Creamy Celery Apple Salad

Name: Creamy Celery Apple Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups chopped celery; 2 cups diced apples (preferably Granny Smith); 1/2 cup raisins; 1/4 cup chopped walnuts; 1/4 cup minced red onion; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar; 1 tablespoon honey; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Fresh & Nourishing

When I first whipped up this Creamy Celery Apple Salad, I was amazed at how the crunch of the celery paired perfectly with the sweet juiciness of the apples. It's a delightful balance of flavors and textures that instantly revitalizes my lunch table. The creamy dressing complements the crisp veggies without overpowering them, making each bite uniquely satisfying. Perfect for potlucks or a light side at dinner, this salad has earned a special spot in my recipe rotation, and I think it will in yours too!

Created by

Lillian Hayes

Last updated on 2026-02-01T21:02:35.635Z

As I explored new salad combinations, I landed on this delightful Creamy Celery Apple Salad. I was eager to highlight the freshness of the apples and the crispness of celery, balancing them with a light and creamy dressing. Each ingredient shines through, and the flavor profile is refreshing yet satisfying.

One key tip I've learned is to use tart apples, like Granny Smith, as their acidity cuts through the creaminess and adds a lovely contrast. Believe me, this salad is an excellent way to get your daily crunch while enjoying a vibrant, delicious dish!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Crunchy texture from fresh celery mixed with sweet apples
Creamy and tangy dressing that brings everything together
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy days

Understanding the Ingredients

Each component of this Creamy Celery Apple Salad plays a vital role in creating its distinct flavor profile. The crunchy celery provides not only a satisfying texture but also a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the apples. I recommend using Granny Smith apples for their tartness, as they balance the creamy dressing beautifully. You could also try honeycrisp apples for a sweeter taste, but keep in mind that the overall flavor will shift accordingly.

The raisins add a touch of chewiness and sweetness, complementing the crispness of the celery and the tartness of the apples. If you prefer a different twist, consider substituting with dried cranberries or chopped dates, which would introduce varied flavors while maintaining a delightful texture. The walnuts add a nutty crunch, but if you have nut allergies or prefer a different texture, sunflower seeds are an excellent substitution.

Perfecting the Dressing

The dressing for this salad is simple yet effective, bringing harmony to the array of ingredients. Using mayonnaise gives a rich creaminess; however, Greek yogurt can be a healthier alternative while adding a tangy flavor that works well with the apples. To customize your dressing further, consider adding a splash of lemon juice for freshness or an extra teaspoon of honey if you prefer a sweeter dressing.

It’s crucial to whisk the dressing until smooth to ensure all flavors are well integrated; this typically takes about a minute. If you notice it’s too thick after combining, add a teaspoon of water or additional vinegar to reach your desired consistency. The goal is for the dressing to coat each ingredient beautifully without overwhelming them, allowing each bite to showcase the salad’s crunch and flavor.

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

2 cups chopped celery
2 cups diced apples (preferably Granny Smith)
1/2 cup raisins
1/4 cup chopped walnuts
1/4 cup minced red onion

Dressing Ingredients

1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon honey
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix everything in a large bowl to combine the flavors.

Instructions

Prepare the Salad

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

Make the Dressing

In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Combine Everything

Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and mix well to ensure everything is coated.

Serve

Chill for about 10 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld beautifully.

This salad can be stored in the refrigerator for a couple of days, but it's best enjoyed fresh.

Pro Tips

Use a mix of green and red apples for an added color contrast and enhanced flavor.

Make-Ahead Tips

This Creamy Celery Apple Salad is a fantastic dish to prepare in advance. You can chop the celery and apples and mix the dry ingredients the day before to save time. Just be cautious with the apples—they can brown quickly. To prevent this, consider tossing them in a bit of lemon juice after dicing. Keep the dressing separate until you're ready to serve; this way, the salad remains crisp and fresh.

If you need to store leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This salad is best enjoyed within 24 hours, but the flavors will continue to develop as it sits. Just give it a quick toss before serving to refresh the texture.

Serving Suggestions

This salad shines as a side dish but can transition into the spotlight as a light lunch on its own, especially when paired with crusty bread or crisp lettuce wraps. For a delightful meal, serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish; the salad’s freshness complements the richness of these proteins wonderfully.

You might also consider adding a protein element to this salad to make it a complete meal. Adding cooked and shredded chicken or even chickpeas can enhance the nutritional value and transform the salad into a hearty option. As with most salads, feel free to adjust the toppings and ingredients based on your preferences or what’s available in your pantry.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a few hours in advance. Just hold off on adding the dressing until you're ready to serve for fresher flavors.

→ What can I substitute for mayonnaise?

You can use Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo for a lighter or dairy-free option.

→ How can I make this salad healthier?

Replace the honey with a sugar substitute and reduce the quantity of walnuts for fewer calories.

→ Can I add other ingredients?

Absolutely! Feel free to add ingredients like shredded carrots, bell peppers, or even some cooked chicken for added protein.