There’s something refreshingly crisp about a Green Apple Salad that makes it a perfect addition to any meal. Whether you’re serving it alongside a hearty dinner or enjoying it as a light lunch, this salad shines with its vibrant flavors and delightful textures. The combination of tart Granny Smith apples, crunchy celery, and toasted walnuts creates a harmonious balance, while the zesty dressing ties it all together. Let’s dive into this recipe that is not only simple to prepare but also packed with nutrients!

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This Green Apple Salad is a delightful mix of flavors and textures that will keep you coming back for more. Here’s what makes it special:

Crunchy and refreshing: The apples and celery add a satisfying crunch.
Vibrant flavors: The combination of lemon juice and Dijon mustard gives a tangy kick.
Healthy fats: Walnuts provide heart-healthy fats and protein.
Quick and easy: With minimal prep, you can whip this up in no time!
Versatile: Perfect as a side dish, main course, or even a picnic salad!

The Ingredient Lineup

To make this delicious Green Apple Salad, you’ll need the following ingredients:

2 T fresh-squeezed lemon juice
2 T Dijon mustard
2 T Golden Monkfruit Sweetener or sweetener of your choice
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)

Setup & Equipment

Before you start, gather the following equipment:

Cutting board: For chopping the fruits and vegetables.
Sharp knife: To easily slice through the apples and celery.
Mixing bowl: For combining the salad ingredients.
Whisk: To blend the dressing smoothly.
Serving bowl: To present your beautiful salad.

The Method for Green Apple Salad

Now, let’s get into the step-by-step process of creating this scrumptious Green Apple Salad.

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the fresh-squeezed lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and Golden Monkfruit Sweetener. Whisk these ingredients together until well blended.

Step 2: Add the Olive Oil

While continuing to whisk, slowly drizzle in the extra-virgin olive oil. This will create a smooth, emulsified dressing. Taste and adjust with salt as needed.

Step 3: Chop the Vegetables

Wash and chop the celery stalks into bite-sized pieces, making sure to include the leaves for added flavor. Set aside in a large mixing bowl.

Step 4: Slice the Apples

Core and slice the Granny Smith apples into thin wedges. You can leave the skin on for extra nutrients and color. Add them to the bowl with the celery.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Pour the prepared dressing over the chopped celery and apple mixture. Toss everything together until the salad is evenly coated in the dressing.

Step 6: Toast the Walnuts

In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the walnuts for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently until they are fragrant and golden brown. Allow them to cool slightly, then chop and add them to the salad.

Step 7: Add Cranberries (Optional)

If you’re using reduced sugar dried cranberries, sprinkle them into the salad now. They will add a touch of sweetness that complements the tartness of the apples.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Transfer the Green Apple Salad to a serving bowl. Enjoy it immediately, or let it chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to enhance the flavors.

Seasonal Spins

This Green Apple Salad is versatile and can be tailored to suit different seasons. Consider these variations:

Fall Twist: Add roasted butternut squash and feta cheese for a cozy autumn flavor.
Summer Delight: Incorporate fresh berries for a burst of sweetness and color.
Winter Crunch: Include pomegranate seeds for a festive touch and extra crunch.
Spring Freshness: Toss in some fresh herbs like mint or basil for a refreshing lift.

Cook’s Notes

Feel free to adjust the sweetness of the dressing according to your taste by adding more or less sweetener.
For a nut-free version, simply omit the walnuts or substitute with sunflower seeds.
You can prepare the dressing ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a week.
Leftover salad can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days, but the apples may brown slightly.

Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat

This Green Apple Salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can refrigerate it for a couple of days. Here’s how to handle leftovers:

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Note that the apples will brown slightly.
Freeze: It’s not recommended to freeze this salad, as the texture of the apples and celery will suffer.
Reheat: This salad is best served cold or at room temperature, so no reheating is necessary.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I use other types of apples in this salad?

While Granny Smith apples provide a tart flavor, you can use other varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji apples for a sweeter taste. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change slightly.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dressing in advance and store it separately. Just mix everything together when you’re ready to serve for the freshest taste.

What if I don’t have Dijon mustard?

If you don’t have Dijon mustard, you can substitute it with whole grain mustard or even a bit of honey mustard for a different flavor twist!

Can I add protein to make this salad a meal?

Yes! Adding grilled chicken, chickpeas, or even tofu can turn this Green Apple Salad into a satisfying meal. Just toss in your choice of protein before serving.

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Ready to Cook?

With all these delicious ingredients and simple steps, making your own Green Apple Salad is an absolute breeze. Whether as a side dish or a main course, this recipe is sure to impress. Just gather your ingredients, follow the method, and enjoy the delightful crunch and flavors that this salad offers!

Now that you have everything you need, it’s time to get cooking. Enjoy the refreshing taste of this Green Apple Salad and share it with friends and family. Happy cooking!