Celery Cucumber Crunch Salad

Name: Celery Cucumber Crunch Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups chopped celery; 2 cups diced cucumber; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Wholesome Ideas

I love making Celery Cucumber Crunch Salad during the hot summer months. It's incredibly refreshing and packs a satisfying crunch that makes it perfect for any meal or as a light snack. The vibrant flavors of juicy cucumber and crisp celery come together in a quick and easy dish that always leaves my family wanting more. This salad is not only simple to prepare but also packed with nutrients, making it a favorite in our household.

Created by

Adriana Whitaker

Last updated on 2026-02-10T18:05:36.465Z

When I first came across this Celery Cucumber Crunch Salad, I knew it had the potential to become a staple at my summer gatherings. The combination of crisp celery and refreshing cucumber is a match made in heaven, and I appreciate how it can be made in just 15 minutes! One of my tips is to let the salad chill briefly in the fridge to enhance the flavors.

I've experimented with different dressings and toppings, but I always come back to a simple lemon vinaigrette that really highlights the freshness of the veggies. Pairing it with a sprinkle of toasted seeds adds an extra crunch that I absolutely love!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Crisp and refreshing texture that awakens the palate.
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy days.
Versatile ingredients that can be customized to your liking.

Choosing the Right Ingredients

The freshness of the cucumbers and celery is paramount in this salad. Opt for firm cucumbers with a vibrant, dark green skin, as they contain more nutrients and add a satisfying crispness. When selecting celery, look for stalks with bright green tops and no blemishes. The red onion should be firm and have a vibrant color, as this will provide both a mild sweetness and a pop of color in the salad.

Cherry tomatoes add a delightful burst of sweetness and acidity. When selecting them, choose tomatoes that are firm and free from blemishes; they're best enjoyed when they are in season. For the parsley, fresh is always better—look for bright green, unblemished leaves. Dried herbs won’t provide the same bright flavor or visual appeal in this dish.

Perfecting Your Dressing

The dressing is a crucial component that elevates the flavors of the salad. Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for its rich taste and health benefits. When whisking the dressing, ensure that you achieve a smooth and emulsified texture; this will help the dressing coat the vegetables evenly without separating. Adjusting the acidity with more lemon juice can balance sweetness, especially if you find your cucumbers or tomatoes are particularly sweet.

For an added layer of flavor, consider incorporating other ingredients into the dressing. A touch of Dijon mustard can enhance the tang, while a sprinkle of garlic powder provides an aromatic kick without the hassle of fresh garlic. If you prefer a creamier dressing, a dollop of Greek yogurt can also be mixed in for added richness and tang without overpowering the fresh veggies.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a delightful crunch salad:

Salad Ingredients

2 cups chopped celery
2 cups diced cucumber
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Dressing Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

Feel free to add additional veggies or toppings like feta cheese or sunflower seeds!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your salad:

Prepare the Vegetables

Start by washing and chopping all the vegetables. Place the chopped celery, diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, and finely chopped red onion in a large mixing bowl. Toss gently to combine.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste. You can adjust the seasoning as per your preference.

Combine and Serve

Pour the dressing over the vegetable mixture and toss until everything is well coated. Garnish with chopped parsley. Serve immediately or chill for 10 minutes in the fridge for a refreshingly cool treat.

Enjoy your vibrant and crunchy Celery Cucumber Crunch Salad!

Pro Tips

For an extra zing, consider adding a pinch of garlic powder or a splash of apple cider vinegar to the dressing. This helps to elevate the flavor profile even more.

Make-Ahead Tips

This salad can easily be made ahead of time, making it a perfect choice for meal prep. To maintain the crunchy texture, I recommend storing the vegetables and dressing separately in airtight containers. The chopped vegetables can last in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just remember to toss them with the dressing 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

If you want to enhance the flavor of your salad over time, consider letting it marinate in the fridge for a short period. A 10 to 15-minute chilling after combining the salad can help the flavors meld beautifully without compromising the crispness of the vegetables.

Serving Suggestions

While this salad is delightful on its own, it can also be served alongside a variety of dishes. Pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a well-rounded meal. Alternatively, it makes a refreshing accompaniment to richer foods such as steak or barbecue, cutting through their heaviness with its bright flavors.

For a unique twist, try serving the Celery Cucumber Crunch Salad in lettuce cups or alongside whole grain pita for a light, crunchy snack. This versatility allows the salad to shine not only as a side but as a centerpiece for a fresh, healthy meal anytime.

Scaling Up or Down

This recipe is easily scalable depending on your needs. If you're hosting a gathering, simply double or triple the ingredients while keeping the dressing ratios consistent. For smaller servings, halving the vegetable quantities works well; however, you might need to adjust the dressing slightly to ensure each portion is adequately coated.

Remember, adjusting seasonings is key when changing quantities. Always taste your salad after mixing and don't hesitate to add a bit more lemon juice or salt to ensure that the freshness of the ingredients shines through, regardless of the batch size.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare this salad in advance?

It's best to prepare the salad just before serving to maintain the crispness of the vegetables. However, you can chop the veggies a few hours ahead and mix them with the dressing right before serving.

→ What other ingredients can I add?

Feel free to add any favorite vegetables like bell peppers or radishes. You can also include proteins like chickpeas or grilled chicken for a more filling meal.

→ How long will leftovers last?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days, but the salad may lose its crunch over time.

→ Is this salad vegan-friendly?

Yes, this salad is entirely vegan as it consists of vegetables and simple dressings without any animal products.