Creamy Celery Salad with Walnuts and Raisins

Creamy Celery Salad with Walnuts and Raisins is a delightful dish that combines crisp celery, sweet raisins, and crunchy walnuts in a rich, creamy dressing. This versatile salad is perfect for picnics, potlucks, or simply as a side dish at dinner. Its easy preparation and refreshing flavors make it a go-to recipe for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this salad in no time.
• Healthful Ingredients: Packed with celery, walnuts, and raisins, this salad offers a nutritious boost to your meals.
• Versatile Dish: This creamy celery salad pairs well with various main courses or can be enjoyed on its own as a light lunch.
• Delicious Flavor Combination: The mix of crunchy textures and sweet notes creates a satisfying taste experience.
• Customizable Recipe: Feel free to add other ingredients like apples or grapes for extra flavor.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Creamy Celery Salad with Walnuts and Raisins efficiently, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Spoon for mixing

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine all ingredients easily without making a mess.
• Sharp knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts when slicing the celery and onions, making preparation quick and safe.
• Spoon for mixing: A sturdy spoon helps mix everything thoroughly to ensure all flavors are well combined.

Ingredients

For the Salad

• 8 stalks celery (sliced thin)
• ¼ cup raisins
• ¼ cup toasted walnuts
• ¼ cup minced red onion

For the Dressing

• 3 tablespoons plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or 1 teaspoon white vinegar)
• ½ teaspoon pepper
• ¼ teaspoon salt

How to Make Creamy Celery Salad with Walnuts and Raisins

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Slice the celery into thin pieces and mince the red onion.
2. Toast the walnuts in a dry pan over medium heat until golden brown; set aside to cool.

Step 2: Mix the Salad

1. In a large mixing bowl, add the sliced celery, raisins, toasted walnuts, and minced red onion.
2. In a separate bowl, combine plain yogurt, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar (or white vinegar), pepper, and salt; mix until smooth.

Step 3: Combine Everything

1. Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients in the mixing bowl.
2. Gently stir until all components are well coated in the dressing.

Step 4: Serve

1. Transfer to a serving dish or enjoy directly from the bowl!
2. Chill for about 30 minutes if desired before serving for enhanced flavors.

Now you have a delicious Creamy Celery Salad with Walnuts and Raisins ready to delight everyone! Enjoy your fresh creation at your next meal or gathering!

How to Serve Creamy Celery Salad with Walnuts and Raisins

Serving Creamy Celery Salad with Walnuts and Raisins can elevate your meal and impress your guests. This salad is versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes. Here are some delightful serving suggestions.

As a Standalone Dish

• A light lunch option that is refreshing and satisfying on its own, perfect for warm days.

On a Bed of Greens

• Serve the salad atop fresh spinach or mixed greens for added color and nutrition.

Alongside Grilled Chicken

• Pair this salad with grilled chicken breast for a complete meal that’s both tasty and wholesome.

In a Sandwich Wrap

• Use it as a filling in whole-grain wraps or pita bread for an easy-to-eat lunch option.

How to Perfect Creamy Celery Salad with Walnuts and Raisins

To make the best Creamy Celery Salad with Walnuts and Raisins, follow these helpful tips for maximum flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh celery, walnuts, and raisins enhance the overall taste of the salad.
• Toast the Walnuts: Toasting walnuts brings out their rich flavor, adding depth to your salad.
• Adjust Dressing Consistency: If you prefer a lighter dressing, add more yogurt or a splash of apple cider vinegar.
• Chill Before Serving: Allowing the salad to chill in the fridge for 30 minutes helps meld the flavors together beautifully.
• Experiment with Add-ins: Consider adding diced apples or grapes for extra sweetness and crunch.
• Serve Immediately: For the best texture, serve shortly after mixing to maintain the crunchiness of the celery.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Celery Salad with Walnuts and Raisins

Complement your Creamy Celery Salad with Walnuts and Raisins by serving it alongside these delicious side dishes. Each one enhances your meal while keeping it balanced.

