Harvest Celery Apple Salad

The leaves are changing, and that means it’s time to celebrate the bounties of the season with a delicious Harvest Celery Apple Salad. This dish is not just about vibrant autumn colors; it also brings together an incredible mix of flavors and textures. Imagine crunchy celery, sweet apples, chewy cranberries, and rich pecans all harmonizing on one plate. It’s fresh, fun, and oh-so-simple to make!

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Whether you’re hosting a cozy fall gathering or just want a healthy dish to enjoy, this salad fits the bill perfectly. Grab your favorite apple varieties, some celery, and a few pantry staples, and you’re ready to get started. Plus, this salad is visually stunning, making it a great centerpiece for any table. So, gather your ingredients, and let’s whip up a dish that will delight your taste buds and impress your family and friends!

Why This Recipe Works

One of the best parts about this Harvest Celery Apple Salad is how it showcases seasonal flavors, using fresh ingredients that are often at their peak during the fall. The balance of sweet and savory makes each bite enjoyable. As you crunch into the celery and crisp apples, you’ll appreciate how the textures all come together.

In addition, the richness of the pecans adds a delightful contrast. This dish isn’t just a salad; it’s a party for your mouth, celebrating the best of what autumn has to offer. Each layer of flavor plays off the others beautifully.

Why You’ll Love This Harvest Celery Apple Salad

You’ll love this salad not only for its taste but also for how easy it is to prepare. It requires minimal chopping and mixing, which means you won’t be stuck in the kitchen for hours. It’s perfect for fall gatherings, where you might need something light yet filling.

Not to mention, it’s a nutritious option that looks lovely on any table. The combination of fruits, nuts, and veggies catches the eye, making it not just a meal but an experience. With its bright colors and satisfying crunch, this salad quickly becomes a favorite.

Ingredients for Harvest Celery Apple Salad

• 5 ½ to 6 cups celery, diagonally diced into ½ inch pieces (21 to 24 oz.)
• 1 medium Honeycrisp apple (or Gala, or Granny Smith), unpeeled, small dice
• ¾ cup dried cranberries (or golden raisins, or diced dates)
• ½ to ¾ cup finely diced red onion (to taste)

Glazed Toasted Pecans

• 1 cup pecans
• 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup

Dressing Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons + 1 teaspoon tahini
• 1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon pure maple syrup (to taste)
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Pinch to 1 teaspoon sea salt (to taste)

Preparing the Glazed Toasted Pecans

Toast and Glaze the Pecans

Start by preparing the glazed toasted pecans. In a small skillet over medium heat, add the pecans. Stir them constantly to avoid burning, until they become toasty and fragrant. Once they’re lovely and aromatic, add the maple syrup. Keep stirring until the syrup becomes bubbly and sticky. Then, transfer the pecans to a plate to cool. The glaze gives them a sweet finish that will enhance your salad.

Making the Dressing

Whisk Together the Dressing Ingredients

Next up is the dressing. In a small bowl, combine all the dressing ingredients: red wine vinegar, lemon juice, tahini, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, and sea salt. Whisk everything together until it’s well combined and emulsified. If you prefer a thicker dressing, feel free to add more tahini. Once it’s ready, refrigerate it until you need it.

Mixing the Salad

Combine the Salad Base Ingredients

Now it’s time to mix everything together. In a large bowl, take your diced celery, apples, dried cranberries, and red onion. Toss all those ingredients together gently to ensure they’re evenly distributed. You want every bite to be a delightful surprise!

Add Dressing and Pecans

Finally, pour the dressing over your salad mixture. Stir thoroughly to coat all the ingredients evenly. Just before you serve it, fold in the glazed pecans for that extra crunch. Now you’re ready to enjoy your homemade Harvest Celery Apple Salad!

Serving Suggestions

This salad makes a wonderful side dish. Try serving it alongside roasted meats like chicken or turkey for a cozy family meal. Alternatively, pair it with some crusty bread for a light lunch. The combination of flavors is sure to please everyone.

Tips for Success

To ensure your salad turns out perfectly, consider these tips: Adjust the amount of onion based on your personal taste. If you want more sweetness, go lighter on the onion, or if you like a tangy bite, add more. Also, using super fresh ingredients is key to elevating the flavors.

Variations

Feeling adventurous? You can easily switch out the pecans for walnuts to introduce a different nutty flavor. If you want a tangy twist, crumble some feta cheese on top of the salad. It will offer a nice contrast to the sweetness of the apples and cranberries.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container. However, the best way to enjoy this salad is fresh—aim to consume it within two days. If you make the salad in advance, keep the dressing separate to prevent sogginess.

Pairing Ideas

For a refreshing drink, pair this salad with a light white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc. It complements the ingredients beautifully. Additionally, it goes wonderfully with roasted vegetable dishes, making your meal options even more endless.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of apples?

Absolutely! Gala or Granny Smith apples can work perfectly and offer a different level of sweetness and tartness.

2. How long will leftovers last?

You can keep leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days.

3. Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes! It’s an excellent option for meal prep. Just remember to store the dressing separately.

4. Can I add protein to this salad?

Definitely! Grilled chicken or chickpeas can provide extra satisfaction for a complete meal.

5. Is it possible to make this salad vegan?

For sure! Just use maple syrup, which is vegan-friendly, and you’re good to go.

With its festive flavors and fresh ingredients, the Harvest Celery Apple Salad truly embodies the spirit of the harvest. Perfect for sharing or enjoying solo, this salad is one you’ll likely come back to year after year. Enjoy it as a vibrant addition to your dining table or make it ahead for the week. It’s a wonderful way to savor the taste of fall!

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