Christmas salad of apple, celery, and walnut

Recipe for Christmas Apple, Celery, and Walnut Salad

The apple, celery, and walnut Christmas salad is an essential classic on many tables during the holidays. Its combination of fresh ingredients provides a sweet flavor and a crunchy texture that complements the main dishes of the Christmas menu. Furthermore, it is a healthy salad and easy to prepare, perfect for those looking for a light and festive side dish.

Preparation time

This recipe is quick and practical for any home kitchen.

• Preparation: 15 minutes
• Cooking: No cooking required
• Total: 15 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Difficulty: Easy

Ingredients

For the salad

• 500 grams of apples (Granny Smith recommended for their tart flavor and firm texture)
• 2 celery stalks, cut into small pieces
• ½ cup of walnuts, lightly chopped
• 1 cup of pineapple in syrup, diced
• ½ cup raisins
• 250 grams of sour cream
• ½ cup of condensed milk
• Juice of 1 lemon (to prevent apples from oxidizing)
• A pinch of salt

If you don't have sour cream, you can replace it with unsweetened natural yogurt, although the texture will be somewhat different and less thick.

Utensils we will use

• Cutting board and knife for cutting fruits and celery
• A large mixing bowl
• Strainer for draining the syrup
• Spoon or spatula for mixing
• Container with lid for refrigerating

Preparation

1. Prepare the fruits and celery

1. Wash and cut the apples. Wash the apples under the tap to remove dirt and residue. You can peel them if you prefer a smoother texture, or leave them with skin for more color and fiber. Cut into medium cubes of approximately 2 cm.
2. Prevent oxidation. Place the apple cubes in a bowl with cold water and lemon juice; this will prevent them from turning brown while you finish preparing the salad.
3. Prepare the celery. Wash and cut the celery stalks into small pieces of approximately 1 cm. Celery provides the essential crunchy and fresh touch in this salad.
4. Chop the pineapple. If using canned pineapple, drain it well to avoid adding excess liquid. Dice into small cubes so it mixes well with the rest of the ingredients.
5. Chop the walnuts. Lightly chop the walnuts to release their aroma without leaving pieces too large that could dominate the texture.

2. Mix the creamy and dry ingredients

1. Prepare the creamy mixture. In a separate bowl, mix the sour cream with the condensed milk and a pinch of salt. This combination balances the sweet flavor and provides creaminess, a fundamental characteristic of this Christmas recipe.
2. Add raisins and walnuts. Incorporate the raisins and walnuts into the creamy mixture, distributing them evenly so that each bite has texture and contrast.

3. Integrate everything

1. Drain the apples. Remove the apples from the lemon water and drain them well to avoid too much moisture that would dilute the mixture.
2. Combine in one bowl. In the large bowl, mix the apples, celery, chopped pineapple, and the creamy mixture with nuts.
3. Mix gently. With a spatula or spoon, mix all ingredients carefully so as not to break the fruit or compromise the texture.
4. Refrigerate. Cover the container with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors integrate and ensures the salad is served well chilled.

To finish and serve

Before serving, check the seasoning and adjust with an extra pinch of salt if necessary to balance the sweetness of the condensed milk and pineapple. Serve the Christmas salad in a nice bowl or individually in glasses, accompanying it with main dishes such as the Christmas smoked ham or side dishes like the Mediterranean vegetable dish. The contrast between its freshness and sweet touch makes it a delicious and refreshing element on any festive table.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 270 kcal
• Proteins: 3 g
• Fats: 14 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 3 g

These values are approximate per serving and may vary depending on the specific ingredients you use.

5 tips for a perfect Christmas salad

Preparing apple, celery, and walnut salad with good results is simple if you follow these practical tips:

• Prevent apples from oxidizing: Place them in lemon water once cut; this will help them maintain their color and freshness.
• Mix the cream with condensed milk and salt to balance flavors: Salt enhances the sweetness without letting it overpower.
• Incorporate the walnuts just before serving: This way they will maintain their crunchy texture and you will prevent them from getting soggy.
• Use firm apples like Granny Smith: Its acidity and texture will make the salad have an interesting contrast with the sweetness of the cream.
• Let the salad rest in refrigeration for at least 30 minutes: This enhances the union of flavors without the fruit losing texture.

When is it ideal to enjoy the Christmas apple, celery, and walnut salad?

The Christmas salad it is ideal for Christmas dinner but also works for other family celebrations during winter, as its fresh and sweet touch perfectly complements dishes classic Christmas dishes like turkey or heavier stews. Its simple preparation makes it a practical dish for large gatherings where variety without complications is sought. Furthermore, its combination of nuts and fresh fruit is nutritious and pleasant for all tastes.

Comparison table: Christmas apple, celery, and walnut salad and similar recipes

Frequently asked questions about Christmas salad

Share your experience with the Christmas salad

After preparing this traditional recipe, share how your salad turned out, if you made variations with other nuts or fruits, and how you enjoyed it at your celebration. Cooking is an experience for learning and sharing, so your opinion and advice will be welcome in the community.

Culinary glossary of the Christmas salad

• Oxidation: Reaction that occurs when cut fruit turns brown upon contact with air.
• Sour cream: Slightly fermented and acidic dairy product, similar to fresh cream.
• Syrup: Sweet liquid where canned or jarred fruits are preserved.
• Crunchy texture: Sensation offered by celery and walnuts, providing contrast to the creaminess.
• Creamy mixture: Combination of sour cream, condensed milk and other ingredients that cover the fruits.