Crunchy Celery Salad with Apples

Name: Crunchy Celery Salad with Apples
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 stalks celery, chopped; 2 apples (any variety), diced; 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped; 1/4 cup raisins; 1/4 cup plain yogurt; 1 teaspoon honey; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Light & Fresh

I absolutely love this Crunchy Celery Salad with Apples! Every bite feels refreshing and vibrant thanks to the crispness of the celery and the sweetness of the apples. The combination is not only delicious but also incredibly simple to prepare. Perfect for a quick lunch, a picnic, or a side dish at dinner, it brings a burst of flavor to any meal. Plus, with just a handful of ingredients, this salad is a great way to incorporate more crunch into your diet while keeping things healthy and light.

Created by

Lara

Last updated on 2026-01-30T02:15:28.019Z

When I first decided to make this Crunchy Celery Salad with Apples, I was surprised by how quickly it came together. It’s one of those recipes that doesn’t skimp on flavor yet requires minimal effort. I remember the first time I served it; the vibrant colors and fresh aroma drew everyone in. Using a mix of sweet and tart apples takes this salad to another level, adding depth to the otherwise simple ingredients.

One tip I discovered is to add a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving. Not only does it prevent the apples from browning, but it also enhances the flavors of the salad beautifully. By tossing the ingredients together just before eating, you ensure every bite is as fresh and crunchy as the first!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Crisp texture that offers a refreshing crunch
Perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors from the apples
Quick and easy preparation, ideal for busy days

Balancing Flavors and Textures

One of the key aspects of this Crunchy Celery Salad with Apples is the unique interplay of textures. The crisp celery adds a satisfying crunch that is complemented by the tender, juicy apples. When selecting apples, consider using a mix of tart and sweet varieties, such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp, to enhance the flavor profile. This mixture ensures that each bite is both refreshing and dimensional, making the salad engaging and lively on the palate.

The walnuts play a crucial role by adding not only crunch but also a rich nuttiness that rounds out the overall flavor. To maximize their impact, lightly toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 3-5 minutes until they are fragrant and golden. This step elevates their flavor, making the salad even more delicious. Remember to let them cool before adding to the salad to keep the dish fresh.

Customizing Your Salad

While the base ingredients shine in this salad, there’s plenty of room for personalizing it to match your taste preferences. For those looking for extra protein, consider adding grilled chicken or chickpeas, which will transform the salad into a more filling meal. You might also experiment with fresh herbs like parsley or mint, which can brighten up the salad and add an aromatic quality.

If you prefer a vegan dressing, simply substitute the yogurt with a plant-based yogurt or a tahini dressing. This swap will still provide a creamy texture and delightful tang without compromising on flavor. Likewise, if you're avoiding nuts due to allergies, feel free to omit the walnuts or replace them with sunflower seeds for a similar crunch.

Ingredients

4 stalks celery, chopped
2 apples (any variety), diced
1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
1/4 cup raisins
1/4 cup plain yogurt
1 teaspoon honey
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Chop the celery into bite-sized pieces and dice the apples. In a large bowl, combine the chopped celery and diced apples.

Mix the Salad

Add chopped walnuts and raisins to the bowl with celery and apples.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the yogurt, honey, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Combine Everything

Pour the yogurt dressing over the salad and mix gently until everything is well coated.

Serve

Serve the salad immediately or chill it in the refrigerator for 10 minutes before serving for a refreshing touch.

Pro Tips

For an extra crunch, consider adding toasted sunflower seeds or a dash of your favorite herbs for added flavor.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Crunchy Celery Salad can be made in advance, which makes it convenient for meal prepping. If you plan to store it, consider keeping the dressing separate until just before serving. This will prevent the celery from becoming soggy and will help maintain the freshness for up to 2 days in the refrigerator. Make sure to store the salad in an airtight container to preserve its crispness.

While it’s best fresh, if you do have leftovers, you can reinvigorate the salad by adding a splash of lemon juice just before serving to refresh the flavors. This is a great way to breathe new life into the salad and keep it delicious a day or two after preparation.

Serving Suggestions

This salad pairs wonderfully with a variety of main dishes. Try serving it alongside grilled fish or chicken for a balanced meal, or even as a light lunch on its own. You can also serve it at gatherings as an appealing side that complements heavier dishes, offering a refreshing contrast. For a more casual setting, pack it in a portable container for a picnic or a lunch at work.

For added flair, consider garnishing the salad with a sprinkle of feta cheese or crumbled goat cheese just before serving. This adds another layer of flavor and richness that balances well with the crisp vegetables and sweet apples. Alternatively, for a more colorful presentation, merging in sliced bell peppers or cherry tomatoes can create an even more vibrant dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of apples?

Absolutely! Mixing sweet and tart varieties can enhance the flavor of the salad.

→ How long will this salad last in the fridge?

It’s best enjoyed fresh but can be refrigerated for 1-2 days. Just be aware that the celery may soften over time.

→ Can I substitute yogurt for another ingredient?

Yes, you can use mayonnaise or a vinaigrette if you prefer a different dressing style.

→ Is this salad vegan-friendly?

To make it vegan, simply replace the yogurt with a plant-based yogurt alternative.