Celery And Walnut Garden Salad

Name: Celery And Walnut Garden Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 medium celery stalks, chopped; 1 cup walnuts, roughly chopped; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; Salt and pepper, to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy Comfort Classics

I love making this Celery and Walnut Garden Salad when I want something fresh and crisp to brighten up my day. The combination of crunchy celery, rich walnuts, and a light dressing makes this salad a delightful addition to any meal. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, and it’s packed with nutrients, making it a perfect choice for a healthy lunch or dinner. I often throw in whatever herbs I have on hand to add even more flavor, which keeps every batch exciting!

Created by

Lila Morgan

Last updated on 2026-02-16T11:57:37.191Z

When I first made this salad, I wasn’t sure how the flavors would blend, but the result was a refreshing and satisfying dish. The subtle crunch of the celery paired with the creaminess of the walnuts creates a delightful texture. I like to add a squeeze of lemon juice and a touch of olive oil, which really brightens it up. This salad has become a staple in my kitchen, especially during the warmer months!

This simple recipe allows for customization, and I encourage you to experiment. For instance, I’ve tried adding sliced apples for sweetness or some feta cheese for extra flavor. The versatility is what keeps me coming back to it again and again.

Why You Will Love This Salad
Crisp and refreshing texture from fresh celery
Nutty crunch from walnuts that adds depth
Versatile and easy to customize with your favorite ingredients

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

This Celery and Walnut Garden Salad shines brightest when fresh ingredients are used. It's essential to select celery that is crisp and has vibrant green leaves. This ensures a satisfying crunch when you bite into the salad. Wilted or discolored celery can result in a mushy texture, diminishing the freshness of your dish. I recommend looking for celery stalks that snap easily when bent, which is a good indicator of freshness.

Similarly, the quality of your walnuts plays a crucial role in the salad's overall flavor. Use raw or lightly toasted walnuts for a nutty richness that complements the celery's crispness. If you're short on time, opt for pre-chopped walnuts, but avoid using overly processed varieties as they may lack the desirable crunch and freshness of whole nuts.

Balancing the Dressing

The dressing in this salad is key to bringing all the flavors together. By whisking olive oil and lemon juice, you create a bright and zesty coating. For a smoother texture, consider emulsifying the dressing more vigorously to create a glossy finish. This can also help integrate the flavors better, ensuring each bite is well-seasoned. If you prefer a creamier dressing, adding a dollop of Greek yogurt can enhance the texture.

Adjusting the acidity is also important. If you find the dressing too tangy, a teaspoon of honey can soften the lemon juice's sharpness, providing a delightful contrast to the salad's earthy walnuts. Experimenting with the ratio of olive oil to lemon juice can help you find the perfect balance that suits your palate.

Ingredients

To make this vibrant salad, gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients

4 medium celery stalks, chopped
1 cup walnuts, roughly chopped
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
Salt and pepper, to taste

These ingredients come together to create a delightful, fresh garden salad!

Instructions

Here's how to prepare your Celery and Walnut Garden Salad:

Prepare the Ingredients

Chop the celery and fresh parsley, and roughly chop the walnuts. Set aside.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Combine Salad Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the chopped celery, walnuts, and parsley. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.

Serve

Serve immediately, or chill in the fridge for about 10 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Enjoy your refreshing salad!

Pro Tips

You can add other ingredients like apples or feta cheese to personalize your salad. For a crunchier texture, consider adding sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds.

Customization Ideas

This salad is highly adaptable, which makes it even more enjoyable. You can add shredded carrots or finely diced bell peppers for extra color and nutrients. For added protein, consider incorporating chickpeas or diced chicken, making it a heartier meal. If you love cheese, crumbled feta or goat cheese would offer a creamy contrast to the crunchiness of the salad.

Herbs are another terrific way to customize your Celery and Walnut Garden Salad. Fresh dill or chives can add a refreshing twist, while a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can introduce a bit of heat. I love to experiment with whatever fresh herbs I have on hand, discovering new flavor profiles with each version.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you're preparing this salad ahead of time, it’s best to store the ingredients separately. The dressing can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week, which makes meal prep a breeze. Keep the chopped celery and walnuts in airtight containers to maintain their crispness until you're ready to toss them together just before serving.

When stored properly, the prepared salad can last in the fridge for about two days. However, it’s worth noting that the walnuts may lose some crunch over time. If you prefer to keep the salad fresh, consider serving the walnuts on the side or adding them just before serving. This way, they’ll retain their delightful texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad in advance?

It's best to serve this salad fresh, but you can prepare the ingredients and dressing separately a few hours in advance.

→ What can I use instead of walnuts?

You can substitute walnuts with pecans, almonds, or even sunflower seeds for a nut-free option.

→ How long will leftovers last?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days, though the celery may become a bit limp.

→ What can I serve this salad with?

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, steak, or as a side with sandwiches.