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 of celery, diced; 2 apples, cored and chopped; 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped; 1/4 cup dried cranberries; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup plain yogurt; 1 tablespoon honey; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Light Living Recipes

I love making this Celery and Apple Crunch Salad because it’s a refreshing delight that pairs the crispy texture of celery with the sweetness of apples. Each bite is a balance of crunch and flavor, making it the perfect side dish for any meal. The tangy dressing ties everything together and elevates this simple salad into something truly special. Whether you’re serving it at a barbecue or as a light lunch, it’s always a hit and disappears quickly from the table.

Created by

Harriet Collins

Last updated on 2026-02-16T01:25:35.818Z

When I first crafted this Celery and Apple Crunch Salad, I wanted a dish that would invigorate my palate while being easy to prepare. The combination of crisp celery and sweet, juicy apples creates a delightful contrast that makes my taste buds sing with joy. I found that adding a hint of lemon juice really brightens the flavors, making it not just a salad, but an experience.

Over time, I tried various dressings, and I discovered that a simple mix of yogurt and honey works wonders in bringing everything together without overpowering the freshness of the ingredients. People often request this at gatherings, and I love how it adds a pop of color to the table!

        Why You'll Love This Salad
        Crisp textures and vibrant flavors that refresh your palate
Quick to make, perfect for busy weekdays or last-minute gatherings
Nutritious, with a perfect blend of sweet and savory

      

Balancing Flavors and Textures

The combination of crunchy celery and crisp apples creates an enjoyable textural contrast in this salad. Choose firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp to maintain their shape and provide a tart sweetness that complements the savory celery. To enhance the salad’s crunch, chop the walnuts coarsely, allowing for more texture in each bite. This mix of fresh ingredients not only refreshes the palate but also makes the dish visually appealing with its varied colors and shapes.

Incorporating dried cranberries not only adds a sweet-tart flavor but also provides a delightful chewiness that balances the crispness of the celery and apples. For a unique twist, feel free to mix in other dried fruits like raisins or apricots, but remember that this may alter the overall sweetness. Look for unsweetened varieties to keep the flavors harmonious while considering how the sweetness of the fruits plays against the dressing.

Crafting the Perfect Dressing

The dressing for this salad is a simple mix of yogurt, honey, and lemon juice. Using plain yogurt creates a creamy base, and I recommend using Greek yogurt for an extra thickness and protein boost. If you're looking for a dairy-free alternative, coconut or almond yogurt works well, but ensure it's unsweetened to maintain balance with the honey. Whisk the dressing until it’s smooth and, if you prefer a thinner consistency, add a teaspoon of water at a time until you achieve your desired texture.

Adding a pinch of salt and pepper to the dressing is crucial; it enhances the overall flavor of the salad and helps to bring out the natural sweetness of the fruits. Taste the dressing before mixing it in to adjust the seasoning as needed, ensuring that it aligns with your preferences. This simple step can elevate the dish significantly, especially when using fresh, high-quality lemon juice for that zesty kick. You want the dressing to lightly coat the ingredients without overwhelming them.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a delightful crunch!

Salad Ingredients

4 stalks of celery, diced
2 apples, cored and chopped
1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
1/4 cup dried cranberries
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Dressing Ingredients

1/4 cup plain yogurt
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix all these ingredients together for a refreshing treat!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your salad.

Prepare the Vegetables and Fruit

In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced celery and chopped apples. Add walnuts and dried cranberries for extra crunch and sweetness.

Make the Dressing

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

Combine Everything

Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.

Garnish and Serve

Top with fresh parsley for a garnish and serve immediately. Enjoy your refreshing salad!

Now you can enjoy your delicious salad!

Pro Tips

For an extra twist, try adding a sprinkle of feta cheese or a handful of mixed greens for more texture and flavor.

Make-Ahead Tips

One of the great advantages of the Celery and Apple Crunch Salad is that it can be prepped ahead of time. You can prepare the salad ingredients a few hours in advance and store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Just be cautious with the apples, as they may brown. To prevent this, toss the chopped apples in a little lemon juice before combining with the celery and walnuts.

The dressing can also be made up to two days in advance. Store it separately in the fridge to keep the salad fresh. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine the dressed ingredients and toss lightly. This ensures that the salad remains crunchy and appetizing, making it an excellent option for gatherings or busy weeknights.

Serving Suggestions

For an eye-catching presentation, consider serving the salad in a large, shallow bowl to showcase its vibrant colors. If you're looking to incorporate it into a larger meal, this salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish, adding a refreshing contrast to hearty main dishes. You can also serve it alongside sandwiches to provide a fresh side that brightens up a lunch spread.

Don’t hesitate to use this salad as a base for other ingredients! Try adding grilled chicken or chickpeas for protein, or toss in some feta cheese for a tangy twist. This versatility makes it easy to adjust based on what you have on hand, ensuring you can always enjoy a crunchy delight that suits your tastes.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time, but it's best to add the dressing just before serving to keep the salad fresh.

→ What type of apples work best for this salad?

Crisp apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work wonderfully due to their refreshing taste and crunch.

→ Can I substitute any ingredients?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute walnuts with pecans or sunflower seeds, and use any other dried fruit you prefer.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients used are gluten-free, making it a great option for gluten-sensitive individuals.