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Crunchy Apple-Celery Salad with Maple-Dijon Vinaigrette

This quick & easy salad features a crunchy combination of crisp apples, celery, cranberries, and toasted pecans lightly tossed with a homemade Maple-Dijon vinaigrette. The result is a refreshing and satisfying balance of sweet and savory flavors that can be enjoyed by itself or paired with your favorite entrées for a complete meal.
Kitchen Tip: The flavors in this recipe will intensify with time, so you may want to prepare a double (or triple) batch. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for several days. However, be sure to toss the chopped apple with some fresh lemon juice before adding to the salad to minimize browning.
 Note: The images shown here feature Pink Lady apples. If they are unavailable in your area, consider using Fuji, Jazz, or Honey crisp apples instead as they offer a nice crunch and will not brown too quickly.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Course salad
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

Maple-Dijon Salad Vinaigrette

  • 2 tbsp real maple syrup
  • 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tsp Dijon Mustard **For less sweet results, add 1-2 additional teaspoons of Dijon mustard

Salad Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup pecans, roughly chopped, divided
  • 6 large celery stalks, sliced * plus add sliced celery leaves (from stalks), roughly chopped
  • 1 large red apple, chopped
  • 1/4 cup dried cranberries
  • Sea salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tbsp Parmesan cheese, shaved

Instructions
 

  • 1.     Prepare the vinaigrette by adding all ingredients to a salad shaker or jar with a tight-fitting lid. Cover and shake vigorously to combine. Set aside.
    2.     Add chopped pecans to a small dry skillet set over medium heat. Heat for several minutes, stirring occasionally, until toasted. Remove from heat and set aside.
    3.     Add celery, apples, celery leaves, cranberries, and three tablespoons toasted pecans to a large salad bowl. Season with salt and black pepper, to taste. Drizzle the vinaigrette on top and toss to combine.
    4.     To serve, divide the salad onto chilled salad plates and top with remaining toasted pecans and shaved Parmesan cheese. Enjoy!
Keyword apple, salad, vinaigrette