Celery Salad With Grapes And Walnuts

Name: Celery Salad With Grapes And Walnuts
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups celery, chopped; 1 cup grapes, halved; 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy Plate Inspirations

I love making this Celery Salad with Grapes and Walnuts because it brings together crunchy, sweet, and creamy elements that balance beautifully. The crisp celery adds a refreshing bite, while the juicy grapes burst with flavor, and the walnuts provide a satisfying crunch. Tossed in a light dressing, this salad is perfect as a side dish or a light lunch. Not only is it quick to prepare, but it also offers a delightful combination that keeps my taste buds excited every time I enjoy it.

Created by

Charity Bowen

Last updated on 2026-01-24T10:31:08.983Z

When I first created this Celery Salad with Grapes and Walnuts, I wanted to highlight the refreshing qualities of celery in a way that felt indulgent yet still healthy. After several tries, I found that mixing fresh grapes with the crunchy celery really elevated the flavor profile. The sweetness of the grapes beautifully contrasts with the savory crunch of the walnuts, making each bite a delightful experience.

What really makes this dish shine is the dressing. Using a mix of olive oil and lemon juice allows the natural flavors of the ingredients to come forward without overpowering them. I recommend adding the dressing just before serving to prevent the salad from becoming soggy. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Refreshing crunch of celery paired with sweet grapes
Nutty walnuts add a delightful texture
Light and healthy, perfect for any occasion

The Role of Each Ingredient

The celery is the star of this dish, providing a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft, juicy grapes. Its high water content adds a refreshing element, making it an essential component of this salad. When choosing celery, look for firm stalks with bright green leaves for the best flavor and texture. The grapes not only contribute sweetness but also add a pop of color, enhancing the visual appeal of the dish. Opt for seedless grapes to ensure a smooth eating experience.

Walnuts are a crucial ingredient, adding a nutty flavor and a distinctive crunch that balances the sweetness of the grapes. Toasting the walnuts lightly before adding them to the salad can elevate their flavor, bringing out a rich, buttery essence. Be vigilant: toast them over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently to avoid burning. This step enhances not just the taste but also the overall complexity of the texture in your salad.

Perfecting the Dressing

The dressing is the binding element that unites all the ingredients in this salad. A good balance of mayonnaise and lemon juice is crucial; the acidity from the lemon brightens the richness of the mayonnaise. If you prefer a lighter option, Greek yogurt can be substituted for mayonnaise without sacrificing creaminess. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to suit your taste, as this will accentuate the natural flavors of the celery and grapes.

For an added depth of flavor, consider incorporating a touch of Dijon mustard or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like dill or parsley. These additions can provide an aromatic lift and a bit of complexity that enriches every bite. When mixing the dressing, aim for a smooth consistency and ensure it’s well combined before tossing it with the salad ingredients.

Ingredients

For the Salad

4 cups celery, chopped
1 cup grapes, halved
1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix all ingredients in a bowl and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving.

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Chop the celery into bite-sized pieces and halve the grapes. Chop the walnuts roughly.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise and lemon juice. Mix well and season with salt and pepper.

Combine Everything

In a large bowl, toss the celery, grapes, and walnuts with the dressing until well coated.

Serve

Chill the salad for 30 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.

Enjoy your refreshing salad as a side dish or a light meal!

Pro Tips

Make sure to use fresh, crisp celery for the best flavor and texture. You can also add other nuts or fruits if you desire.

Make-Ahead Tips

This celery salad is exceptionally versatile when it comes to make-ahead options. You can prepare the salad components a day in advance, keeping the vinaigrette separate until just before serving to preserve the freshness of the ingredients. Store the chopped celery and halved grapes in airtight containers in the refrigerator for maximum crunch, and keep the walnuts in a sealed bag to prevent them from absorbing moisture.

If you decide to make this salad ahead of time, remember to give it a good stir before serving to redistribute the dressing. Additionally, consider adding the walnuts just before serving to maintain their texture. This way, the salad retains its vibrant and crunchy qualities, ensuring a delightful experience.

Serving Suggestions

This celery salad can shine alone or complement a variety of dishes. Serve it as a refreshing side alongside grilled meats like chicken or salmon, where its crunchy sweetness can cut through the richness of the main dish. Alternatively, it works wonderfully on a picnic spread, paired with a chilled glass of white wine or lemonade, making it a fantastic option for warm weather gatherings.

For a more substantial meal, consider adding protein like diced rotisserie chicken or chickpeas to the salad. This not only boosts the nutritional content but also transforms it into a satisfying main course. Drizzle a little extra lemon juice or your favorite vinaigrette over the top for an added zing, making it a flavorful option for lunch meal prep or a quick dinner solution.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients and dressing separately and combine them just before serving to keep the salad fresh.

→ Is it possible to make this salad vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute the mayonnaise with a vegan alternative to make it vegan-friendly.

→ What can I serve this salad with?

This salad pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or as part of a picnic spread.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.