Creamy Celery Salad With Apples

Name: Creamy Celery Salad With Apples
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups celery, chopped; 1 cup apples, diced (use a mix of sweet and tart); 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped; 1/4 cup raisins; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Wholesome Eating Corner

I love making Creamy Celery Salad with Apples because it strikes the perfect balance between crunchy and creamy. The combination of crisp celery and sweet, tart apples brightens up any meal. This salad is super easy to whip up, making it ideal for busy days or when I want something light yet satisfying. Plus, it’s loaded with freshness! A handful of simple ingredients tossed together creates a delicious dish that pairs beautifully with main courses or can stand alone as a refreshing snack.

Created by

Riley Dawson

Last updated on 2026-01-24T09:58:13.725Z

Making this Creamy Celery Salad was a delightful adventure in my kitchen. I wanted to create a salad that was not only refreshing but also offered a unique twist on classic flavors. The crispness of the celery combined with the sweetness of ripe apples and a lavish dressing truly elevates the dish. I realized that adding a squeeze of lemon juice to the dressing kept the apples from browning, allowing the salad to look fresh longer.

Each bite of this salad is a burst of flavor and crunch that I adore. One of my favorite tips is to use both green and red apples for color and taste variation, making it visually appealing and fun to eat. Trust me, tossing in some walnuts will also add an extra layer of texture you won't want to skip!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Perfectly balanced flavors of sweet apples and crisp celery
A refreshing dish that brightens up any meal
Quick and easy to make with just a few ingredients

Choosing the Right Apples

When it comes to selecting apples for this Creamy Celery Salad, aim for a mix of sweet and tart varieties. Gala or Fuji apples bring a nice sweetness, while Granny Smith adds a delightful tartness. This contrast not only elevates the flavor but also adds a dynamic texture to the salad. A good rule of thumb is to use a 70/30 ratio of sweet to tart—this way, the apples balance the creaminess of the dressing and the crunch of the celery perfectly.

Additionally, consider the freshness of the apples. Firm apples will hold up better in the salad, preventing a mushy texture. Look for apples that have a smooth skin and feel heavy for their size. If you want to prep ahead, keep the diced apples from browning by tossing them in a bit of lemon juice before mixing them with other ingredients.

Preparing the Celery

Celery is the standout ingredient in this salad, and its freshness is paramount. Choose stalks that are crisp and have a vibrant green color. When chopping, aim for uniform pieces to ensure even mixing and a pleasant mouthfeel. The size can vary according to your preference, but pieces around 1/4 to 1/2 inch work well for a salad like this. If your celery has tough strings, you might want to peel them off before chopping to enhance the overall texture.

Make sure to wash the celery thoroughly, as dirt can easily settle between the stalks. After washing, pat it dry with a kitchen towel before chopping. This step prevents excess water from diluting the dressing and keeps the salad creamy and flavorful.

Storing and Serving

This Creamy Celery Salad can be enjoyed immediately, but it also stores beautifully in the refrigerator. For optimal freshness, cover it tightly in an airtight container, and it will last for up to three days. However, if you're planning to make it ahead, consider keeping the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve. This prevents the celery and apples from becoming too soggy, preserving their delightful crunch and vibrant colors.

For serving, try garnishing with additional walnuts or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or dill. This adds an extra touch of flair and freshness right before serving. Pair your salad with grilled chicken or fish for a balanced meal or serve it with crackers as a light afternoon snack.

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

2 cups celery, chopped
1 cup apples, diced (use a mix of sweet and tart)
1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
1/4 cup raisins
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

Combine all ingredients in a large bowl and mix until well coated.

Instructions

Prepare the ingredients

Start by washing and chopping the celery and apples. Make sure to remove any seeds from the apples before dicing.

Make the dressing

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

Combine everything

In a large bowl, combine the chopped celery, apples, walnuts, raisins, and the dressing. Toss gently to coat all ingredients.

Chill for 10 minutes to let flavors meld before serving.

Pro Tips

For an even creamier salad, consider adding a dollop of yogurt or sour cream to the dressing. This will enhance the flavor and make it richer.

The Role of Mayonnaise

Mayonnaise serves as the base of the dressing in this recipe, providing creaminess and richness that enhances the overall salad. You can use regular mayonnaise, or substitute it with Greek yogurt for a lighter option that still boasts a similar texture. If you're avoiding dairy, vegan mayonnaise is another great option that blends perfectly and keeps the salad creamy.

When mixing the mayonnaise with lemon juice, ensure that you combine them until smooth to avoid a clumpy dressing. The acidity from the lemon juice not only brightens the flavors but also contrasts nicely with the richness of the mayonnaise. Adjust the amounts based on your taste; if you prefer a zingier flavor, you can add more lemon juice without affecting the overall balance.

Adapting for Dietary Needs

This salad is quite flexible—I often swap out ingredients based on dietary needs or personal preference. For those who are nut-free, simply omit the walnuts or use seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds for that satisfying crunch without any allergens. Similarly, if you're avoiding raisins, try swapping them with dried cranberries or apricots for a different taste while keeping with the sweet elements of the salad.

For a low-carb version, consider substituting apples with diced cucumber or even jicama, which offers a similar crunch while reducing the sugar content significantly. Adjusting the ingredient ratios might take a bit of tweaking, but experimenting can lead to exciting variations that suit your specific dietary needs.

Creative Variations

Once you master the basic Creamy Celery Salad, feel free to get creative with additional ingredients. Adding diced bell peppers can introduce a sweet crunch, while fresh herbs like dill or parsley can elevate the flavor profile. If you’re looking for protein, shredded chicken can transform this side dish into a delightful main course, perfect for a light lunch.

Thinking outside the box? Try incorporating spices such as curry powder for a unique twist, or mix in some blue cheese crumbles for added flavor depth. Each variation offers a new experience, allowing you to keep this salad exciting and adaptable to your taste preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other nuts instead of walnuts?

Absolutely! Pecans or almonds work great as substitutes.

→ How long does this salad keep in the fridge?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

→ Is there a dairy-free option for the dressing?

Yes, you can use a vegan mayonnaise or avocado as a base for a dairy-free dressing.

→ Can I add other fruits to the salad?

Definitely! Grapes or diced pears can also add a nice sweetness and texture.