Refreshing Apple Walnut Celery Salad

This salad depends on fresh texture more than complex seasoning. Crisp apple and celery sit against soft red leaf lettuce, while walnuts bring a deeper crunch and a mild richness.

Lemon is the dominant dressing flavor. Its acidity sharpens the apples and keeps the finished salad bright; olive oil is used lightly so the ingredients stay clean rather than glossy and heavy.

Cut the apples shortly before serving and leave the peel on for color and texture. Once dressed, toss only enough to coat the leaves and bring the components together.

Ingredients

• 6 cups red leaf lettuce, shredded
• 2 red apples, unpeeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
• 6 tablespoons lemon juice
• 4 tablespoons olive oil

Method

Combine the lettuce, apples, celery and walnuts in a medium bowl. Drizzle with lemon juice and olive oil, then toss gently until evenly coated. Serve immediately while the apples and celery are still crisp.