Celery And Walnut Garden Salad

Name: Celery And Walnut Garden Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 large celery stalks, chopped; 1 cup walnuts, coarsely chopped and toasted; 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup red onion, finely sliced; 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar; 1 tablespoon honey; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Fresh Health Kitchen

I love making this Celery and Walnut Garden Salad when I want something fresh and crunchy. The combination of crisp celery and roasted walnuts provides a delightful texture, while the vibrant herbs and light dressing make the flavors pop. It’s a quick and healthy dish that packs a punch, perfect for a light lunch or as a side at dinner. Each bite is not only refreshing but also satisfying, thanks to the healthy fats from the walnuts. Let's dive into how to create this delicious salad together!

Created by

Talia Preston

Last updated on 2026-02-16T09:57:37.941Z

When I first tried a celery and walnut salad at a friend's gathering, I was surprised by how something so simple could be so full of flavor. The crunch of the celery paired with the earthiness of the walnuts ignited my taste buds and inspired me to make my own version. I found that letting the salad sit for a few minutes before serving really allows the flavors to meld and develop.

One of my favorite tips is to toast the walnuts lightly before adding them to the salad. This enhances their nuttiness and adds an extra layer of flavor that complements the celery beautifully. It’s a salad that just screams freshness, and I can’t wait for you to try it!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Crunchy texture from fresh celery and walnuts
Zesty dressing that brightens up every bite
Perfectly healthy and satisfying for any meal

Choosing the Right Celery

When selecting celery for your salad, look for crisp, bright green stalks that are firm to the touch. Avoid any that are wilted or have dark spots, as these indicate freshness issues. For the best flavor and texture, choose organic celery if possible, as it tends to be crunchier and less bitter. Washing the celery thoroughly before chopping is crucial, as dirt can cling to the stalks. Cut each stalk into bite-sized pieces, ensuring uniformity for an appealing presentation.

The way you chop the celery affects its texture and overall impact in the salad. For a satisfying crunch, aim for an even chop. If you're new to chopping celery, start by cutting each stalk into thirds and then slice those into smaller pieces. It's always helpful to keep the pieces consistent in size, as this ensures even distribution of flavors in every bite.

Perfecting the Dressing

The dressing ties this salad together, so it's important to balance the ingredients properly. The combination of olive oil and apple cider vinegar gives a fruity yet tangy base. Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor; its richness complements the crunch of the celery and nuttiness of the walnuts. If you prefer a more acidic flavor, you can adjust the vinegar ratio according to your taste, but start with the recommended amount to maintain the intended balance.

Don't forget to whisk the dressing well until it becomes emulsified; this not only helps all the flavors meld together, but it also gives a glossy appearance that coats the ingredients beautifully. If you want an additional layer of flavor, you can add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a slight kick.

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

4 large celery stalks, chopped
1 cup walnuts, coarsely chopped and toasted
1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup red onion, finely sliced
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

Dressing Ingredients

3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon honey
Salt and pepper to taste

Combine all ingredients in a large bowl for maximum flavor.

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Chop the celery, coarsely chop the toasted walnuts, and slice the red onion and cherry tomatoes. Place them in a large mixing bowl.

Mix the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Combine Everything

Pour the dressing over the chopped ingredients and toss well to ensure everything is coated evenly.

Serve

Let the salad sit for about 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Enjoy your fresh and crunchy salad!

Enjoy this salad as a refreshing side or a light lunch.

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding crumbled feta cheese or a sprinkle of sunflower seeds.

Storing Leftovers

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Keep in mind that the textures will change slightly as the celery absorbs some of the dressing. To help maintain crispness, consider storing the dressing separately and adding it just before serving.

If you find that the salad has wilted after storage, a quick toss can help revive it. In some cases, adding a bit of fresh celery or a squeeze of lemon juice can perk up the flavors, making the leftover salad more enjoyable.

Variations to Try

Feel free to get creative with this salad! Adding other vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers can introduce new colors and flavors while maintaining the salad's crunch factor. If you're looking to add more protein, consider tossing in some grilled chicken or chickpeas. These will also make it a heartier meal, perfect for lunch on-the-go.

For those who enjoy a touch of sweetness, you might experiment by adding a handful of dried cranberries or sliced apples. These ingredients complement the walnuts nicely, enhancing the salad's appeal with a fruity finish that contrasts beautifully with the savory elements.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, but it's best to keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to maintain the crunchiness of the celery.

→ What can I substitute for walnuts?

You can use pecans or almonds if you prefer those nuts, or omit them entirely for a nut-free option.

→ How long does this salad last in the fridge?

Generally, it's best eaten within a day or two, but the celery will start to lose its crunch over time.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize with bell peppers, cucumbers, or any vegetables you enjoy.