Zesty Raw Apple Berry Crunch Salad
This vibrant Zesty Raw Apple Berry Crunch Salad combines crisp, tart apples with the refreshing crunch of celery and the sweetness of fresh berries, making it a delightful and nutritious dish. Sourced primarily from local farms, this salad highlights the best of seasonal produce, featuring varieties like Goldrush, Jonafree, or Calville Blanc apples. For an extra fruity twist, you're welcome to substitute the suggested berries with other seasonal favorites like raspberries, strawberries, or boysenberries. Topped with raw walnuts for added texture and drizzled with a zesty lemon dressing, this salad is perfect as a light meal, snack, or a side dish during picnics and gatherings. Enjoy the burst of flavors with every bite, all while keeping it vegan and healthy!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Tart apples
2 medium (Diced (peel on if preferred))
Celery
1 cup (Thinly sliced (plus a few leaves for garnish))
Fresh currants or blueberries
1/2 cup (Rinsed and ready to use)
Raw walnuts or almonds
2-3 tablespoons (Chopped or left whole)
Fresh lemon juice
2-3 tablespoons (Juiced)
Lemon zest
1 teaspoon (Zested)
Sugar or sugar substitute
to taste (Optional)
Pure vanilla extract
1/8 teaspoon (Liquid)
Instructions
1
In a large bowl, combine the diced apples, sliced celery, and your choice of fresh currants or blueberries.
2
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, sugar (or sugar substitute), and pure vanilla extract until well blended.
3
Pour the dressing over the apple and celery mixture and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
4
Allow the salad to sit for a few minutes to let the flavors meld together.
5
Just before serving, sprinkle the raw walnuts on top for an added crunch.
6
This salad can be served immediately or if you prefer, cover it and chill in the refrigerator for an hour for a refreshing cold option.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Zesty Raw Apple Berry Crunch Salad?
It is a vibrant, nutritious salad made with tart apples, celery, fresh berries, and raw walnuts, topped with a zesty lemon dressing.
Is this salad recipe vegan?
Yes, the recipe uses plant-based ingredients and is entirely vegan.
Is the Zesty Raw Apple Berry Crunch Salad gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free.
What types of apples are recommended for this recipe?
Tart varieties such as Goldrush, Jonafree, or Calville Blanc are recommended for the best flavor profile.
Do I need to peel the apples?
Peeling is optional; you can leave the skin on for extra color, texture, and fiber.
Can I use different berries in this salad?
Yes, you can substitute currants or blueberries with raspberries, strawberries, or boysenberries.
What makes the dressing zesty?
The combination of fresh lemon juice and one teaspoon of lemon zest provides the zesty flavor.
Is there a sugar-free option for the dressing?
Yes, you can use a sugar substitute or omit the sweetener entirely to suit your dietary needs.
Can I use almonds instead of walnuts?
Absolutely, the recipe suggests raw walnuts or almonds as a crunchy topping.
What is the best way to prepare the celery?
The celery should be thinly sliced, and you can save a few leaves for use as a garnish.
Does the recipe include vanilla?
Yes, it calls for 1/8 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract in the dressing for a subtle depth of flavor.
How long does it take to prepare this salad?
It is an easy, quick recipe that involves simple dicing, whisking, and tossing.
Should the salad be served immediately?
It can be served immediately, but letting it sit for a few minutes allows the flavors to meld together.
Can I serve this salad cold?
Yes, you can cover and chill it in the refrigerator for one hour for a refreshing cold option.
When should I add the walnuts?
Sprinkle the raw walnuts on top just before serving to ensure they maintain their crunch.
Is this salad suitable for picnics?
Yes, its refreshing nature and sturdy ingredients like apples and celery make it ideal for gatherings and picnics.
What is the texture of this salad?
It has a very crunchy texture due to the fresh apples, celery, and raw nuts.
Can I use local ingredients for this recipe?
Yes, the recipe highlights seasonal produce often found at local farms.
Is the salad considered raw?
Yes, the ingredients are uncooked, maintaining their raw nutritional profile.
How much lemon juice is required?
The recipe calls for 2 to 3 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice.
What size should the apple pieces be?
The apples should be diced into medium-sized pieces.
Can I add other fruits?
While the recipe focuses on apples and berries, you can certainly experiment with other seasonal fruits.
Is this a healthy snack choice?
Yes, it is low in fat, contains no cholesterol, and is filled with fresh fruit and fiber.
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best 'zesty' flavor and to use the zest.
How many apples do I need?
You will need two medium-sized tart apples.
Can I toast the walnuts?
The recipe specifies raw walnuts to keep it a raw dish, but you can toast them if you prefer a smoky flavor.
What bowl should I use for mixing?
A large bowl is best for combining the fruit and celery, and a small bowl for whisking the dressing.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, the sweet and crunchy components generally appeal to children.
How do I keep the apples from browning?
The lemon juice in the dressing naturally helps prevent the diced apples from oxidizing and browning.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can easily double the ingredients to serve a larger group at a party or event.