1. Grilled Vegetables: Charred bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus add smoky flavors that contrast nicely with the creamy salad.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty quinoa pilaf loaded with herbs complements the freshness of the celery salad without overpowering it.
3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes provide a hearty side that pairs well with the crunchy textures of the salad.
4. Couscous Salad: A light couscous salad filled with cherry tomatoes and cucumber adds an additional layer of freshness.
5. Hummus Platter: Serve this creamy dip alongside pita chips and fresh vegetables for a flavorful snack option.
6. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers stuffed with rice or grains make for an appealing presentation alongside your salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make the perfect Creamy Celery Salad with Walnuts and Raisins, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls.

• Overcooking the Celery: Celery should remain crunchy. Avoid boiling or cooking it, as this will make it limp.
• Ignoring the Balance of Flavors: Skipping the vinegar can lead to a bland salad. Make sure to balance the sweetness of raisins with a bit of acidity from apple cider vinegar.
• Using Old Ingredients: Freshness matters! Always check that your celery and walnuts are fresh for the best flavor and texture.
• Mixing Too Aggressively: Gently toss your ingredients. Overmixing can break down the celery and turn your salad mushy.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Don’t forget to season! A little salt and pepper can enhance the overall taste significantly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep it refrigerated to maintain freshness.

Freezing Creamy Celery Salad with Walnuts and Raisins

• Freezing is not recommended due to the texture of celery after thawing.
• If necessary, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month, but expect changes in texture.

Reheating Creamy Celery Salad with Walnuts and Raisins

• Oven: Not recommended; this salad is best served cold.
• Microwave: Not applicable since this dish is not served hot.
• Stovetop: Not applicable; enjoy it straight from the fridge!

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Creamy Celery Salad with Walnuts and Raisins.

Can I customize the Creamy Celery Salad with Walnuts and Raisins?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other nuts, fruits, or even diced apple for extra crunch and flavor.

What other dressings can I use for this salad?

You can replace yogurt with sour cream or use a vinaigrette for a lighter option.

How do I keep my celery crunchy in the Creamy Celery Salad?

Store your salad immediately in an airtight container in the fridge. This helps retain its crispiness.

What are some good pairings with Creamy Celery Salad with Walnuts and Raisins?

This salad pairs well with grilled chicken or turkey sandwiches, making it a versatile side dish.

Final Thoughts

The Creamy Celery Salad with Walnuts and Raisins is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. It’s easy to prepare, making it a fantastic option for lunch or dinner. Customize it by adding your favorite nuts or fruits for an extra twist. Give it a try—you’re sure to enjoy every crunchy bite!

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Creamy Celery Salad with Walnuts and Raisins

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 0 hours
• Yield: Serves approximately 4

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Description

Creamy Celery Salad with Walnuts and Raisins is a refreshing and crunchy dish that brings together crisp celery, sweet raisins, and toasted walnuts in a smooth dressing. This delightful salad is quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for picnics, potlucks, or as a side dish for any meal. Its unique combination of flavors and textures will impress your guests while providing a nutritious boost to your dining experience.

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Ingredients

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• 8 stalks celery (sliced thin)
• ¼ cup raisins
• ¼ cup toasted walnuts
• ¼ cup minced red onion
• 3 tablespoons plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• ½ teaspoon pepper
• ¼ teaspoon salt

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Instructions

1. Slice the celery into thin pieces and mince the red onion. Toast the walnuts in a dry pan over medium heat until golden brown; set aside to cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine the sliced celery, raisins, toasted walnuts, and minced red onion.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the plain yogurt, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, pepper, and salt until smooth.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and gently stir until everything is well coated.
5. Serve immediately or chill for about 30 minutes to enhance flavors.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: None
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: North American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 9g
• Sodium: 210mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 5mg