Classic Celery and Walnut Salad
Highlighted under: Nutritious & Fresh Meals
I absolutely adore this Classic Celery and Walnut Salad! It marries the crisp crunch of celery with the rich, earthy flavor of walnuts. Whenever I prepare this dish, I’m transported back to family gatherings where this salad was a staple. The light dressing really brings everything together and keeps each bite fresh and invigorating. It’s easy to make and perfect as a side dish or a light meal, making it a versatile addition to any table. Trust me, once you try this, it’s bound to become a favorite in your home too!
As I was experimenting in the kitchen one afternoon, I remembered how much my grandmother loved incorporating nuts into her salads. I decided to pair crisp celery with toasted walnuts, and the combination was simply delightful. The addition of mustard and vinegar in the dressing elevates the flavors and adds a surprising tang that lingers pleasantly.
This salad is not only flavorful but incredibly refreshing. I often prepare it ahead of time; just toss in the walnuts right before serving to keep their crunch. It’s the perfect dish for a picnic or a light lunch, and it never fails to impress!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Crisp, refreshing textures from fresh celery
- Rich, nutty flavors that complement every bite
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for any occasion
Unlocking Flavor with Fresh Ingredients
The quality of ingredients in the Classic Celery and Walnut Salad is crucial to achieving the best flavor. Fresh celery not only provides a satisfying crunch but also adds a subtle sweetness that balances beautifully with the earthiness of toasted walnuts. When selecting celery, look for firm stalks with vibrant green color, as they indicate freshness. Wilted or limp stalks will detract from the salad's crispness, so it’s best to choose the freshest bunch available.
Walnuts bring a rich, nutty flavor that elevates this salad and provides healthy fats. Toasting them is essential; it enhances their natural oils, resulting in a deeper flavor profile. If you prefer a slightly different taste, consider swapping walnuts for pecans or almonds, but remember that you might need to adjust the toasting time to prevent over-browning. Keep an eye on them; they should be golden and fragrant within 5 minutes, ensuring maximum flavor without burning.
Dressing Choices and Variations
In this recipe, the dressing plays a vital role in tying the salad together. The combination of mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar creates a creamy yet tangy sauce that perfectly complements the crunch of the celery and the crunchiness of the walnuts. For a lighter version, consider substituting Greek yogurt for mayonnaise. This swap not only reduces calories but also adds a delicious zing without sacrificing creaminess.
If you’re looking to jazz things up, experiment with your dressing by incorporating herbs or spices. For example, adding a pinch of garlic powder or a tsp of honey could enhance the flavors further. Additionally, fresh herbs like dill or chives can give your salad a unique twist, making it feel fragrant and freshly vibrant. Adjust the vinegar and mustard ratio based on personal preference to find your perfect balance.
Ingredients
Classic Celery and Walnut Salad Ingredients
- 4 cups celery, thinly sliced
- 1 cup walnuts, toasted and roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Prepare your ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth process!
Instructions
Prepare the Celery
Wash and thinly slice the celery stalks into bite-sized pieces.
Toast the Walnuts
In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the walnuts for about 5 minutes until fragrant, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the sliced celery, toasted walnuts, and diced red onion.
Make the Dressing
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and season with salt and pepper.
Toss and Serve
Pour the dressing over the salad mix and gently toss to coat. Serve immediately and garnish with fresh parsley.
For best results, enjoy the salad fresh but it can be stored in the refrigerator for a short time.
Pro Tips
- For an extra twist, you can add some diced apples or raisins for sweetness.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
This salad is best enjoyed fresh; however, you can prepare certain components in advance. Pre-slicing the celery and toasting the walnuts can save you time on busy days. Just keep the separate components stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Combine them with the dressing only when ready to serve to maintain the fresh texture of the celery.
If stored properly, the salad mix (without dressing) can last about 2 days. After that, the celery may start to lose its crispness, and the flavors may not be as vibrant. I recommend keeping the dressing on the side when meal prepping, allowing you to maintain that fresh, invigorating taste even days later.
Serving Suggestions
The Classic Celery and Walnut Salad makes a fantastic side dish, but consider serving it as a light main course as well. Pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a wholesome meal. If you’re looking for a vegetarian-friendly option, serve it alongside quinoa or your favorite grain bowl for added protein.
For a more decadent experience, you can also add crumbled blue cheese or feta to the salad, which will introduce an extra layer of flavor that complements the walnuts beautifully. Serve it over a bed of baby spinach or arugula for added greens, making it a colorful and appealing dish perfect for gatherings or everyday dining.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad by mixing all the ingredients except the walnuts and adding them right before serving to keep the crunch.
→ Can I use other nuts?
Absolutely! Pecans or almonds would also work wonderfully in this salad.
→ Is this salad suitable for a vegan diet?
You can substitute mayonnaise with a vegan mayo or yogurt alternative to make it vegan-friendly.
→ How long will this salad keep in the fridge?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but it can last in the fridge for about 1-2 days in an airtight container.
Classic Celery and Walnut Salad
I absolutely adore this Classic Celery and Walnut Salad! It marries the crisp crunch of celery with the rich, earthy flavor of walnuts. Whenever I prepare this dish, I’m transported back to family gatherings where this salad was a staple. The light dressing really brings everything together and keeps each bite fresh and invigorating. It’s easy to make and perfect as a side dish or a light meal, making it a versatile addition to any table. Trust me, once you try this, it’s bound to become a favorite in your home too!
Created by: Olivia
Recipe Type: Nutritious & Fresh Meals
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Classic Celery and Walnut Salad Ingredients
- 4 cups celery, thinly sliced
- 1 cup walnuts, toasted and roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How-To Steps
Wash and thinly slice the celery stalks into bite-sized pieces.
In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the walnuts for about 5 minutes until fragrant, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
In a large bowl, combine the sliced celery, toasted walnuts, and diced red onion.
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and season with salt and pepper.
Pour the dressing over the salad mix and gently toss to coat. Serve immediately and garnish with fresh parsley.
Extra Tips
- For an extra twist, you can add some diced apples or raisins for sweetness.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 10g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 4g