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Celery Chopped Salad with Apricots, Gorgonzola, and Pecans

Crispy Celery Chopped Salad with Apricots & Gorgonzola Bliss

This Celery Chopped Salad with Apricots, Gorgonzola, and Pecans is a refreshing dish that delights with creamy and crunchy textures.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 4 stalks Celery Substitution: Swap with rhubarb for a hint of tartness.
  • 1 cup Pecans Tip: Always toast right before using for the best texture.
  • 1 cup Dried Apricots Substitution: Dried cherries or cranberries can work well.
  • 4 oz Gorgonzola Cheese Substitution: Use goat cheese or feta for a milder flavor.
  • 1 medium Shallot
  • 1 cup Fresh Parsley For garnish.
For the Dressing
  • 3 tbsp Lemon Juice
  • 2 tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar
  • 4 tbsp Extra-Virgin Olive Oil
  • 1/4 tsp Red Pepper Flakes Optional.
  • to taste Kosher Salt
  • to taste Fresh Cracked Black Pepper

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • mixing bowl
  • salad tongs

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Begin by thinly slicing the celery stalks on a bias. Soak limp slices in ice water for about 10 minutes to crisp them up, then drain well.
  2. In a dry skillet over medium heat, add the pecans and toast them for about 2-4 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant and lightly golden. Allow to cool.
  3. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the celery, diced shallot, toasted pecans, chopped dried apricots, and crumbled Gorgonzola. Add lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
  4. Gently toss all the ingredients together until evenly coated with the dressing. Ensure the Gorgonzola is slightly broken up but well distributed.
  5. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the salad before serving. Enjoy chilled or store in the fridge; add pecans just before serving.

Notes

Perfect as a standalone dish or as a vibrant side, this salad is best prepared fresh to maintain crunchiness and flavor.