Celery Cucumber Crunch Salad

Name: Celery Cucumber Crunch Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 stalks of celery, chopped; 1 medium cucumber, diced; 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar; 1 teaspoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy Flavor Creations

I love creating refreshing salads that are not only healthy but also bursting with flavor. This Celery Cucumber Crunch Salad is a delightful combination of crisp celery and cool cucumber, making it the perfect side dish for any meal. With a zesty dressing that ties everything together, it’s a dish I always turn to when I need something light yet satisfying. The crunch from the vegetables adds a wonderful texture, making this salad both enjoyable to eat and easy to prepare in just a few minutes!

Created by

Josie Lambert

Last updated on 2026-02-15T06:01:36.430Z

When I first made this Celery Cucumber Crunch Salad, I was actually looking for a lighter side dish to complement a heavier main course. I was pleasantly surprised by how well the freshness of the ingredients balanced the flavors. I've discovered that adding a splash of lemon juice enhances the taste even more, making each bite zing with brightness.

One important tip I learned is to let the salad sit for a few minutes after tossing it. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Since there’s no cooking involved, it’s an ideal recipe for those hot summer days when I want something quick and refreshing without turning on the oven.

Why You'll Love This Salad
Refreshing crunch from fresh vegetables
Zesty dressing that brings it all together
Quick to prepare, perfect for busy days

Understanding the Ingredients

The combination of celery and cucumber not only provides a refreshing crunch but also plays a significant role in the salad's overall texture. Celery adds a distinct, slightly peppery flavor, while cucumber contributes a subtly sweet and cool essence. Both vegetables are hydrating and low in calories, making this salad an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a light, healthy diet. If you want to amplify the crunchiness, consider using Persian cucumbers, which have fewer seeds and a thinner skin than regular cucumbers.

Don’t underestimate the role of fresh parsley in this salad. Not only does it bring a pop of color, but it also enhances the freshness of the other ingredients. Fresh herbs can elevate any dish by adding complexity, so always opt for fresh rather than dried when possible. If you’re in a pinch, dill or cilantro can be substituted for parsley, offering their unique flavors that will still complement the salad beautifully.

Making the Perfect Dressing

For the dressing, I recommend using high-quality olive oil as it provides a rich, fruity base. When whisking the dressing, ensure you do so vigorously until it’s emulsified and slightly glossy; this will help all the flavors integrate seamlessly. Apple cider vinegar brings a tangy punch, and I find that a hint of lemon juice brightens the overall flavor profile. Adjust the acidity to your taste – if you prefer a sharper dressing, a little more vinegar can go a long way.

Salt and pepper are not just afterthoughts; they are essential for bringing out the natural flavors of the vegetables. Start with a pinch of salt and freshly cracked pepper, taste, and adjust accordingly. Be cautious with the salt, particularly if you're using salted olives or other salty ingredients as a variation in the future.

Ingredients

For the Salad

4 stalks of celery, chopped
1 medium cucumber, diced
1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

For the Dressing

3 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Vegetables

In a large bowl, combine chopped celery, diced cucumber, sliced red onion, halved cherry tomatoes, and chopped parsley.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Combine the Salad and Dressing

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine all ingredients. Let it sit for about 5 minutes for flavors to meld.

Pro Tips

Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for extra crunch and color.

Storage Tips

This salad is best served fresh, but if you have leftovers, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, keep in mind that the longer it sits, the soggier the vegetables will become due to moisture from the cucumbers. To retain some crunch, consider storing the dressing separately and mixing it with the salad just before serving.

If you're planning to make this salad ahead of time for a gathering or meal prep, chop the vegetables and store them in the fridge. You can prepare the dressing as well, but combine them only when you're ready to eat. This method helps maintain the salad's crispness and flavor integrity.

Serving Suggestions

This Celery Cucumber Crunch Salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats or fish, providing a refreshing balance to rich flavors. Consider serving it alongside dishes like grilled chicken or salmon, where the zesty dressing can complement the savory elements. Alternatively, it works well as a light lunch option on its own or as a filling addition to a wrap or sandwich.

For a fun twist, you could add other vegetables such as bell peppers or radishes for additional color and crunch, or even include proteins like chickpeas or shredded rotisserie chicken to make it a complete meal. Experimenting with different textures and flavors can keep this salad exciting and versatile for various occasions.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare this salad in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the salad ahead of time, but it's best to add the dressing just before serving to maintain the crunch.

→ What can I substitute for the olive oil?

You can use avocado oil or any neutral oil if you prefer a different flavor.

→ Is this salad vegan?

Yes, all the ingredients in this salad are vegan-friendly!

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but the veggies may lose their crunch.