Celery Walnut Side Salad

Name: Celery Walnut Side Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups chopped celery; 1 cup toasted walnuts, roughly chopped; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup raisins; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Fresh Wellness Recipes

I absolutely love making this Celery Walnut Side Salad because it's refreshing, crunchy, and boasts a delightful nutty flavor that elevates any meal. The combination of crisp celery, toasted walnuts, and a hint of lemon dressing makes it an easy and healthy addition to my lunch or dinner. The best part is that it comes together in just a few minutes, making it perfect for a quick side dish or a light snack. Trust me, once you try it, you'll be reaching for this recipe again and again!

Created by

Freya Cooper

Last updated on 2026-02-15T07:13:36.367Z

Creating this Celery Walnut Side Salad was a delightful experience that showcased the freshness of ingredients. I remember the first time I made it—my friends couldn’t stop complimenting the crunchy texture of the celery combined with the rich nuttiness of the walnuts. One of my favorite tips is to toast the walnuts before adding them; it really brings out their flavor and adds a lovely warmth to the dish.

Another reason I'm fond of this salad is how versatile it is; you can adjust the ingredients based on what you have. If you prefer a creamier dressing, a touch of Greek yogurt or sour cream works wonders. Each iteration brings a different twist, ensuring I never tire of it and can enjoy it throughout the week.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Crisp texture that refreshes the palate
Nutty flavor from toasted walnuts adds depth
Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for busy days

Choosing the Right Celery

When selecting celery for your salad, look for vibrant green stalks that are firm to the touch. Avoid any that appear wilted or have brown spots, as these are signs of aging. Fresh celery not only enhances the overall flavor of your dish but also provides that much-needed crunch. If you're in a pinch, you can substitute with radishes for an equally crisp texture, though the flavor profile will differ slightly.

For the best results, try to chop the celery into uniform pieces, about half an inch thick. This ensures a consistent texture and allows for even mingling with the other ingredients. A sharp knife is essential for clean cuts; dull knives can crush the stalks and release an undesirable bitter flavor. A good tip is to keep the leaves—those can be added in as well for extra flavor and nutrition.

The Role of Walnuts and Variations

Toasted walnuts are the star of this salad, contributing a rich, nutty flavor that beautifully complements the crispness of the celery. The toasting process enhances their natural oils, resulting in a deeper taste. If you’re short on time, you can skip the toasting, but I recommend using a dry skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, tossing frequently until golden and fragrant. Just be sure to watch them closely; they burn easily.

Feel free to explore variations with different nuts. Pecans or sliced almonds can provide a delightful twist, while sunflower seeds are a great nut-free option if allergies are a concern. You can also play with the sweet elements—consider adding chopped apples or pears for a fruity touch that blends well with the other ingredients.

Ingredients

To prepare this Celery Walnut Side Salad, gather the following ingredients:

Salad Ingredients

4 cups chopped celery
1 cup toasted walnuts, roughly chopped
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup raisins

Dressing Ingredients

3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

Now that you have the ingredients, let's make this refreshing salad.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare the salad:

Prepare the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the chopped celery, toasted walnuts, fresh parsley, and raisins. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Combine and Serve

Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated. Serve immediately for the freshest taste.

Enjoy your delicious and crunchy Celery Walnut Side Salad!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider using a splash of apple cider vinegar in the dressing, or mix in some shredded carrots for additional color and texture.

Make-Ahead Tips

This Celery Walnut Side Salad can be prepared ahead of time, making it an ideal option for meal prep or gatherings. To maintain the crunchiness of the celery, I recommend combining the salad ingredients ahead of time but holding off on adding the dressing until just before serving. This prevents the celery from becoming limp and keeps the overall dish fresh.

If you'd like to store leftovers, place the salad in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It should last for 2-3 days, but note that the texture will soften over time. For a fresh hit of flavor, consider tossing in a few extra toasted walnuts or a dash of lemon juice right before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This salad serves wonderfully as a side dish to grilled meats or roasted vegetables, adding a refreshing counterpoint to richer flavors. You can also elevate it by serving it on a bed of mixed greens or alongside a protein like grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. For a bit of indulgence, serve it with a sprinkle of feta cheese or a dollop of Greek yogurt on top.

If you're looking to make the dish more filling, consider adding quinoa or chickpeas for additional texture and protein. Both options blend seamlessly with the existing flavors and turn the salad into a heartier main. Sometimes, I even toss in a handful of spinach for an extra layer of nutrition!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad in advance?

Yes, you can prepare it a few hours ahead, but it's best to add the dressing just before serving to maintain its crispness.

→ What can I substitute for walnuts?

Pecans or sliced almonds work well as alternatives if you prefer a different nut flavor.

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

Absolutely! All the ingredients are gluten-free, making it a great choice for those with gluten sensitivities.

→ How long will leftovers keep?

The salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day.