Apple and Celery Salad with Peanuts

Introduction

History

The concept of combining fruits and vegetables in salads has been around for centuries, but the Apple and Celery Salad with Peanuts is a relatively modern creation. It draws inspiration from the classic Waldorf Salad, which originated in New York City at the Waldorf Hotel in the late 19th century. Over the years, chefs and home cooks alike have experimented with various ingredients to create their own versions. This particular recipe, with its addition of peanuts, offers a unique twist on the traditional fruit and vegetable salad, providing a satisfying crunch and flavor contrast.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Variations

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best flavor and texture, use crisp, fresh apples and celery. The apples should be julienned just before preparing the salad to prevent browning. Adding the lemon juice to the apples quickly will also help keep them from discoloring. For the dressing, make sure to emulsify the lemon juice and olive oil properly to create a smooth and creamy consistency. Lastly, adding the peanuts just before serving maintains their crunch.

Serving Suggestions

This salad can be served as a standalone light lunch or as a side dish with grilled chicken, fish, or a vegetarian protein like tofu. It's also perfect for serving at picnics and potlucks.

Cooking Techniques

The key technique in this recipe is emulsifying the dressing to ensure a smooth and creamy consistency. This involves slowly whisking the olive oil into the lemon juice and mustard mixture until fully combined.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're out of Dijon mustard, honey mustard makes a suitable substitute. Almonds or cashews can replace peanuts for those with allergies. For a different flavor profile, apple cider vinegar can be used in place of lemon juice.

Make Ahead Tips

This salad can be prepared a few hours in advance, with the exception of adding the peanuts. Store it in the refrigerator and add the peanuts just before serving to maintain their crunch.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the salad in a large, clear bowl to showcase the vibrant colors of the ingredients. Garnish with extra chopped parsley and a few whole peanuts for an elegant finish.

Pairing Recommendations

This salad pairs beautifully with white wines such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, which complement the crispness of the apples and celery. For a non-alcoholic option, try a sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

This salad is best enjoyed fresh and does not require reheating. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Note that the apples may brown and the peanuts may soften over time.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of this salad contains approximately 150-200 calories, making it a light and nutritious option for those monitoring their calorie intake.

Carbohydrates

This salad is a good source of carbohydrates, primarily from the apples. A serving contains approximately 20-25 grams of carbohydrates, providing energy for your body. The fiber content from the apples and celery also aids in digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness.

Fats

The olive oil and peanuts contribute healthy fats to the salad. A serving contains about 10-15 grams of fat, most of which are monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. These fats are beneficial for heart health and can help lower bad cholesterol levels.

Proteins

While not high in protein, this salad provides a modest amount from the peanuts. Each serving contains about 4-6 grams of protein. For a higher protein content, consider adding grilled chicken or tofu.

Vitamins and minerals

This salad is rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly Vitamin C from the apples and lemon juice, and Vitamin K from the parsley. It also provides a good amount of potassium and dietary fiber, which are essential for maintaining healthy blood pressure and digestive health.

Alergens

The primary allergen in this recipe is peanuts. Individuals with a peanut allergy should omit this ingredient or substitute it with a non-allergenic option like sunflower seeds.

Summary

Overall, the Apple and Celery Salad with Peanuts is a nutritious dish that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, healthy fats, and proteins, along with essential vitamins and minerals. It's a low-calorie option suitable for a variety of dietary needs.

Summary

The Apple and Celery Salad with Peanuts is a delightful and nutritious dish that combines the sweet and tart flavors of apples with the crispness of celery and the nutty crunch of peanuts. It's easy to make, versatile, and perfect for a variety of occasions. Whether you're looking for a light lunch, a side dish, or a healthy snack, this salad is sure to please.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a cherished one. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret for a cozy lunch. As we sat down at her kitchen table, she brought out a large bowl filled with a vibrant mix of apples, celery, and peanuts. She told me she had just whipped up this simple salad, and I was immediately intrigued by the unique combination of ingredients.

Margaret explained that she had learned this recipe from her grandmother, who had passed it down through the generations. She said that the crisp apples, crunchy celery, and salty peanuts created a perfect balance of flavors and textures. I took a bite and was instantly hooked. The sweetness of the apples paired perfectly with the savory peanuts, and the celery added a refreshing crunch to each bite.

I begged Margaret for the recipe, and she graciously shared it with me. I scribbled down the ingredients and instructions on a scrap of paper, knowing that this salad would become a staple in my own kitchen. As I ate my second helping of the delicious salad, I knew that this recipe would hold a special place in my heart for years to come.

When I returned home, I wasted no time in gathering the ingredients to make the Apple and Celery Salad with Peanuts. I carefully chopped the apples and celery, making sure to dice them into bite-sized pieces. I then tossed them together in a bowl with a handful of roasted peanuts, which added a delightful crunch to the salad.

Next, I whipped up a simple dressing of apple cider vinegar, honey, and a pinch of salt. I drizzled the dressing over the salad, gently tossing everything together to ensure that each ingredient was coated in the sweet and tangy mixture. The aroma that wafted from the bowl was simply mouthwatering.

As I took my first bite of the salad, I was transported back to Margaret's kitchen, where I had first experienced this delightful dish. The combination of flavors was just as delicious as I remembered, and I savored each and every bite. The sweetness of the apples, the crunch of the celery, and the saltiness of the peanuts all worked together harmoniously to create a truly unforgettable salad.

Over the years, I have made this Apple and Celery Salad with Peanuts countless times for family gatherings, potlucks, and even just for myself on a lazy Sunday afternoon. Each time I prepare it, I think of Margaret and her grandmother, who passed down this wonderful recipe to me. It has become a beloved tradition in my own family, and I know that it will continue to be passed down for generations to come.

As I sit here now, reminiscing about that fateful day when I first discovered this recipe, I am filled with gratitude for the wonderful friends and family who have enriched my life with their culinary creations. The Apple and Celery Salad with Peanuts will always hold a special place in my heart, reminding me of the joy that can be found in a simple, delicious dish shared with loved ones. And for that, I am truly grateful.

Categories

| Apple Recipes | Liberian Recipes | Liberian Salads | Mustard Seed Recipes |

Recipes with the same ingredients