Crunchy Perfection: Apple-Celery Salad with Maple-Dijon Zing

In salads, few combinations offer the same delightful crunch and sweet-savory harmony as the Apple-Celery Salad with Maple-Dijon Vinaigrette. This healthy salad recipe is a refreshing side dish that celebrates the goodness of fresh ingredients. You get the perfect balance of flavors and textures with a simple 2:3 ratio of apple slices and celery sticks.

What makes this salad truly exceptional is the homemade dijon vinaigrette. The vinaigrette combines the earthy sweetness of maple syrup with the tangy kick of Dijon mustard, creating a dressing that's a taste sensation on its own.

This Apple-Celery Salad with Maple-Dijon Vinaigrette salad is not just about flavor.

This salad is not just about flavor; it's packed with wholesome greens, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to incorporate more nutrients into their diet. The apples add a natural sweetness, while the celery provides a satisfying crunch, resulting in a healthy and satisfying salad.

Preparing this celery salad is a breeze. It's a quick and easy recipe for busy weeknights or a delightful dinner table addition. With its sweet and savory combination, this salad is a true crowd-pleaser.

So, if you're looking for a simple yet sensational salad, try the Apple-Celery Salad with Maple-Dijon Vinaigrette. It's a fresh and delicious dish that combines the best of both worlds - flavor and health.

This was inspired by my other recipe on this site, and pairs well with this amazing sidedish recipe.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: <5 minutes
Serves: 4-6

Ingredients needed to make Apple-Celery Salad with Maple-Dijon Vinaigrette.

¼ c. pecans, roughly chopped, divided
6 large celery stalks (preferably organic), sliced
Celery leaves (from stalks), roughly chopped*1 large red apple, chopped
¼ c. dried cranberries
Sea salt and black pepper, to taste
3 T. Parmesan cheese, shaved

Maple-Dijon Salad Vinaigrette:

1 t. Dijon Mustard**
2 T. real maple syrup 
2 T. red wine vinegar
2 T. extra virgin olive oil, sea salt, and black pepper, to taste

**For less sweet results, add 1-2 additional teaspoons of Dijon mustard

How to make Apple-Celery Salad with Maple-Dijon Vinaigrette.

1. Prepare the vinaigrette by adding all ingredients to a salad shaker or jar with a tight-fitting lid. Cover and shake vigorously to combine. Set aside.
   
2. Add chopped pecans to a small dry skillet set over medium heat. Heat for several minutes, stirring occasionally, until toasted. Remove from heat and set aside.
   
3. Add celery, apples, celery leaves, cranberries, and three tablespoons of toasted pecans to a large salad bowl. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Drizzle the vinaigrette on top and toss to combine.
   
4. To serve, divide the salad onto chilled plates and top with remaining toasted pecans and shaved Parmesan cheese. Enjoy!

Variations on the Apple-Celery Salad with Maple-Dijon Vinaigrette recipe

Here are 10 variations you can apply to the "Apple-Celery Salad with Maple-Dijon Vinaigrette" recipe to keep it exciting and adapt to different tastes:

1. Protein Power: Add grilled chicken, tofu, or chickpeas for a protein boost.
   
2. Cheese Lover's Dream: Sprinkle feta, goat cheese, or blue cheese crumbles on top.
   
3. Nuts Galore: Incorporate candied pecans, walnuts, or almonds for extra crunch.
   
4. Fruit Fusion: Mix in sliced strawberries, pears, or dried cranberries for a fruity twist.
   
5. Herb Haven: Toss in fresh basil, mint, or cilantro leaves for a herby kick.
   
6. Grainy Goodness: Serve the salad on a bed of quinoa, couscous, or farro.
   
7. Avocado Bliss: Add avocado slices for creaminess and healthy fats.
   
8. Asian Influence: Swap out the vinaigrette for a sesame-ginger dressing with sesame seeds.
   
9. Greens Medley: Use a mix of arugula, spinach, and kale for a diverse leafy base.
   
10. Spicy Kick: Sprinkle red pepper flakes or add a drizzle of honey for a sweet and spicy flair.

These variations will keep your "Apple-Celery Salad with Maple-Dijon Vinaigrette" exciting and adaptable to various occasions and preferences. Enjoy experimenting!

Top Tips to know of when making Apple-Celery Salad with Maple-Dijon Vinaigrette.

Here are 10 top tips to make your "Apple-Celery Salad with Maple-Dijon Vinaigrette" a hit:

1. Fresh Ingredients: Use the freshest apples and celery for a crisp and flavorful salad.
   
2. Knife Skills: Practice your knife skills for consistent, uniform slicing of apples and celery.
   
3. Dressing Balance: Adjust the vinaigrette's sweetness and tanginess to your liking by varying the maple syrup and Dijon mustard quantities.
   
4. Toss Just Before Serving: Combine the salad ingredients with the dressing just before serving to keep it crunchy and fresh.
   
5. Acid Splash: Sprinkle a bit of lemon juice on the apples to prevent browning.
   
6. Chill It: For extra refreshing goodness, chill the salad ingredients before assembly.
   
7. Nutty Crunch: Toast the nuts lightly in a dry pan for an enhanced nutty flavor and crunch.
   
8. Cheese Strategy: If you add cheese, choose a character like blue cheese for a bold flavor.
   
9. Seasoning Sensation: Don't forget to season your salad with a pinch of salt and black pepper.
   
11. Customize: Feel free to adapt this salad with your favorite extras like protein, different greens, or extra toppings. Make it your own!

With these top tips, your "Apple-Celery Salad with Maple-Dijon Vinaigrette" will be a delightful, refreshing dish everyone will enjoy. Happy salad-making!

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