Celery Salad With Cucumber

Name: Celery Salad With Cucumber
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 stalks of celery, chopped; 1 medium cucumber, diced; 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon honey; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Smart Food

I absolutely love making this Celery Salad With Cucumber, as it brings a refreshing crunch and a burst of flavors to any meal. The combination of crispy celery and cool cucumber is not only delicious but also incredibly healthy. It’s perfect for warm days, picnics, or as a vibrant side dish for dinner. In just a few minutes, I can whip up this salad, and it always impresses my guests. Plus, the addition of a zesty dressing elevates it to a whole new level of tastiness!

Created by

Ivy Sanderson

Last updated on 2026-02-01T21:19:36.509Z

When I first created this Celery Salad With Cucumber, I wanted to showcase fresh ingredients while keeping it simple. I experimented with different dressings, and I found that a blend of olive oil, lemon juice, and a touch of honey perfectly complements the crunch of the vegetables. This balance of flavors really enhances the natural sweetness of the celery and cucumber.

One little tip I've learned is to let the salad sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the dressing to soak into the veggies, intensifying the flavors and giving every bite a delightful zing. Trust me, it makes a world of difference!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Crisp and refreshing ingredients that are packed with nutrients
Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy days
Versatile salad that pairs well with any main dish

      

The Balance of Flavors

This Celery Salad With Cucumber is all about balancing textures and flavors. The crunch of the celery pairs beautifully with the softness of the cucumber, while the red onion adds a touch of sharpness. When combined with the bright acidity of lemon juice and the sweetness of honey, the salad achieves a delightful equilibrium. I recommend using a fresh cucumber as it contributes a cool, crisp bite that enhances the overall freshness of the dish.

It's important to note that using good quality olive oil elevates the flavor of the dressing. A robust, fruity olive oil will add depth to the salad and meld well with the lemon juice and honey. When whisking the dressing, aim for a smooth consistency. If it feels too thin, simply add a little more olive oil to thicken it. This consistency will help the dressing cling nicely to the salad ingredients.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This salad is wonderfully versatile for meal prep. You can chop the vegetables in advance and store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just make sure to keep the dressing in its own container to prevent the salad from becoming soggy. When ready to serve, simply mix the ingredients and toss with the dressing. I find that the flavors blend even more after sitting together for a short while, enhancing the taste.

If you're planning to enjoy leftovers, consider adding the dressing just before eating to maintain the salad's crunchy texture. Celery and cucumber can lose their crispness over time, so keeping them un-dressed is key. If you have some extra ingredients like feta cheese or cherry tomatoes, you can also add them for variation on the second day, giving the dish a fresh twist!

Ingredients

Start your refreshing salad by gathering these delicious ingredients!

Ingredients

4 stalks of celery, chopped
1 medium cucumber, diced
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon honey
Salt and pepper to taste

Now that you have all the ingredients ready, it's time to assemble this delightful salad!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Celery Salad With Cucumber.

Prepare the Vegetables

In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped celery, diced cucumber, red onion, and parsley. Toss gently to mix the vegetables evenly.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Combine and Serve

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything together until the ingredients are well coated. Let it sit for about 10 minutes before serving for the best flavor.

Your Celery Salad With Cucumber is now ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For an extra crunch, consider adding some chopped walnuts or sunflower seeds. Additionally, you can substitute lime juice for lemon juice for a different zesty flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

While this salad shines with celery and cucumber, you can easily customize it based on what you have on hand. If you're out of celery, try using chopped bell peppers for crunch or even shredded carrots for a hint of sweetness. As for cucumbers, consider using diced zucchini, which offers a similar texture when raw. Just make sure to remove excess moisture by salting them lightly before adding them to the salad.

If you're looking for a different flavor profile, swap out the honey with maple syrup for a vegan option. Alternatively, you can use agave nectar or even a splash of balsamic vinegar in place of lemon juice, which adds a unique twist to the dressing while keeping it vibrant. Just remember to add these ingredients gradually and taste as you go to achieve the perfect balance.

Serving Suggestions

This salad pairs wonderfully with a wide variety of main dishes. It's a great accompaniment for grilled chicken, fish tacos, or even barbecued tofu. The bright flavors of the salad cut through richer dishes, adding a refreshing contrast. For a more substantial meal, consider tossing in some cooked quinoa or chickpeas to make it heartier, transforming it into a light lunch or dinner option.

For a beautiful presentation, serve the salad in a large bowl lined with leafy greens, such as arugula or spinach. This not only elevates the visual appeal but also adds another layer of flavor. Garnishing with additional fresh parsley or dill can also enhance its aroma, making it a feast for both the eyes and palate at your next gathering.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the vegetables and dressing separately ahead of time. Combine them just before serving for the best freshness.

→ Is this salad suitable for a vegan diet?

Absolutely! It contains only plant-based ingredients, making it perfect for vegans.

→ How long does this salad last in the refrigerator?

This salad is best eaten fresh, but it can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

→ What other ingredients can I add to this salad?

Feel free to customize your salad by adding ingredients like bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or even chickpeas for added texture and flavor.