Celery Salad With Grapes

Name: Celery Salad With Grapes
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups celery, chopped; 2 cups grapes, halved; 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped (optional); 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar; 1 tablespoon honey; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Light Healthy Meals Collection

I recently discovered a delightful combination of flavors in my Celery Salad with Grapes, and I can't wait to share it with you! This salad is a refreshing mix that combines the crunchiness of celery with the sweetness of juicy grapes, perfect for a light lunch or a side dish at dinner. The addition of toasted nuts adds a lovely texture, while the light dressing brings everything together beautifully. It's a quick and easy recipe that brings a burst of freshness to any meal.

Created by

Emily Carter

Last updated on 2026-01-24T09:09:34.504Z

When I first made this Celery Salad with Grapes, I was surprised at how such simple ingredients could come together to create something so delicious. I used a mixture of red and green grapes to add color and a pop of sweetness. After trying different dressings, I found that a simple vinaigrette really highlights the freshness of the salad without overpowering it.

One tip I’ve learned is to cut the celery into bite-sized pieces to ensure every bite has that satisfying crunch. Plus, to enhance the flavors, I like to sprinkle in some chopped walnuts for an added nutty flavor. This salad has become a staple in my kitchen, and I think you'll love it as much as I do!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Crisp celery paired with sweet, juicy grapes
Light and refreshing for any occasion
Easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep

Understanding the Ingredients

Celery is not just a crunchy vegetable; it brings a refreshing, slightly peppery flavor that pairs exceptionally well with sweet grapes. When choosing celery, look for crisp stalks that are firm without any blemishes. The grapes add a burst of juiciness, and I recommend using seedless varieties for the best texture. Red grapes offer a beautiful color contrast, while green grapes provide a slight tartness, enhancing the overall balance of flavors in the salad.

Walnuts add a delightful crunch and are optional, but they contribute healthy fats and protein. If you have nut allergies, consider substituting with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a similar textural contrast. The red onion provides a mild sharpness, especially when sliced thinly. Soaking sliced red onions in cold water for 10 minutes can help mellow their flavor if you prefer a milder taste.

Perfecting the Dressing

The dressing is a vital component of this salad, and its simplicity enhances the fresh ingredients. Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for a richer flavor. When whisking the dressing, make sure it emulsifies – you want it to be smoothly combined without any separation. If possible, let it sit for about 10 minutes before adding it to the salad; this allows the flavors to meld, creating a more harmonious taste experience.

Honey in the dressing serves as a natural sweetener, balancing the acidity from the apple cider vinegar. If you're looking for alternatives, agave syrup or maple syrup work well as substitutes. Adjust the amount of honey based on the sweetness of your grapes; if they’re particularly sweet, you might reduce the honey for a more balanced dressing.

Ingredients

Get ready to gather your ingredients!

For the Salad

4 cups celery, chopped
2 cups grapes, halved
1/2 cup walnuts, chopped (optional)
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced

For the Dressing

1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon honey
Salt and pepper to taste

Now that you have everything prepared, let’s move on to the steps!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your salad.

Prepare the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped celery, halved grapes, chopped walnuts, and red onion. Mix gently to combine.

Make the Dressing

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Combine and Serve

Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to coat. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to an hour for the flavors to meld.

Your Celery Salad with Grapes is now ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try incorporating fresh herbs like parsley or mint into the salad. You can also substitute the walnuts for almonds or pecans, depending on your preference.

Serving Suggestions

This Celery Salad with Grapes can serve as a refreshing side dish to grilled meats, fish, or even a hearty pasta dish. For a complete meal, consider adding protein like grilled chicken, chickpeas, or feta cheese to make it more filling. I often toss in some cooked quinoa for additional nutritional value, which complements the texture and flavor beautifully.

If you're preparing this salad for a gathering, consider serving it family-style in a large bowl. Garnish it with additional walnuts or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or mint for a vibrant presentation. The colors of the salad are visually appealing, making it a beautiful centerpiece on any dining table.

Storage Tips

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to prepare it ahead of time, store the salad and dressing separately. This prevents the celery from becoming limp. You can keep the salad mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a day. When you're ready to serve, simply add the dressing, toss, and enjoy.

If you find yourself with leftovers, you can still enjoy this salad the next day, but the texture may change slightly. The celery will soften, but you can freshen it up by adding a little extra dressing. Just give it a quick toss to reinvigorate the flavors before serving, and consider adding more grapes or nuts to replenish its delightful crunch.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance, but it's best to add the dressing just before serving to keep the vegetables crisp.

→ What other fruits can I add?

Feel free to add other fruits like diced apples or mandarin oranges for a different flavor profile!

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

Absolutely! All the ingredients used are naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.

→ Can I use a different dressing?

Of course! You can try a yogurt-based dressing for a creamier texture or a lemon vinaigrette for a zesty kick.