Creamy Apple Walnut Fruit Salad: Simple Refreshment (Print Version)
Creamy Apple Walnut Fruit Salad brings crisp apples, crunchy walnuts, and a sweet-tangy dressing. A refreshing, easy-to-make side or light dessert.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 0 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
Dietary: Vegetarian
# Ingredients:
→ Crisp Apple Base
01 -
4 crisp apples (like Honeycrisp or Fuji), cored and chopped
02 -
2 stalks celery, finely chopped
→ Creamy Dressing
03 -
1/2 cup full-fat mayonnaise
04 -
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
05 -
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
06 -
1-2 tablespoons milk or cream
→ Crunchy Add-ins
07 -
1/2 cup walnuts, chopped (lightly toasted, optional)
# Instructions:
01 -
First things first, let's get those apples ready for your Creamy Apple Walnut Fruit Salad. Wash them really well, then core and chop them into bite-sized pieces. I usually go for about half-inch cubes, but honestly, whatever size you like is fine. Just try to keep them somewhat uniform so every bite is balanced. I've definitely rushed this step before, ending up with huge chunks and tiny slivers, and it just doesn't feel right, you know? Put them in a big bowl, ready for their creamy bath.
02 -
Next up, grab your celery. Wash it, trim the ends, and chop it finely. I like a really small dice here so it blends in but still provides that lovely crunch. Then, move on to your walnuts. Give them a good chop, not too fine, we want texture! If you're feeling fancy, give those walnuts a quick toast in a dry pan for a few minutes; it really brings out their nutty flavor. I always forget to do this, and then I'm like, 'oops, next time!'
03 -
Now for the heart of our Creamy Apple Walnut Fruit Salad: the dressing! In a separate, medium-sized bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sugar, and fresh lemon juice. Stir it until the sugar dissolves and everything is beautifully combined. This is where you can taste and adjust; if your apples are super sweet, maybe a little less sugar. If your lemon is extra zesty, perhaps a tiny bit more mayo. I've definitely made it too sweet once, and had to add an extra squeeze of lemon. It's all about balance!
04 -
Once your dressing base is ready, it might be a little thick. That's where a splash of milk or cream comes in. Add it in gradually, whisking constantly, until the dressing reaches a pourable, but still creamy, consistency. You're looking for something that will coat the apples without being gloopy or too runny. I always start with just a tablespoon and add more if needed. Trust your gut here, you'll know when it's just right.
05 -
Time to bring it all together for your Creamy Apple Walnut Fruit Salad! Pour that lovely creamy dressing over your chopped apples, celery, and walnuts in the large bowl. Using a spatula or a large spoon, gently fold everything together until all the fruit and nuts are evenly coated. Be gentle so you don't bruise the apples too much. I usually end up with a bit of dressing on the counter, honestly, it's just part of the process in my kitchen!
06 -
This is the hardest part: waiting! Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and pop it into the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld and the apples to soak up some of that delicious dressing. It makes a huge difference, trust me. When it's time to serve, give it another gentle stir and enjoy your refreshing Creamy Apple Walnut Fruit Salad! It should look vibrant, smell fresh, and taste like pure, sweet-tangy comfort.
# Notes:
01 -
Always use crisp apples for the best texture; mealy ones are a no-go.
02 -
Store any leftovers in an airtight container to keep apples from browning.
03 -
If you're out of walnuts, pecans or slivered almonds make decent substitutes.
04 -
Serve chilled for the ultimate refreshing experience, especially on a warm day.
# Equipment Needed:
01 -
Large bowl
02 -
whisk
03 -
sharp knife
04 -
cutting board
# Nutrition (Per Serving):
Calories: 300
Total Fat: 20g
Total Carbohydrate: 25g
Protein: 5g