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, chopped; 1 large cucumber, diced; 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Juice of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Fresh Kitchen Favorites

I love putting together refreshing salads that highlight the fresh ingredients of the season, and this Celery Cucumber Crunch Salad has quickly become a favorite of mine. The crisp textures of celery and cucumber combined with a zesty dressing create a vibrant dish that’s perfect for warm weather. We often serve it as a side for grilled meats or enjoy it on its own for a light lunch. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe—it’s easy to make and full of flavors that will delight your taste buds!

Created by

Stella Cameron

Last updated on 2026-02-10T23:01:36.572Z

When I first made the Celery Cucumber Crunch Salad for a summer picnic, I was blown away by how simple yet delicious it turned out. The crunchiness of the vegetables is enhanced by a tangy dressing made with lemon juice and olive oil. I made sure to use fresh herbs, which really elevate the dish’s flavor profile. This salad has become a staple in our home, especially when we want a quick, healthy option.

Throughout my testing, I learned that letting the salad sit for a few minutes helps the flavors meld beautifully. If you're planning to serve it for a gathering, make it a bit ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just give it a good toss before serving, and you’re set for a refreshing dish everyone will enjoy!

Why You'll Love This Salad
The delightful crunch of fresh veggies in every bite
Light and refreshing, perfect for summer days
Quick to prepare, making it a great last-minute dish

The Role of Fresh Ingredients

The success of this Celery Cucumber Crunch Salad lies in the freshness of its ingredients. Celery provides a satisfying crunch, which is vital for texture, while cucumber adds a refreshing juiciness that balances the salad. When choosing cucumbers, opt for English cucumbers if possible, as they have fewer seeds and a thinner skin, making them easier to digest. Additionally, using organic produce can enhance flavor and ensure that you’re getting ingredients free from harmful pesticides.

Red onion contributes not only a pop of color but also a subtle sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the crunchiness of the cucumbers and celery. To mellow its sharpness, soak the sliced onion in ice-cold water for about 10 minutes before adding it to the salad; this simple step enhances the overall flavor and makes it more palatable for those sensitive to raw onion.

Dressing Techniques

The dressing for this salad is light and zesty, which complements the fresh vegetables beautifully. For the best results, whisk together the olive oil and lemon juice in a bowl until the mixture is glossy and well combined. Make sure to taste the dressing before adding it to the salad; adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary. A good dressing should enhance the salad, not overpower it, so aim for a balanced flavor profile.

If you prefer an herby kick, consider adding a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the dressing. This not only enhances the flavor but also helps emulsify the ingredients better. For a creamier dressing, you can stir in a dollop of Greek yogurt, which gives the salad a richer texture while keeping it light and refreshing.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare it a few hours in advance. Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, keep the dressing separate until just before serving to ensure the vegetables stay crisp. If you find the salad has lost some of its crunch after storage, simply toss in a few more cubes of cucumber or celery to revive it.

For a delightful twist, try serving this salad alongside grilled shrimp or chicken. The zesty dressing and crunchy vegetables contrast beautifully with the smoky flavors of grilled meats. You can also use it as a topping for tacos or as a refreshing side for picnics and barbecues, keeping your outdoor dining experience vibrant and healthy.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to get started:

Ingredients

4 stalks of celery, chopped
1 large cucumber, diced
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste

These ingredients will create a refreshing and crunch-packed salad!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your salad:

Prepare the Vegetables

In a large bowl, combine the chopped celery, diced cucumber, and sliced red onion. Toss gently to mix.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until emulsified.

Combine and Serve

Pour the dressing over the vegetable mixture and toss to coat evenly. Add the chopped parsley and mix. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Enjoy your refreshing Celery Cucumber Crunch Salad!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding feta cheese or avocado to the salad. You can also experiment with different herbs like dill or mint for a unique twist.

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to customize this salad based on your taste preferences or what you have on hand. For instance, if you don’t have fresh parsley, dill or cilantro can offer a delightful twist. Additionally, swapping the red onion for green onions can provide a milder taste without compromising on flavor.

For a low-sodium option, consider omitting the salt altogether or using a salt substitute. This is particularly important for those monitoring their sodium intake. If you crave a bit of warmth, adding diced jalapeños can introduce a spicy kick that pairs surprisingly well with the cooling elements of cucumber and celery.

Scaling the Recipe

This salad is easily scalable, making it a great choice for gatherings. To accommodate larger groups, simply double or triple the ingredient quantities. Keep in mind that as you increase the volume, you may want to adjust the dressing slightly to ensure that every bite remains flavorful. A general rule is to increase the dressing in a 3:1 ratio when doubling the salad’s ingredients.

If you end up with leftovers, consider repurposing the salad into a wrap or filling for sandwiches by combining it with some protein like shredded chicken or tuna, giving it a new life while minimizing food waste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, this salad can be made a few hours in advance. Just keep it in the fridge until you're ready to serve.

→ What can I substitute for parsley?

You can use fresh dill, cilantro, or even basil if you prefer a different herb flavor.

→ Is this salad vegan?

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

→ How can I make it more filling?

You can add proteins like chickpeas, grilled chicken, or tofu to make this salad more substantial.