Green Apple Salad

There’s something truly refreshing about a Green Apple Salad that brings me back to sunny days at the farmer’s market. I remember strolling through the vibrant stalls, the scent of fresh produce filling the air, and my eyes landing on those crisp Granny Smith apples. Their bright green hue and tartness call out to be transformed into something special. Inspired by their crunch, I decided to create a salad that not only highlights their flavor but also complements it beautifully with other fresh ingredients. This isn’t just any salad; it’s a delightful mix of textures and tastes that dances on your palate. Whether it’s a summer picnic, a family gathering, or just a simple dinner at home, this Green Apple Salad is bound to impress.

The beauty of this salad lies in its simplicity and versatility. I love how it can be a side dish to any meal or stand proudly on its own as a light lunch. The combination of crunchy celery, sweet apples, and toasted walnuts creates a delightful crunch in every bite. Plus, the dressing, made from fresh lemon juice and Dijon mustard, ties everything together with a zesty kick. It’s refreshing, healthy, and oh-so-satisfying!

One of the best things about this Green Apple Salad is how easy it is to make. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a dish that looks gourmet and tastes even better. I often find myself preparing it when I want to impress guests or simply enjoy a nutritious meal. It’s a reminder that food doesn’t have to be complicated to be delicious.

This salad has become a staple in my kitchen, and I hope it will find a special place in yours too. So grab those beautiful green apples, and let’s get started on this delicious journey!

Ingredients Required for Green Apple Salad

In creating the Green Apple Salad, the ingredients play a crucial role in delivering fresh flavors and satisfying textures. Each component brings its unique essence to the dish, creating a harmonious blend that is both tasty and nourishing.

• 2 T fresh-squeezed lemon juice: This bright, zesty juice not only adds flavor but also helps to keep the apples from browning, ensuring your salad looks as great as it tastes.
• 2 T Dijon mustard: A touch of Dijon brings a tangy kick to the dressing, enhancing the flavors of the salad.
• 2 T Golden Monkfruit Sweetener: A natural sweetener that balances the acidity of the lemon juice and mustard, allowing the flavors to shine without overwhelming sweetness.
• 6 T extra-virgin olive oil: This high-quality oil adds richness and helps to emulsify the dressing, making it smooth and luxurious.
• 6 large stalks celery with leaves: Crunchy, hydrating, and full of flavor, celery adds a satisfying crunch to each bite.
• 2 large Granny Smith apples: These tart apples are the star of the salad, providing a crisp texture and vibrant flavor that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients.
• Salt to taste: A little seasoning enhances the flavors of all the ingredients, making the salad even more delicious.
• 1/2 cup walnuts, toasted then chopped: Adding toasted walnuts gives a lovely crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the apples perfectly.
• Reduced sugar dried cranberries (optional): These can add a sweet, chewy element if you choose to include them, contrasting nicely with the crunch of the salad.

The Method for Green Apple Salad

Making the Green Apple Salad is a straightforward process that can become a delightful part of your culinary routine. Follow these easy steps to create a salad that’s bursting with flavor and freshness.

1. Start by whisking together the fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Golden Monkfruit Sweetener, and extra-virgin olive oil in a medium bowl. This mixture will serve as your dressing. Make sure to whisk until it’s well combined and set it aside. The dressing should be smooth and slightly emulsified.
2. Next, take one of the Granny Smith apples. Cut it into quarters and peel the skin off. Remove the seeds from each quarter and cut them into smaller wedges. You want them thin enough to easily mix into the salad. This process not only helps with presentation but also ensures that you’ll enjoy a balanced taste of apple in each bite.
3. To prevent the apple wedges from browning, toss them with a small amount of the dressing immediately after cutting. This will keep their vibrant green color and tangy flavor intact, making your Green Apple Salad visually appealing.
4. In a dry pan over high heat, toast the walnuts for about two minutes or until they begin to smell fragrant. Be vigilant; they can burn quickly! Once toasted, set them aside to cool slightly. The aroma will fill your kitchen and make your mouth water.
5. Next, wash the celery stalks thoroughly and ensure they are dry. Cut the leaves away from the stalks and finely chop them to yield about half a cup. Slice the stalks into thin pieces, aiming for two to three cups of sliced celery. This will add a crunchy texture to your salad.
6. Combine the sliced celery, chopped celery leaves, and the apple/walnut mixture in a large bowl. Gently stir to mix everything together. This adds a beautiful array of colors and textures to the Green Apple Salad.
7. Drizzle enough additional dressing over the salad so that the celery and apples are well coated but not overly wet. You might not need all the dressing, so add it gradually until you reach your desired level of flavor. Toss gently to combine.
8. Season the salad with salt to taste. A little seasoning can elevate the flavors, so start small; you can always add more.
9. Finally, coarsely chop the toasted walnuts and mix them into the salad along with the dried cranberries if you’re using them. This final touch adds crunch and a hint of sweetness, creating a well-rounded dish. Serve immediately for the best crispness!

