This celery apple salad bursts with crisp, juicy textures and vibrant flavors. It’s a simple, healthy dish that’s perfect for family meals or quick lunches. With its satisfying crunch and sweetness, this salad is a delightful choice for any occasion.
Table of Contents

Ingredients for Celery Apple Salad
Fresh Produce
To create this vibrant salad, you’ll need:
- 6 ribs of celery, thinly sliced diagonally (include leaves for added flavor)
- 2 medium Honeycrisp apples, cut into matchsticks
Nuts and Cheese
Add some texture with:
- 1 cup walnuts, halves or pieces
- ½ cup (~4 ounces) parmesan cheese, thinly sliced
- 6 Medjool dates, pitted and thinly sliced (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
Dressing Components
The dressing will enhance the flavors with these simple ingredients:
- ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup (or honey)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions for Making Celery Apple Salad
Toasting the Walnuts
Start by toasting the walnuts. Place them in a dry skillet over medium-low heat. Toss them frequently for 4-5 minutes until they are golden and nutty. Remove from heat and let them cool before chopping if you prefer smaller pieces.
Preparing the Celery and Apples
Next, prepare a medium bowl of water mixed with a packet of true lime or a squeeze of lemon juice. This will keep your apples from browning. Cut the apples into matchsticks and add them to the water. Meanwhile, thinly slice the celery on the diagonal.
Making the Dressing
In a mason jar, combine the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, kosher salt, and black pepper. Shake well until all the ingredients are mixed together and ready to elevate your salad.
Combining Ingredients
After draining the apples, pat them dry if you wish. In a large bowl, combine the celery, apples, toasted walnuts, Medjool dates, and parmesan cheese. Toss everything together with the dressing until evenly coated. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Variations and Tips
Alternative Nuts and Cheeses
If you want to switch things up, try using pecans instead of walnuts. For a different cheese flavor, consider using pecorino or sharp white cheddar to enhance the taste.
Preventing Apples from Browning
To keep your apples looking fresh, remember to soak them in lemon water as described earlier. This simple trick ensures they stay vibrant for serving.
Storage Suggestions
This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in the refrigerator for a short time. Just remember that the texture may change slightly as it sits.
FAQs
What ingredients do I need for a celery apple salad?
You need celery, Honeycrisp apples, walnuts, parmesan cheese, and optional Medjool dates, along with olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper for the dressing.
How do I prepare celery and apples for the salad?
Cut the celery into thin diagonal slices and the apples into matchsticks. Soak the apple matchsticks in a lemon-water mixture to prevent browning.
What are some variations I can try with celery apple salad?
You can substitute walnuts with pecans and try different cheeses like pecorino or sharp white cheddar for unique flavors.
How long can I store celery apple salad in the fridge?
The salad is best fresh, but it can be stored in the fridge for a short time; however, the texture may change.
Is celery apple salad healthy and low in calories?
Yes, celery apple salad is a healthy option, providing fiber and nutrients while being relatively low in calories, making it perfect for a light meal or snack.
Related Recipes to try
Conclusion
This celery apple salad is not only refreshing but also incredibly simple to prepare. It’s a nutritious option that the whole family will enjoy. For more inspiration, check out creative ideas on Pinterest, where you’ll find countless ways to elevate your salads and meals.

Celery Apple Salad: A Refreshingly Crunchy Delight
Equipment
- skillet
- bowl
- mason jar
Ingredients
- 1 cup walnuts halves or pieces
- 6 ribs celery thinly sliced diagonally
- 2 medium Honeycrisp apples cut into matchsticks
- 6 Medjool dates pitted and thinly sliced (optional)
- ½ cup parmesan cheese thinly sliced
Dressing
- ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey as a substitute
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium-low heat for 4-5 minutes until nutty and toasted.
- Prepare a bowl of water with lemon juice, cut apples into matchsticks, and add to the water.
- Combine dressing ingredients in a mason jar and shake well.
- Drain apples, pat dry, and combine with celery, walnuts, dates, and parmesan, then toss with dressing.




