Creamy Celery Apple Salad

Name: Creamy Celery Apple Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups chopped celery; 2 medium apples, diced (Granny Smith or Fuji); 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped; 1/4 cup raisins; 1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt; 2 tablespoons mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Wholesome Treats

I absolutely love making this Creamy Celery Apple Salad, especially during warmer months when I crave something refreshing and light. The combination of crisp celery, sweet apples, and a creamy dressing is not only delicious but also brings vibrant colors to the table. Whether as a side dish or a light lunch, this salad is sure to impress. I enjoy adding a bit of crunch with walnuts for texture, making this dish even more delightful to eat. It's a perfect way to enjoy the freshness of seasonal produce in a simple yet satisfying dish.

Created by

Chantel Rivers

Last updated on 2026-02-01T17:54:37.231Z

When I first tried making a celery salad, I didn't expect it to be such a hit. The first bite was a revelation; the freshness of the celery paired perfectly with the tartness of the apples. I was inspired by a summer picnic where my friend served a similar dish, and I knew I had to put my twist on it. The salad's colors and crunch are incredibly appealing, making it a fantastic addition to any meal.

What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can add in extras like raisins or grapes for a sweeter variation or swap the walnuts for pecans for a different flavor profile. Dressing it with a simple mixture of yogurt and mayonnaise keeps it creamy without being too heavy, making it a wonderful choice for a light lunch or as a side dish at gatherings.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Crisp texture of fresh celery and apples
Creamy and light dressing that blends perfectly
Quick to prepare—perfect for busy days or gatherings

Ingredient Insights

Celery is the backbone of this salad, providing not just crunch but also a refreshing, slightly peppery flavor that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the apples. When choosing celery, look for firm stalks with vibrant green leaves. Avoid any that appear wilted or discolored, as these can affect both texture and taste. For the apples, Granny Smith offers a tart balance, while Fuji provides a sweeter note—both are excellent for this dish. You can also experiment with other varieties to suit your preference, such as Honeycrisp for a bit of sweetness or Braeburn for a spicier kick.

The dressing is a key element that brings everything together. Using plain Greek yogurt adds creaminess and a protein boost, while mayonnaise lends a rich depth of flavor. Don't hesitate to adjust the dressing to match your taste; for a tangier profile, add more lemon juice, or to make it richer, a dollop of sour cream works wonderfully. If you're watching calories, you can even substitute low-fat yogurt or mayo, but keep in mind this might alter the flavor slightly.

Preparation Tips

When prepping the salad, ensure the apples are cut just before serving to prevent browning. I recommend tossing them in a teaspoon of lemon juice right after dicing to keep their color vibrant. This small step can enhance the visual appeal and maintain a fresh taste. If you're making the salad ahead of time, consider mixing the celery and walnuts, and keep the apples and dressing separate until you're ready to serve. This helps retain texture and crunch.

To achieve a more rustic feel, you can hand-chop the walnuts to varying sizes, allowing for both coarse pieces for crunch and finer bits that blend into the dressing for a subtle nuttiness. This versatility in texture complements the varying crunch of the celery, making every bite a delightful experience. Also, be cautious when mixing; a gentle toss is best to avoid bruising the delicate apples.

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Celery Apple Salad is wonderfully versatile. It makes a great side dish for grilled meats or seafood, adding a refreshing lift to heavier plates. Alternatively, it can stand alone as a light lunch. For a more filling option, consider adding cooked chicken or chickpeas to amp up the protein. You might also swap the walnuts for sunflower seeds if you're looking for a nut-free alternative.

For a touch of color and extra flavor, consider garnishing with freshly chopped herbs, such as parsley or chives. They not only enhance the presentation but also add a layer of freshness that complements the salad’s overall taste. Additionally, this salad can be served on a bed of greens like arugula or spinach to create a delightful salad bowl that’s visually appealing and satisfying.

Ingredients:

For the Salad

4 cups chopped celery
2 medium apples, diced (Granny Smith or Fuji)
1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
1/4 cup raisins

For the Dressing

1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation Steps:

Instructions:

Prepare the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine chopped celery, diced apples, walnuts, and raisins. Toss them together gently to mix.

Make the Dressing

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

Combine Everything

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

Serve

Chill for about 10 minutes if desired, then serve immediately and enjoy your refreshing salad.

Enjoy your meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, try adding a pinch of celery salt to the dressing. It enhances the overall taste and complements the freshness of the celery beautifully.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This salad is ideal for meal prep since it can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator. If properly stored in an airtight container, it will stay fresh for about 2-3 days. However, keep in mind that the longer it sits, the softer the ingredients will become, especially the apples. To avoid this, prepare the dressing separately and combine it with the salad just before serving for optimal crunchiness.

If you plan to make this salad a day in advance for a gathering, consider omitting the walnuts until serving time. Adding them just before serving preserves their crunch and elevates the overall texture of the salad.

Flavor Variations

Experimenting with mix-ins can elevate the traditional flavor profile of this salad. For a touch of sweetness, consider adding diced pears or even a handful of grapes. If you enjoy a bit of heat, add finely chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper in the dressing for a delightful kick. This versatility allows you to tailor the dish to your taste preferences and seasonal availability.

Another delicious twist is to introduce spices into the dressing. A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can add warmth, perfect if you're serving this dish in the fall or winter months. Conversely, fresh herbs like dill or mint can provide a refreshing and aromatic lift during the warmer days of summer.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad in advance?

Yes, this salad can be made a few hours in advance. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness.

→ What type of apples work best?

Granny Smith or Fuji apples are great choices for their crispness and tartness, but feel free to use your favorite variety.

→ Can I substitute the walnuts?

Absolutely! You can use pecans, almonds, or even omit nuts if you have a nut allergy.

→ Is there a vegan alternative for the dressing?

Yes! You can replace the Greek yogurt and mayonnaise with a vegan yogurt option to make it plant-based.