How to Switch It Up

If you’re looking to switch up the Green Apple Salad, there are plenty of creative ways to make this dish even more exciting. Consider the following tips for variations and enhancements:

• Additional fruits: Add slices of pear or berries for a burst of sweetness.
• Cheese options: Crumbled feta or goat cheese can provide a creamy contrast to the crunchy salad.
• Herb infusion: Fresh herbs like mint or basil can add an aromatic twist to the flavors.
• Greens addition: Incorporate some mixed greens or spinach for added nutrients and color.
• Protein boost: Include some grilled chicken or chickpeas to turn this side dish into a filling main course.
• Experiment with dressings: Swap the dressing for a yogurt-based or vinaigrette for a different taste experience.
• Seasonal variations: For fall, add roasted butternut squash, or for summer, mix in grilled corn.

What to Pair With Green Apple Salad

• Grilled chicken: This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, adding a protein element that complements the crispness of the salad.
• Barbecue meats: For summer gatherings, serve alongside barbecue ribs or steak for a refreshing contrast.
• Sandwiches: Enjoy it as a side to deli sandwiches or wraps for a balanced meal.
• Pasta dishes: It can also accompany creamy pasta dishes, cutting through the richness.
• Picnics and BBQs: Perfect for outdoor events, bringing a lightness to heavier food options.
• Seasonal occasions: Great for holidays or family gatherings, offering a fresh side that everyone will love.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Green Apple Salad is a delightful dish that perfectly balances tart and sweet flavors, making it an instant favorite. Its refreshing qualities and ease of preparation make it the ideal choice for any occasion, whether it’s a simple lunch or a festive gathering. I encourage you to try this salad recipe and enjoy the burst of flavors that come with every bite. You won’t regret adding this vibrant dish to your table!

Green Apple Salad

Craving something refreshing? The Green Apple Salad is the perfect blend of tart apples, crunchy celery, and toasted walnuts, all brought together with a tangy dressing. A delightful, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion, this salad will brighten up your meal and leave you wanting more!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Course Salads

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 220 kcal

Equipment

• Wooden Spoon
• Peeler
• Mixing Bowl
• Frying Pan
• Chef's Knife
• Whisk

Ingredients

  

• 2 T fresh-squeezed lemon juice
• 2 T Dijon mustard
• 2 T Golden Monkfruit Sweetener
• 6 T extra-virgin olive oil
• 6 large stalks celery with leaves
• 2 large Granny Smith apples
• salt to taste
• 1/2 cup walnuts, toasted then chopped
• reduced sugar dried cranberries optional

Instructions

 

• Start by whisking together the fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Golden Monkfruit Sweetener, and extra-virgin olive oil in a medium bowl. This mixture will serve as your dressing. Make sure to whisk until it’s well combined and set it aside. The dressing should be smooth and slightly emulsified.
• Next, take one of the Granny Smith apples. Cut it into quarters and peel the skin off. Remove the seeds from each quarter and cut them into smaller wedges. You want them thin enough to easily mix into the salad. This process not only helps with presentation but also ensures that you’ll enjoy a balanced taste of apple in each bite.
• To prevent the apple wedges from browning, toss them with a small amount of the dressing immediately after cutting. This will keep their vibrant green color and tangy flavor intact, making your Green Apple Salad visually appealing.
• In a dry pan over high heat, toast the walnuts for about two minutes or until they begin to smell fragrant. Be vigilant; they can burn quickly! Once toasted, set them aside to cool slightly. The aroma will fill your kitchen and make your mouth water.
• Next, wash the celery stalks thoroughly and ensure they are dry. Cut the leaves away from the stalks and finely chop them to yield about half a cup. Slice the stalks into thin pieces, aiming for two to three cups of sliced celery. This will add a crunchy texture to your salad.
• Combine the sliced celery, chopped celery leaves, and the apple/walnut mixture in a large bowl. Gently stir to mix everything together. This adds a beautiful array of colors and textures to the Green Apple Salad.
• Drizzle enough additional dressing over the salad so that the celery and apples are well coated but not overly wet. You might not need all the dressing, so add it gradually until you reach your desired level of flavor. Toss gently to combine.
• Season the salad with salt to taste. A little seasoning can elevate the flavors, so start small; you can always add more.
• Finally, coarsely chop the toasted walnuts and mix them into the salad along with the dried cranberries if you’re using them. This final touch adds crunch and a hint of sweetness, creating a well-rounded dish. Serve immediately for the best crispness!

Notes

• Keep apples fresh: To prevent browning, toss apple slices immediately with dressing.
• Adjust sweetness: You can adjust the sweetness of the dressing by adding more or less of the sweetener.
• Toast nuts carefully: Always toast nuts in a dry pan and watch closely to prevent burning.
• Fresh ingredients count: Always choose the freshest ingredients for the best flavor in your salad.

Keyword Crispy Apple Salad, Easy Salad Ideas, Green Apple Salad, Healthy Salad Recipe