Celery Walnut Side Salad

Name: Celery Walnut Side Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 stalks of celery, chopped; 1 cup of walnuts, roughly chopped; 1/4 cup of raisins; 1/3 cup of Greek yogurt; 2 tablespoons of honey; 1 tablespoon of lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy Recipe Vault

I love making this Celery Walnut Side Salad whenever I want a refreshing and crunchy side dish that's both simple and satisfying. The combination of crisp celery and crunchy walnuts adds a delightful texture, while a tangy dressing brings everything together. It's an ideal accompaniment to any meal, and I often find myself snacking on it straight from the bowl. Plus, it's quick to whip up, making it perfect for busy weekdays or last-minute dinner parties.

Created by

Eden Clarke

Last updated on 2026-02-15T01:49:35.698Z

When I first stumbled upon this Celery Walnut Side Salad recipe, I was captivated by its simplicity and versatility. I decided to experiment by adding a hint of lemon juice, which brightened up the dish remarkably. It was a hit during family dinner and complements nearly any protein beautifully. I appreciate that it's easy to adjust the ingredients, allowing me to add more veggies or herbs based on what I have on hand.

One of my favorite tips is to toast the walnuts for a few minutes in the oven. This little step enhances their flavor significantly and elevates the salad to an even higher level of deliciousness. I often prepare a larger batch to enjoy throughout the week, as it stays fresh in the fridge for several days.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Crunchy and refreshing with every bite
Nutty flavor from toasted walnuts enhances the experience
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for any occasion

Understanding the Ingredients

Celery is the star ingredient of this salad, contributing not only a satisfying crunch but also a fresh, slightly peppery flavor. When selecting celery, look for firm stalks with vibrant green leaves. The fresher the celery, the more water content it retains, enhancing the salad's overall crispness. If you're looking to elevate the flavor profile, consider using celery hearts, which are the tender inner stalks and tend to be sweeter and milder compared to the outer stalks.

The walnuts in this recipe add a rich, nutty flavor that beautifully contrasts with the refreshing celery. For the best results, toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes. Stir frequently until they are golden and fragrant; this process amplifies their flavor and adds an extra layer of depth to the dish. If you're looking for a nut-free option, sunflower seeds can be a great substitute, offering a similar crunch.

Dressing Details

The dressing combines Greek yogurt, honey, and lemon juice, creating a creamy yet tangy coating that enhances the salad's flavors. Greek yogurt is not just a base; it's also packed with protein, making this salad a light yet satisfying option. For a dairy-free alternative, you could use coconut yogurt or a cashew-based yogurt, adjusting the sweetness and acidity to match your taste.

Adjusting the dressing’s consistency is straightforward. If you prefer a thinner dressing, add a touch of water or more lemon juice until you reach your desired consistency. Additionally, for those who enjoy a hint of spice, a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes can be whisked in, adding a delightful kick that complements the sweetness of the honey.

Serving Suggestions and Storage

While the salad is tasty immediately, letting it sit for about 10 minutes before serving allows the flavors to meld. However, if you plan to make it ahead of time, prepare the ingredients separately. Store the celery and walnuts in an airtight container in the fridge, and mix in the dressing just before serving to maintain crunchiness. This helps combat sogginess and keeps the salad fresh.

For a twist on presentation, consider layering the salad in mason jars for individual servings. This not only looks appealing but also allows for easy transport if you're bringing it to a potluck or picnic. This salad also pairs well with grilled meats or fish, making it a versatile addition to any meal plan.

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

4 stalks of celery, chopped
1 cup of walnuts, roughly chopped
1/4 cup of raisins
1/3 cup of Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons of honey
1 tablespoon of lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped celery, walnuts, and raisins. These ingredients provide the base for a crunchy and sweet salad.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt, honey, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preference.

Combine and Toss

Pour the dressing over the celery mixture and toss gently until everything is well-coated. Be careful not to mash the ingredients.

Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the salad to a serving dish or individual plates. This salad can be enjoyed immediately, but allowing it to sit for 10 minutes will enhance the flavors.

Pro Tips

To enhance the salad's flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs such as parsley or dill. This adds a fragrant note that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients.

Ingredient Substitutions

The use of raisins in this salad adds a natural sweetness that balances the crunchiness of the celery and the nuttiness of the walnuts. If you prefer other dried fruits, consider using chopped dried cranberries or apricots for a different flavor profile. These fruits will still provide texture while introducing a unique sweetness, enhancing the overall taste of the salad.

For a touch of acidity and flavor, diced green apples can be an exciting substitute for raisins. Not only will they add a crisp texture, but their tartness will complement the creamy dressing beautifully. This substitution works especially well in the fall when apples are at their best, giving the salad a seasonal twist.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning to serve this salad at a gathering, you can prepare it in advance for maximum convenience. The celery and walnut mixture can be combined earlier in the day, with the dressing kept separate. This way, you can toss everything together moments before serving, ensuring freshness and crunchy texture. It's a real time-saver for busy hosts.

If you're left with leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Just keep in mind that the salad may lose some of its crispness over time. For an enjoyable experience, give it a quick stir before serving, and feel free to add a splash of fresh lemon juice to rejuvenate the flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other nuts instead of walnuts?

Absolutely! Pecans or almonds would work well as tasty substitutions.

→ How long can I store this salad?

The salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

→ Is there a vegan option for the dressing?

Yes! You can substitute Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt and use maple syrup instead of honey.

→ Can I add more vegetables to this salad?

Definitely! Try adding diced bell peppers, cucumbers, or carrots for extra crunch and flavor.