Creamy Celery Salad With Apples

Name: Creamy Celery Salad With Apples
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups celery, thinly sliced; 2 cups apples, diced; 1 cup mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped (optional); Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy Comfort Classics

I love making this Creamy Celery Salad With Apples because it’s the perfect blend of crunchy and creamy, making for a refreshing side dish or snack. The crispness of the celery combined with the sweetness of the apples and the rich dressing creates a delightful flavor profile that everyone enjoys. It’s surprisingly easy to whip up and can be made ahead of time, which is great for busy days or when I'm entertaining guests. Plus, the vibrant colors make it a beautiful addition to any meal.

Created by

Lila Morgan

Last updated on 2026-01-24T09:16:09.593Z

When I first tried this Creamy Celery Salad With Apples at a family gathering, I was instantly drawn to its fresh flavors and the unexpected crunch from the celery. I decided to try making it at home, tweaking the recipe to my taste, and it quickly became a staple in my kitchen. The key is to let the salad chill for at least 30 minutes before serving, which helps meld the flavors together beautifully.

The contrast between the tartness of the apples and the creaminess of the dressing is what really makes this dish shine. I sometimes add a sprinkle of walnuts for extra texture, but the basic recipe is just as stellar. It’s perfect for picnics or as a side dish at dinner!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Crisp celery brings a refreshing crunch
Sweet apples add a delightful contrast
Rich, creamy dressing ties it all together

The Role of Fresh Ingredients

The success of this Creamy Celery Salad With Apples hinges on using the freshest ingredients possible. When selecting celery, look for stalks that are firm and crisp, with vibrant green leaves. This not only ensures the best crunch but also maximizes the salad's freshness. For the apples, choose a sweet variety, such as Fuji or Honeycrisp, which will balance beautifully with the creamy dressing. Remember, the quality of your ingredients directly impacts the overall flavor and texture of the dish.

Incorporating freshly chopped walnuts adds a delightful texture that enhances the salad. If you're short on time or prefer a nut-free option, pumpkin seeds provide a similar crunch. For those who want to make it gluten-free or have nut allergies, simply omit the nuts altogether. This adaptability not only caters to dietary preferences but also allows you to customize the salad to suit your taste.

Perfecting the Dressing

The dressing for this salad is simple yet essential for achieving a creamy consistency that coats the ingredients without overwhelming them. Using good quality mayonnaise can make a significant difference in flavor—opt for a full-fat variety for a richer taste. The acidity from the lemon juice balances out the richness and enhances the salad's freshness. If you prefer a tangier dressing, feel free to adjust the lemon juice according to your preference, but start with the recommended amount to avoid overpowering the salad.

If you're looking to lighten up the dish, you can substitute half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. This swap not only reduces calories but also adds a nice tanginess. Experiment with different herbs like dill or parsley in the dressing for an added layer of flavor that complements the apples and celery beautifully.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients for this refreshing salad:

Ingredients

4 cups celery, thinly sliced
2 cups apples, diced
1 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1/2 cup walnuts, chopped (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix these ingredients for a delicious salad!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your salad:

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together the celery, apples, and walnuts if using.

Prepare the Dressing

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

Dress the Salad

Pour the dressing over the celery and apple mixture, and gently toss to combine.

Chill and Serve

Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Enjoy your creamy, crunchy salad!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider substituting Greek yogurt for mayonnaise or incorporating other fruits like grapes or raisins.

Make-Ahead Tips

One of the great things about this salad is that it can be made ahead of time, making it a perfect choice for meal prep or entertaining. Once mixed, the salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. However, for best flavor and texture, it’s ideal to combine the dressing just before serving. This prevents the apples from browning and the celery from losing its crispness.

If you do prepare it in advance, consider an additional squeeze of lemon juice right before serving to refresh the flavor. This can also help maintain the apples’ beautiful color, ensuring your salad remains visually appealing until the last bite.

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Celery Salad With Apples can be served as a side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish, making it a versatile option for casual barbeques or elegant dinners. For a heartier meal, try adding some cooked quinoa or shredded rotisserie chicken to the salad. This transforms it into a delightful main dish packed with protein and flavor.

For an appealing presentation, serve the salad in a large, shallow bowl or individual dishes. Garnishing with extra chopped walnuts or a sprinkle of fresh herbs can elevate the dish visually. Additionally, consider serving it on a bed of mixed greens to create a vibrant and textured plate that makes a great impression on guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad in advance?

Yes, it can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge. Just stir it before serving.

→ What types of apples are best for this salad?

I recommend using tart apples like Granny Smith or sweet varieties like Fuji for a nice balance.

→ Can I use a substitute for mayonnaise?

Absolutely! Greek yogurt or a vegan mayonnaise are great alternatives.

→ How can I add more protein to this salad?

You can add cooked chicken or chickpeas for a protein boost.