Celery salad

Fresh and crunchy celery salad with apples and vegetables - an explosion of flavors and textures

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooling time: 30 minutes
Total: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4

In a busy world where time seems to be getting shorter, a fresh, quick, and nutrient-rich salad can transform an ordinary meal into a special culinary experience. The salad with celery, carrots, radishes, and apples is perfect for adding a touch of freshness and color to your table. This recipe is not only simple but also an excellent nutritional choice, being rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber.

The history of raw salads is fascinating, with deep roots in the culinary traditions of many cultures. These dishes have been appreciated over time for their health benefits and versatility. Whether served as an appetizer, side dish, or even as a main course, salads are always a wise choice.

Ingredients:

- 1 medium celery (approximately 300 g)
- 3 carrots
- 1 radish
- 4 apples (preferably tart for a balanced taste)
- 1-2 tablespoons of salt (to taste)
- 3-4 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Freshly ground pepper (optional, to taste)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by peeling the celery, carrots, radish, and apples. Use a sharp knife to remove the skin, but remember that in some cases, the skin contains many vitamins. If you prefer, you can leave the skin on the apples.

2. Washing and grating: Once the ingredients are cleaned, rinse them well under cold water to remove impurities. Use a small grater to grate the celery, carrots, radish, and apples. This step will help create a crunchy texture and allow the ingredients to better absorb the dressing.

3. Making the dressing: In a small plate or bowl, mix the salt, lemon juice, olive oil, and, if you like, freshly ground pepper. This simple dressing will add a vibrant taste to your salad and highlight the flavors of the vegetables and fruits.

4. Mixing the salad: In a large bowl, combine all the grated vegetables and apples. Pour the dressing over the vegetable mixture and mix well with a spatula or your hands to ensure that each strip of vegetable is evenly coated with dressing.

5. Cooling: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for about 30 minutes. This step is essential as it allows the flavors to meld and makes the salad even more refreshing.

6. Serving: After the salad has chilled, it is ready to serve. You can place it on a beautiful platter or in individual bowls. A personal suggestion is to add some toasted nuts or pumpkin seeds for an extra crunch and nutrients.

Nutritional benefits

This salad is an excellent choice for a balanced diet. Celery is high in water and low in calories, making it ideal for diets. Carrots are an excellent source of beta-carotene, which is essential for eye health. Apples add fiber and vitamins, while radishes provide a spicy and refreshing note, being rich in antioxidants.

In total, a serving of salad has approximately 150-200 calories, depending on the amount of oil used. This is a healthy and filling choice, perfect for lunch or dinner.

Possible variations

This recipe is extremely versatile. You can experiment with different ingredients, adding for example:

- Nuts or seeds: for an increased intake of proteins and healthy fats.
- Greek yogurt: instead of oil, for a creamy dressing rich in calcium.
- Fresh thyme or parsley: for an aromatic and fresh taste.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use other types of apples? Of course! Sweet or green apples are excellent, but choosing a tart variety will add a pleasant contrast.
- Can I prepare the salad a day in advance? It is recommended to prepare it a few hours before serving, but it is better to consume it fresh to maintain the crunchy texture.
- Is the salad vegan? Absolutely! This recipe contains no animal-derived ingredients, making it perfect for vegans and vegetarians.

Combine this salad with a glass of fresh lemonade or iced tea to create a balanced and refreshing meal. The vibrant taste of the salad will bring a treat to your palate and make every meal a true celebration of freshness.

In conclusion, the celery salad with apples and vegetables is not only a simple recipe but also a delicious way to incorporate more vegetables and fruits into your diet. So, don't hesitate to try this recipe, enjoy every bite, and surprise your family with a meal full of color and health. Enjoy your meal!