Celery Cucumber Crunch Salad

Name: Celery Cucumber Crunch Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 stalks of celery, diced; 1 large cucumber, diced; 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Fresh Balance Kitchen

I absolutely love this Celery Cucumber Crunch Salad! It’s refreshing, full of textures, and provides a perfect balance of crunch that can brighten any meal. Whenever I toss this salad together, I know I’m indulging in something both simple and nutritious. The crisp bites of celery and cucumber create a delightful contrast, enhanced by a zesty dressing that brings it all together. Perfect for hot days or as a side during gatherings, this salad has become a staple in my kitchen.

Created by

Rowan Tate

Last updated on 2026-02-10T19:05:37.099Z

When I first made this salad, I was looking for something quick yet packed with flavor. What I found was a delightful mix of textures that made it a family favorite. The combination of celery's crispness with the coolness of cucumbers is simply unbeatable and keeps the salad light.

Moreover, I discovered that letting it sit for even a few minutes before serving lets the flavors meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste. A sprinkle of fresh herbs or a hint of lemon zest can elevate this salad even more, making it versatile for any occasion!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Crisp, refreshing combination of celery and cucumber.
Easy to prepare with no cooking required.
Versatile dressing options to suit your taste.

Perfecting Your Crunch

The combination of celery and cucumber is what sets this salad apart. Celery brings a robust flavor and a satisfying crunch, while cucumbers contribute a refreshing juiciness that balances the overall taste. When selecting your ingredients, look for firm and crisp vegetables to ensure the desired texture. A quick tip: for an even crunchier cucumber, peel it partially; this can enhance both the presentation and the mouthfeel of the salad.

To amplify the flavor profile, consider letting the salad sit for about 15 minutes after tossing with the dressing. This short rest allows the ingredients to marinate slightly without losing their freshness. However, be cautious not to let it sit too long, as the moisture from the cucumbers can make the salad watery if left for over 30 minutes.

Crafting the Dressing

A well-balanced dressing is crucial for this salad. The apple cider vinegar not only adds tang but also has health benefits, making it a great choice for flavor. If you're looking to adjust the acidity, try substituting lemon juice for the vinegar; this brightens the flavors while giving a wonderful twist. Additionally, adjusting the amount of Dijon mustard can provide a little extra kick if you prefer a spicier dressing.

When whisking your dressing, it should achieve a smooth and glossy finish. This ensures all the ingredients are well combined and prevents separation when served. For a creamier consistency, consider adding a tablespoon of Greek yogurt or mayonnaise to the dressing, but keep in mind that this will alter the salad's lightness slightly.

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

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

Dressing Ingredients

3 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Vegetables

In a large bowl, combine the diced celery, cucumber, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and parsley. Toss gently to mix.

Make the Dressing

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Combine and Serve

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to coat all the ingredients evenly. Serve immediately or chill for later!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider tossing in some feta cheese or olives. You can also swap the dressing ingredients to create a creamy version by adding yogurt or mayonnaise!

Storing and Serving

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored in the refrigerator for about 24 hours. Make sure to keep the dressing separate until you're ready to serve; this will help maintain the crispness of the vegetables. If the salad does get watery over time, simply drain off excess liquid before serving and give it a gentle toss.

When it comes to serving, this salad is incredibly versatile. It pairs beautifully with grilled proteins like chicken or fish, making it an ideal side for summer barbecues. For a heartier meal, you could also mix in cooked quinoa or chickpeas to add protein and make it a stand-alone dish.

Variations to Try

Feel free to get creative with ingredients! Swap in bell peppers or radishes for extra crunch and color. Fresh herbs such as dill or basil can easily be integrated into your salad for additional layers of flavor. If you're looking for a bit of sweetness, adding sliced strawberries or diced apples can provide a delightful contrast to the savory elements.

For those who enjoy a bit of spice, consider incorporating sliced jalapeños or adding a dash of hot sauce to your dressing. This not only elevates the heat but also complements the coolness of the cucumbers beautifully, resulting in a unique flavor experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare this salad in advance?

Yes, however, it's best to add the dressing just before serving to keep the vegetables crisp.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to include bell peppers, radishes, or any fresh herbs you like for extra flavor!

→ How long will this salad last in the fridge?

The salad can last up to 2 days in the refrigerator, but it's best enjoyed fresh.

→ Is this salad vegan?

Yes, all the ingredients used are plant-based and suitable for a vegan diet.