced; 2 apples, diced (preferably one sweet and one tart); 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped; 1/4 cup dried cranberries; 1/4 cup Greek yogurt or mayonnaise; 1 tbsp lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Simple Inspiration

I love making this Celery and Apple Crunch Salad because it's a vibrant, refreshing dish that brightens up any meal. The crispness of the celery paired with the sweetness of the apples creates a delightful texture that is hard to resist. With a hint of tanginess from the dressing, this salad is not only delicious, but it's also incredibly easy to prepare. Perfect for lunch or as a side dish for dinner, it effortlessly combines healthy ingredients that I enjoy. It's a simple yet tasty way to elevate my everyday meals!

Created by

Nell Abernathy

Last updated on 2026-02-16T08:21:37.436Z

When I first created this Celery and Apple Crunch Salad, I wanted to make a light dish that would also be incredibly satisfying. The balance of flavors was essential, so I experimented with different dressings until I found the perfect combination of simplicity and zest. Using fresh ingredients, like crisp apples and crunchy celery, adds a vibrant look and a satisfying crunch that keeps me coming back for more!

One specific tip I discovered is to choose a variety of apples for added depth of flavor; a mix of sweet and tart can elevate the salad. The dressing's tanginess complements the crispness beautifully, making it a standout dish at any gathering. This salad is not just a side; it's a refreshing experience!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Crisp texture that refreshes your palate
Natural sweetness from fresh apples
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy days

      

Ingredient Insights

The choice of apples in this Celery and Apple Crunch Salad plays a significant role in balancing flavors. I recommend using a combination of a sweet apple, like Fuji or Gala, and a tart one, such as Granny Smith. This mix not only enhances the salad's natural sweetness but also adds depth with its contrasting tartness, making every bite exciting and refreshing.

Walnuts add a delightful crunch to the salad and also contribute healthy fats and protein. For those with nut allergies or preferences, feel free to swap them out for sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds, which provide a similar crunch without the allergens. To toast the nuts for extra flavor, heat them in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until they are golden and fragrant.

Dressing Variations

While Greek yogurt adds creaminess and a protein boost to the dressing, you can customize it according to your preference. If you're looking for a lighter version, substitute the yogurt with a dollop of silken tofu blended until smooth. Alternatively, for a vegan option, use plant-based mayonnaise. This will ensure that the dressing remains creamy while accommodating dietary restrictions.

For an added flavor twist, consider incorporating a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup into the dressing for those who prefer a sweeter touch. Additionally, a pinch of cayenne pepper can elevate the flavor profile with a subtle heat that complements the salad's crispness beautifully.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare this delightful salad:

Ingredients

4 stalks celery, sliced
2 apples, diced (preferably one sweet and one tart)
1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
1/4 cup dried cranberries
1/4 cup Greek yogurt or mayonnaise
1 tbsp lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix everything together in a bowl for a delicious salad!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your salad:

Prepare the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the sliced celery, diced apples, chopped walnuts, and dried cranberries.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise), lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.

Combine and Toss

Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and mix gently until everything is well coated. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

Serve

Enjoy the salad immediately or chill in the refrigerator for 10 minutes to enhance the flavors.

Your refreshing Celery and Apple Crunch Salad is ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For an added burst of flavor, try incorporating some feta cheese or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or mint.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you’re preparing this salad in advance, it’s best to keep the dressing separate until you're ready to serve. This prevents the celery and apples from becoming soggy and losing their crisp texture. You can prepare the salad ingredients a few hours ahead and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, allowing you to retain the freshness.

Chilled salads often taste better after flavors meld, so consider letting the assembled salad sit for about 10 minutes after dressing. However, be cautious not to let it sit too long, as the apples can brown. A sprinkle of lemon juice on the diced apples before assembling can help preserve their color.

Serving Suggestions

This Celery and Apple Crunch Salad serves wonderfully as a side dish for grilled chicken or fish, complementing heartier proteins with its refreshing notes. It can also be enjoyed as a light lunch alongside whole grain crackers or pita bread, making it versatile for different meal occasions.

For a unique twist, consider adding a few slices of avocado on top before serving. The creaminess of the avocado pairs well with the crunchiness of the salad, creating an even more satisfying texture. Additionally, adding fresh herbs like parsley or mint can enhance the freshness and visually elevate your presentation.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, but it’s best to add the dressing right before serving to preserve the crunchiness of the celery and apples.

→ What type of apples should I use?

I recommend using a mix of sweet apples like Fuji and tart ones like Granny Smith for a balanced flavor.

→ Can I use a different dressing?

Absolutely! You can substitute the Greek yogurt with a vinaigrette or any dressing of your choice.

→ Is this salad vegan?

To make it vegan, simply replace the Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt or use a vinaigrette.