Classic Celery and Walnut Salad

Name: Classic Celery and Walnut Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups celery, thinly sliced; 1 cup walnuts, chopped; 1/4 cup golden raisins; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper, to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Meal Recipes

I absolutely adore this Classic Celery and Walnut Salad! The crunchiness of the celery combined with the rich, earthy flavors of walnuts creates a delightful experience in every bite. I usually whip it up as a refreshing side dish or a light lunch option. The dressing, made with a touch of mustard and lemon juice, adds brightness while tying all the ingredients together. It’s simple yet so satisfying and perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a picnic or a dinner gathering.

Created by

Luca

Last updated on 2026-01-30T01:21:28.115Z

When I first discovered this salad, I was amazed by how such a simple combination of ingredients could yield such incredible flavors. I often experiment with different nuts, but walnuts remain my favorite for their distinct flavor profile. The crunch of the celery paired with the creamy texture of the dressing just works so beautifully together!

One key tip I've learned is to slice the celery thinly and toss it with the dressing just before serving. This way, the celery retains its crispiness without becoming soggy. Trust me, it makes all the difference in the world!

Why You'll Love This Salad
A perfect crunch from crisp celery alongside nutty walnuts
Bright and tangy dressing that elevates every bite
Quick and easy to prepare, great for any occasion

The Role of Ingredients

The star of this salad is undoubtedly the celery. Its crisp texture provides a refreshing bite that contrasts beautifully with the rich walnuts. Choose fresh, vibrant celery stalks with tight, firm leaves, as wilted or discolored celery can detract from the overall flavor and crunch. The walnuts should be toasted lightly before adding to the salad; this enhances their nuttiness and adds depth to the dish. Toast them over medium heat until they are golden and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.

Golden raisins contribute a touch of sweetness that balances the savory elements of this salad. If you don’t have golden raisins on hand, try using chopped dried apricots or cranberries for a similar effect. They’ll add a chewy texture and a hint of tartness that pairs well with the other ingredients. Additionally, feel free to experiment with adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing for an unexpected kick!

Perfecting the Dressing

The dressing for this salad is where the magic happens, tying together all the ingredients with its creamy and tangy flavor. When mixing the dressing, use a whisk to ensure it becomes fully emulsified and smooth. If the dressing feels too thick, you can thin it out with a teaspoon of water or an extra splash of lemon juice. An important tip is to taste and adjust the seasoning; don’t skip the salt and pepper, as they elevate the flavors significantly.

To customize the dressing, you can substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise for a lighter twist. This change not only reduces calories but also adds a notable tang that complements the salad perfectly. If you prefer a different flavor profile, consider incorporating fresh herbs like dill or parsley into the dressing for an herbaceous note that brightens the dish even further.

Serving and Storage Tips

This Classic Celery and Walnut Salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. If preparing in advance, keep the dressing separate until just before serving to maintain the crunch of the celery. You can also amp up the flavor profile by letting the salad sit for about 30 minutes after tossing; this allows the ingredients to marinate and develop a richer overall taste.

For serving suggestions, I love pairing this salad with roasted chicken or grilled fish for a well-rounded meal. It also works beautifully as a picnic dish, offering a refreshing counterpoint to heavier foods. If you want to make it a heartier option, consider adding cooked quinoa or chickpeas. These add protein and make the salad a filling vegetarian dish, perfect for lunch or a light dinner.

Ingredients

To prepare this salad, gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients

4 cups celery, thinly sliced
1 cup walnuts, chopped
1/4 cup golden raisins
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper, to taste

Mix these ingredients well to create a delightful salad!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your salad:

Prepare the dressing

In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.

Combine ingredients

In a large salad bowl, add the sliced celery, chopped walnuts, and golden raisins. Pour the dressing over the salad.

Toss and serve

Gently toss all the ingredients together until everything is well-coated with the dressing. Serve immediately.

Enjoy your fresh and delicious salad!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider toasting the walnuts lightly before adding them to the salad. This enhances their nutty aroma and gives a richer taste to the dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking for alternatives to make this dish even healthier, consider swapping out the mayonnaise for avocado or a creamy tahini dressing. These replacements will provide a different flavor and texture while still maintaining the creamy element that holds the salad together. Additionally, if you're nut-free, sunflower seeds can stand in for walnuts, providing a similar crunch without allergens.

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, adding diced jalapeños or a splash of sriracha can give this salad a spicy kick. Alternatively, fresh herbs can add another layer of flavor; try a handful of chopped basil or mint for a unique twist.

Make-Ahead and Storage

To keep the salad fresh, prepare the celery and walnuts in advance, but wait to combine them with the dressing until you're ready to serve. Store the ingredients separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Celery can last up to a week, but will lose its crunch if stored dressed, so consider this timing when planning your meal prep.

For leftovers, the salad can be challenging to keep fresh after it’s been dressed due to the moisture from the mayonnaise. If you do have leftovers, store them in an airtight container and consume within 2 days. The flavors meld nicely overnight, but be prepared that the celery's texture will soften.

Presentation Ideas

When serving this salad, presentation can elevate your dish tremendously. Consider using a large, shallow bowl to showcase the vibrant colors of the ingredients. Garnishing with a sprinkle of toasted walnuts or a few fresh herbs on top can make it visually appealing. Additionally, providing small bowls of extra dressing on the side allows guests to customize their salad to their liking.

For a more elegant serving option, try layering the ingredients in individual cups or jars. This not only looks chic but also makes for easy portion control, perfect for gatherings or potlucks. Each layer will maintain its texture, ensuring that every bite remains just as delightful as the last.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other nuts instead of walnuts?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute walnuts with pecans or almonds for a different flavor.

→ How long can I store this salad?

It's best served fresh, but you can store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just keep in mind that the celery may lose its crunch.

→ Can I make this salad vegan?

Yes, you can use vegan mayonnaise as a substitute for regular mayonnaise to make it vegan-friendly.

→ What can I serve this salad with?

This salad is great as a side dish for grilled chicken or fish, or even as a light lunch on its own.