Celery Salad With Apples

Name: Celery Salad With Apples
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 stalks of celery, chopped; 2 medium apples, diced; 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped; 1/4 cup raisins; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 2 tablespoons honey; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Lean & Tasty

I’ve always loved the crunch of fresh vegetables, and this Celery Salad With Apples takes that texture to a whole new level. The crispness of the celery combined with the sweetness of the apples creates a delightful contrast that’s perfect for a refreshing side dish or a light meal. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights. Whether you’re enjoying it at a picnic or as part of a dinner spread, this salad is sure to impress everyone at the table.

Created by

Natalie Briggs

Last updated on 2026-02-02T01:05:36.094Z

When I first created this Celery Salad with Apples, I wanted something that combined vibrant flavors and textures. The sweet, crisp apples and bright green celery are not just pleasing to the eye but also provide a refreshing bite that is perfect for any occasion. I recommend using tart apples like Granny Smith for an extra zing!

What really sets this salad apart is the dressing. I love adding a hint of lemon juice and honey, which brightens the whole combination. It’s a perfect complement to the natural sweetness of the apples and gives a subtle depth that makes each bite memorable. This is a salad that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Refreshing crunch that brightens up any meal
Sweet and tangy dressing perfectly balances the flavors
Quick to prepare, making it a favorite for busy days

      

The Benefits of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh and crisp celery not only enhances the crunch of the salad but also infuses it with a refreshing flavor that's hard to beat. When selecting your celery, look for stalks that are firm and bright in color, avoiding those that are wilted or discolored. Fresh apples bring their own unique sweetness to the dish, and varieties such as Honeycrisp or Fuji work particularly well due to their balance of sweetness and tartness.

Walnuts introduce a rich, nutty flavor and a satisfying texture that complements the crunchy vegetables beautifully. If you have nut allergies, feel free to substitute sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a similar crunch without the allergens. The addition of raisins enhances the sweetness factor while providing a chewy contrast, balancing the crispness of the celery and apples.

Perfecting the Dressing

The dressing for this salad is simple yet impactful, as the combination of lemon juice and honey creates a sweet and tangy flavor that ties the whole dish together. To ensure the dressing mixes thoroughly, whisk it until it appears glossy and emulsified. If you prefer a zippier taste, consider adding a pinch of Dijon mustard or a splash of apple cider vinegar to the dressing to elevate the flavor profile even more.

For those with dietary restrictions, maple syrup can easily replace honey for a vegan alternative without sacrificing sweetness. Just be mindful of the type of lemon juice used; fresh lemon juice provides a brighter flavor than bottled varieties, making the salad remarkably vibrant.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

4 stalks of celery, chopped
2 medium apples, diced
1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
1/4 cup raisins
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons honey
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Combine Ingredients

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

Make the Dressing

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice and honey until well combined.

Dress the Salad

Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to ensure everything is evenly coated.

Season

Add salt and pepper to taste, mixing well to incorporate.

Serve

Chill for 10 minutes before serving, allowing flavors to meld.

Pro Tips

Feel free to add in other ingredients like diced cucumbers or bell peppers to customize this salad to your taste!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Celery Salad With Apples is a fantastic make-ahead dish, as the flavors develop beautifully when left to chill for a bit. If preparing in advance, I recommend storing the salad in an airtight container and keeping the dressing separate until just before serving to maintain the crunchiness of the celery and apples.

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but be aware that the apples may start to brown and the salad may lose some of its crunch over time. To refresh the salad upon serving, consider adding a bit more fresh lemon juice to revive the flavors.

Serving Suggestions

This salad works wonderfully as a refreshing side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish, making it perfect for picnics or barbecues. For a heartier option, you can transform it into a meal by adding cooked quinoa or chickpeas, which will provide additional protein and fiber.

For an elevated presentation, serve the salad in a hollowed-out apple for a seasonal touch. This not only looks appealing but also utilizes every part of the ingredient, reducing waste and enhancing the dish's flavor profile.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a few hours in advance, but add the dressing just before serving to keep the celery crunchy.

→ What type of apples work best for this recipe?

I recommend using a tart apple like Granny Smith for a nice contrast to the sweetness of the honey.

→ How can I make this salad vegan?

Simply replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.

→ Can I add protein to this salad?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken or chickpeas would make excellent additions for a heartier meal.