If you’re searching for a refreshing, crunchy salad that’s as vibrant as it is simple, this Simple Celery Apple Salad With Lemon Dressing Recipe is going to be your new go-to. With the perfect balance of crisp celery, sweet-tart honeycrisp apples, and nutty gruyere cheese, all tossed in a zesty lemon dressing, every bite perks up your taste buds. This salad is a breeze to make, bright enough to brighten any meal, and versatile enough to serve on its own or alongside a hearty dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting this salad right is all about using fresh, simple ingredients that bring a mix of textures and flavors to the table. Each component plays a crucial role from the crispness of celery to the creamy, salty notes of gruyere, complemented perfectly by the crisp apple and vibrant lemon dressing.
- Celery: Choose a fresh, firm bunch as it provides the essential crunchy texture and subtle herbaceous note to the salad.
- Apples (Honeycrisp preferred): Their natural sweetness and juiciness add a perfect contrast to the crisp celery.
- Gruyere cheese: Shaved thin, it adds a rich, nutty flavor and creamy texture that balances the salad beautifully.
- Olive oil: A quality olive oil creates a smooth base for the lemon dressing, bringing richness without overpowering other flavors.
- Lemon juice: Delivers a bright, tangy zip essential for the dressing’s refreshing tang.
- White wine vinegar: Adds depth and a touch of acidity that enhances the overall brightness.
- Maple syrup: Just a little bit of sweetness to round out the dressing’s tartness.
- Dijon mustard: Brings subtle heat and complexity to the lemon dressing.
- Garlic powder: Introduces a gentle savory undertone to lift the flavors.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasoning to balance and enhance every ingredient.
How to Make Simple Celery Apple Salad With Lemon Dressing Recipe
Step 1: Whisk Together the Lemon Dressing
Start by combining the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, white wine vinegar, maple syrup, dijon mustard, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a small bowl or jar. Whisk or shake vigorously until everything is well combined into a smooth, bright vinaigrette. Setting this aside lets the flavors meld while you prepare the salad.
Step 2: Prepare the Celery
Trim any brown or damaged ends from your celery stalks, then slice them thinly into bite-sized pieces that are perfect for scooping with a fork. Don’t toss out the celery leaves if they look fresh—chop them finely and save them to sprinkle on top for an extra burst of color and mild celery flavor.
Step 3: Shave the Gruyere Cheese
Using a vegetable peeler or a sharp knife, shave thin slices of gruyere cheese from the block. These delicate ribbons add a creamy and slightly nutty touch that elevates the salad from simple to gourmet with every mouthful.
Step 4: Slice the Apples
Core the apples and slice them thinly before chopping into bite-sized pieces that match the celery’s crunch. Honeycrisp apples work beautifully here, lending a crisp, juicy sweetness that balances perfectly with the tangy dressing.
Step 5: Toss Everything Together
In a large salad bowl, combine the chopped celery, apples, shaved gruyere, and any reserved celery greens. Give the lemon dressing one last quick whisk, then pour it over the salad. Add your final seasoning with salt and pepper, then toss gently but thoroughly so each bite is bursting with flavor. Serve immediately to enjoy the salad’s fresh, crisp texture.
How to Serve Simple Celery Apple Salad With Lemon Dressing Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped celery leaves or finely chopped parsley on top for a pretty, fragrant garnish. A few extra shavings of gruyere or a light dusting of cracked black pepper can also add a beautiful finish and enhance the salad’s flavors.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken, grilled fish, or even alongside a rich quiche. The crisp, bright flavors provide an excellent contrast to hearty mains, making an ideal light accompaniment that doesn’t overwhelm.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this salad in endive leaves or small cups made of hollowed-out apples for a delightful appetizer presentation. You can also toss it with some toasted walnuts or pecans to add crunch and a warm nutty note that complements the lemon dressing beautifully.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one day. Because the apples tend to brown and the celery loses crunch over time, it’s best enjoyed fresh, but short-term storage is possible if needed.
Freezing
This salad is not suitable for freezing. The crisp textures of celery and apples won’t hold up well after thawing, so it’s best to make it fresh whenever possible.
Reheating
Since this is a cold, fresh salad, reheating is not recommended. The best way to enjoy it is chilled or at room temperature shortly after preparing.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese in this salad?
Absolutely! While gruyere offers a wonderful nutty flavor and creamy texture, you could substitute with aged cheddar, fontina, or a mild gouda depending on your preference.
What other apple varieties work well in this recipe?
Honeycrisp is ideal due to its balance of sweetness and tartness, but you can also try gala, pink lady, or fuji apples. Just look for apples that hold their shape and have a crisp texture.
Is this salad vegan-friendly?
You can make it vegan by omitting the gruyere cheese or replacing it with a plant-based cheese alternative. The lemon dressing itself is naturally vegan and flavorful on its own.
Can I prepare the dressing in advance?
Yes, the lemon dressing can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge. Just give it a good whisk or shake before using as the ingredients may separate over time.
How can I keep the apples from browning?
To minimize browning, toss the sliced apples in a little lemon juice right away or prepare and dress the salad just before serving to keep everything fresh and vibrant.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly satisfying about a salad that’s quick to assemble, packed with fresh flavors, and pleasing textures like this Simple Celery Apple Salad With Lemon Dressing Recipe. Whether you’re serving it as a light lunch, a side for dinner, or a refreshing snack, it’s guaranteed to add brightness to your table. Give it a try soon and watch it become a favorite in your recipe collection!
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Simple Celery Apple Salad With Lemon Dressing Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A crisp and refreshing Simple Celery Apple Salad with a tangy lemon vinaigrette, featuring crunchy celery, sweet honeycrisp apples, and nutty gruyere cheese. This easy-to-make salad is perfect for a light lunch or a vibrant side dish to any meal.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 1 large bunch celery
- 2 medium apples (I used honeycrisp)
- 1/2 cup gruyere cheese, shaved
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Lemon Dressing
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 lemon, juice only
- 1 Tbsp white wine vinegar
- 1 tsp maple syrup
- 1/2 tsp dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Make the lemon vinaigrette: Combine olive oil, lemon juice, white wine vinegar, maple syrup, dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl or jar with a lid. Whisk or shake well until emulsified. Set aside.
- Prepare the celery: Trim off any brown or damaged ends from the celery stalks, then slice them into thin, bite-sized pieces. If celery leaves are fresh and appealing, chop them finely to use as garnish and minimize waste.
- Shave the gruyere cheese: Using a vegetable peeler, shave the gruyere into thin, delicate slices to add a nutty, creamy texture to the salad.
- Prepare the apples: Core the apples and slice them thinly. Cut these slices further into bite-sized pieces to match the celery size for easy eating.
- Assemble the salad: In a large salad bowl, combine the chopped celery, apples, shaved gruyere, and celery leaves. Give the dressing a final whisk and pour it over the salad. Season with additional salt and pepper as desired. Toss gently to combine thoroughly.
- Serve immediately: This salad is at its freshest and crunchiest when served right after tossing with the dressing. Enjoy as a vibrant side or light meal.
Notes
- For best flavor, use crisp apples such as honeycrisp or gala.
- Gruyere can be substituted with another semi-hard cheese if preferred.
- If celery leaves are unavailable, fresh parsley can be used as an alternative garnish.
- This salad is best eaten immediately to retain its crisp texture; avoid marinating for too long to prevent sogginess.
- Adjust the lemon and vinegar quantities according to your taste preference for acidity.
