Creamy Celery Salad With Apples

Name: Creamy Celery Salad With Apples
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 stalks of celery, diced; 2 medium apples, cored and diced; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1/4 cup plain yogurt; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped (optional); 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Light Living Recipes

I absolutely love making this Creamy Celery Salad with Apples! The combination of crunchy celery and sweet apples, all wrapped in a luscious dressing, fills my kitchen with a delightful aroma. It's the ideal side dish for any gathering, and I can whip it up in just a few minutes. Whether it's a picnic or a simple family dinner, this salad never fails to impress. I’m always excited to share it with my friends and family, and they can't get enough of its refreshing taste!

Created by

Harriet Collins

Last updated on 2026-01-24T08:34:11.720Z

When I first tried this Creamy Celery Salad with Apples, I knew I had to recreate it. The juicy crunch of the apples paired with the crisp bite of celery is simply irresistible. I experimented with different dressings and found that a mix of yogurt and mayonnaise gives it the perfect balance of creaminess and tang. This salad not only tastes great but also offers a refreshing break from heavier dishes!

Another tip I've discovered is to use tart apples like Granny Smith, which complement the celery beautifully. I've also added a sprinkle of nuts for an extra crunch. Every time I make it, I’m amazed at how such simple ingredients can create something so delightful!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Crunchy texture from fresh celery and apples
Creamy dressing that ties all the flavors together
Versatile side dish that complements any meal

      

The Perfect Balance of Flavors

This Creamy Celery Salad with Apples thrives on the delightful contrast between crunchy celery and sweet, juicy apples. When selecting apples, opt for firm varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp, which hold their shape and add a refreshing sweetness. The tartness of the lemon juice in the dressing brightens the overall flavor, preventing the salad from becoming too rich while enhancing the natural tastes of the celery and apples.

The creaminess of the mayonnaise and plain yogurt creates a luscious texture that envelops each bite, making each mouthful satisfying. Be mindful of the quantity you use; too much mayonnaise can overwhelm the delicate flavors. A good rule of thumb is to first use the amounts stated, then adjust according to your palate. If you prefer a lighter version, you can easily reduce the mayonnaise and increase the yogurt for a healthier twist.

Preparation Tips and Techniques

Chopping the celery into uniform dice ensures even distribution in the salad, which enhances the overall eating experience. When cutting the apples, doing so just before mixing with the dressing helps maintain their crispness and color. If you need to prepare ahead of time, sprinkle a little lemon juice over the apple pieces to prevent browning, but remember to add them to the salad right before serving for freshness.

For an extra depth of flavor, consider toasting the chopped walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, or until fragrant. This step brings out their natural oils, contributing a richer taste to the salad. Additionally, feel free to substitute walnuts with other nuts like pecans or even sunflower seeds if allergies are a concern.

Ingredients

Gather the fresh ingredients for your salad:

Ingredients

4 stalks of celery, diced
2 medium apples, cored and diced
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup plain yogurt
2 tablespoons lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup walnuts, chopped (optional)
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Mix thoroughly and prepare to enjoy your delicious salad!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your salad:

Prepare the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the diced celery and apples.

Make the Dressing

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

Combine Everything

Pour the dressing over the celery and apple mixture. Toss well to ensure everything is evenly coated.

Add the Nuts

If desired, fold in the chopped walnuts for added crunch.

Serve and Garnish

Transfer the salad to a serving bowl and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve immediately or chill for a bit before serving.

Enjoy your creamy, refreshing salad!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor twist, try mixing in some dried cranberries or a pinch of cinnamon.

Storage and Make-Ahead Options

This salad can be made a day in advance, making it an excellent choice for meal prep or gatherings. To ensure maximum freshness, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just keep in mind that the celery may lose some of its crunch over time, so it's ideal to consume it within two days. If you’d like to make a large batch, consider doubling the ingredients, but adjust the dressing proportionally to maintain the right flavor balance.

If you’re anticipating leftovers, you might want to leave the walnuts out until you're ready to serve. Adding them too early could result in soggy nuts, which detracts from the overall texture of the dish. By keeping them separate, you preserve their crunch and provide guests with the option to add their own.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This Creamy Celery Salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish, complementing the savory notes with its refreshing crunch. You can also serve it as a light lunch on a bed of mixed greens or inside a sandwich for added texture. Additionally, adding dried cranberries or raisins can offer a delightful burst of sweetness, making it even more appealing for picnics or casual gatherings.

For a Mediterranean twist, consider incorporating feta cheese and kalamata olives, which would add a salty contrast to the sweet apples. Experimenting with different herbs like dill or tarragon can also yield unique flavor profiles, so don't hesitate to get creative with what you have on hand. The versatility of this salad truly shines, allowing for endless possibilities!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad in advance?

Yes! It can be made a few hours ahead of time. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator.

→ What can I substitute for mayonnaise?

You can use Greek yogurt or a vinaigrette for a lighter alternative.

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients are gluten-free, making it a perfect option for those with dietary restrictions.

→ Can I add other fruits?

Absolutely! Grapes or pears would also be delicious additions.