Creamy Celery Apple Salad

Name: Creamy Celery Apple Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 3 cups of diced celery; 2 cups of diced apples (preferably Granny Smith for tartness); 1 cup of chopped walnuts (optional); 1/2 cup of raisins; 1/2 cup of mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon of lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon of honey (optional)

Highlighted under: Wellness Kitchen

I absolutely adore this Creamy Celery Apple Salad! The crunch of fresh celery paired with the sweetness of ripe apples creates a perfect balance that brightens my day. I love how the creamy dressing ties everything together, providing a rich yet refreshing flavor. It’s a versatile side dish that complements many meals, making it a go-to recipe for picnics, BBQs, or quick weekday lunches. I can’t wait for you to try this delightful salad and experience its vibrant taste for yourself!

Created by

Naomi Clarke

Last updated on 2026-02-01T15:53:35.616Z

When I first experimented with this creamy salad, I was looking for a dish that balanced richness with freshness. I found that adding a splash of lemon juice not only brightened the flavors but also kept the apples from browning too quickly. This tip is a small but effective trick that made all the difference!

Each bite of this salad is a delightful crunch, and I love how versatile it is. You can enjoy it as a hearty side or a light main dish. Next time, consider swapping in walnuts for an extra layer of flavor!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Crisp apples and crunchy celery create an exciting texture fusion
Creamy dressing that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly light
Perfect for any occasion, from casual lunches to festive gatherings

Choosing the Right Apples

The choice of apple plays a critical role in the overall flavor profile of the Creamy Celery Apple Salad. I recommend using Granny Smith apples for their tartness, which contrasts beautifully with the creamy dressing. Their firmness also helps maintain a crisp texture, essential for the salad's crunch. If you're looking for a sweeter variation, Honeycrisp apples can lend a delightful sweetness while still offering a satisfying crunch.

Moreover, apples can brown quickly when cut, which might not be visually appealing. To keep your apples looking fresh for longer, toss them in a little lemon juice right after dicing. This not only prevents oxidation but also enhances the zesty flavor that complements the creamy dressing perfectly.

Assembly Tips

Combining the ingredients in the right order is important for ensuring all the flavors meld together harmoniously. Start with the celery, as its sturdiness forms a solid base for the lighter ingredients like apples and raisins. When tossing the salad, do so gently but thoroughly—this will allow the dressing to coat each piece without bruising the apples or celery too much, maintaining their appealing textures.

If you prefer a little more sweetness, consider adding chopped fresh fruits like grapes or pears into the mix. These not only boost the flavor complexity but also enhance the salad's visual appeal. Just make sure to balance any added sweetness with a bit more lemon juice in the dressing to keep it vibrant.

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

3 cups of diced celery
2 cups of diced apples (preferably Granny Smith for tartness)
1 cup of chopped walnuts (optional)
1/2 cup of raisins

Dressing Ingredients

1/2 cup of mayonnaise
1 tablespoon of lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon of honey (optional)

Instructions

Preparation Steps

Prepare the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced celery, apples, walnuts, and raisins. Toss gently to mix.

Make the Dressing

In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and honey if desired.

Combine and Serve

Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss until everything is well coated. Serve immediately or chill for an hour to let the flavors meld.

Enjoy Your Salad!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor kick, add a pinch of celery salt in the dressing. Feel free to experiment with different fruits like grapes or pears for variety.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Creamy Celery Apple Salad can be made ahead of time, making it a convenient option for meal prep. If you plan to prepare it in advance, I recommend storing the dressing separately and mixing it with the salad just before serving. This technique helps prevent the ingredients from becoming soggy and maintains that delightful crunch.

In the refrigerator, the assembled salad will keep well for about 1-2 days. However, be cautious with the raisins and walnuts if you prefer them crunchy; they might become softer over time. To combat this, you can add those ingredients just before serving to retain their texture.

Variations to Explore

Feel free to get creative with your salad! For a protein boost, add cooked chicken or turkey, which complement the salad beautifully. Pairing the crunchy elements with soft protein makes for a satisfying dish, perfect for a light lunch or picnic.

Additionally, you can switch up the nuts or omit them entirely if you have nut allergies. Sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds can provide a similar crunch and flavor without the allergens. Experimenting with different dressings—like adding Greek yogurt for a tangy twist—can also enhance the overall taste profile.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. Just wait to add the dressing until just before serving to keep it fresh.

→ Can I use different nuts?

Absolutely! Almonds or pecans would also work beautifully in this salad.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients in this recipe are gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.

→ How can I make this salad vegan?

You can substitute the mayonnaise with a vegan mayo or a dressing made with avocado for a creamy texture.