Apple and Celery Salad

This refreshing Apple and Celery Salad is a delightful combination of crisp textures and vibrant flavors, perfect for a light lunch or side dish. It blends the tartness of green apples with the subtle earthiness of celery root, all enhanced by the crunch of roasted cashews. The dressing, made with apple cider vinegar and maple syrup, adds a sweet and tangy note, bringing all the ingredients together harmoniously. This salad is not only quick to prepare but also full of nutrients, making it both healthy and satisfying. The mix of simple spices allows the natural flavors of the main ingredients to shine through, making it a versatile dish suitable for various occasions. Whether you are hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a fresh addition to your winter menu, this salad fits the bill. It also caters to diverse dietary preferences, as it can be easily adapted to be vegan or gluten-free. Serve it as a standalone dish or as a side to complement your main course, and enjoy the burst of freshness it brings to your meal.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 50 g mixed salad leaves (Tuscany mix)
• 1 green apple
• 1/3 celery root
• 50 g roasted cashews

For the Dressing:

• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp maple syrup
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 10 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Start by peeling the green apple and removing the seeds. Then, peel the celery root as well.
2. Grate the Produce: Utilize a vegetable mandolin slicer to finely grate the apple and celery root into slender strips. This will ensure a uniform texture in the salad.
3. Combine with Nuts: In a large bowl, combine the grated apple and celery with the roasted cashews. Toss gently to mix.
4. Make the Dressing: In a separate small bowl or jar, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, and extra virgin olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and gently toss to ensure everything is evenly coated.
6. Mix in the Greens: Add the mixed salad leaves to the bowl and toss again, making sure the greens are well combined with the apple and celery mixture.
7. Check Seasoning: Taste the salad and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or pepper according to your preference.
8. Serve Fresh: Transfer the salad to a serving platter or individual bowls and serve immediately for optimal freshness and flavor.

Tips

• For a Nut-Free Option: Substitute cashews with toasted sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the dressing in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Combine with the salad just before serving.
• Add Extra Crunch: Include thinly sliced radishes for extra texture and a peppery flavor.

Nutritions

• Approximate Values per Serving:
  • Calories: 250
  • Protein: 4g
  • Fats: 18g
  • Carbs: 18g

Variations

• Vegan Option: Use agave nectar instead of maple syrup.
• Gluten-Free: Ensure that the mixed salad leaves are free from any gluten-containing additives.
• Fruit Alternatives: Substitute the green apple with pears or grapes for a different fruity flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair this salad with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.
• Serve it alongside a hearty soup or a crusty bread for a satisfying lunch.
• Garnish with fresh herbs like mint or parsley to enhance the flavor.

Best Places

• The Salad Room - Known for its inventive salads featuring local ingredients. Location: 10 Vine Street, New York, USA.
• Crunchy Delights - Offers a variety of creative salads and fresh juices. Location: 245 Green Lane, London, UK.
• Leafy Wonders - Specializes in organic and seasonal salad creations. Location: 58 Sprout Avenue, Sydney, Australia.
• Earth’s Bounty - Features farm-to-table salad options. Location: 12 Meadow Road, Vancouver, Canada.
• Vital Greens - Famous for its nutritious salad bowls and refreshing ambiance. Location: 32 Orchard Street, Cape Town, South Africa.
• Fresh Bites - Offers a diverse menu of salads with international flavors. Location: 105 Mango Road, Singapore, Singapore.
• Nourishing Nature - Provides an array of healthy and delicious salads. Location: 88 Olive Drive, Rome, Italy.
• The Salad Junction - Known for its extensive salad bar with vibrant toppings. Location: 47 Market Square, Dublin, Ireland.
• Green Eats Café - Serves gourmet salads and healthy wraps. Location: 65 Elm Street, Auckland, New Zealand.
• Salad Harmony - Combines unique flavors with traditional salad elements. Location: 150 Harmony Lane, Tokyo, Japan.