Celery Cucumber Crunch Salad

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

Highlighted under: Wholesome Kitchen Co.

I absolutely love making this Celery Cucumber Crunch Salad, especially on warm days. The crispness of the celery and cucumber pairs perfectly with a light dressing that brings out their freshness. It’s a great way to enjoy veggies while keeping it simple and delicious. The combination of textures is truly delightful, and it's easy to customize with whatever additions you prefer. Plus, it comes together in just minutes, making it a quick go-to for lunches or picnics.

Created by

Marianne Hughes

Last updated on 2026-02-15T06:09:35.614Z

When I created this Celery Cucumber Crunch Salad, I wanted to highlight fresh ingredients that deliver both flavor and texture. The crisp cucumbers and crunchy celery make this salad a refreshing choice, especially in the summertime. I often toss in a handful of fresh herbs for an added flavor punch, which takes this simple dish to a whole new level.

One of the tips I have for making this salad the best it can be is to let it sit for a few minutes after dressing it. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making each bite truly satisfying. Plus, it’s a great way to use up veggies you might have lying around, making it not only delicious but also practical.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Crisp and refreshing texture that wakes up your taste buds
Light and healthy, perfect for warm weather
Quick preparation time makes it an effortless side dish

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient in this Celery Cucumber Crunch Salad plays a key role in elevating the overall flavor profile. The celery brings a satisfying crunch that's not just refreshing but also offers a good source of fiber, which is excellent for digestion. Meanwhile, cucumbers add a subtle sweetness and juiciness that balances the more robust flavors of the cherry tomatoes and red onion. Together, they create a vibrant base that is both nutritious and visually appealing.

The choice of dressing for this salad is equally important. A simple mix of olive oil and apple cider vinegar enhances the natural flavors without overshadowing them. Olive oil provides healthy fats, promoting better absorption of vitamins from the veggies, while apple cider vinegar introduces a tangy note that brightens the dish. If you're not a fan of apple cider vinegar, feel free to substitute it with lemon juice for a zesty alternative.

Preparing Ahead of Time

One of the best aspects of this salad is its make-ahead capability. You can chop the vegetables and store them in the refrigerator up to a day in advance. Just be sure to keep them in an airtight container to maintain their crispness. However, I suggest waiting until just before serving to add the dressing to prevent the veggies from becoming soggy. This way, your salad maintains that satisfying crunch that makes it so delightful.

If you want to bulk up the salad or add more flavor, consider including proteins such as grilled chicken, chickpeas, or mozzarella balls. These additions not only enhance the nutritional value but also make it a more filling option, ideal for lunch. Just be mindful of the dressing proportions—they may need to be adjusted to ensure an even coating on all ingredients.

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

4 stalks celery, chopped
2 medium cucumbers, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 red onion, finely sliced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Vegetables

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

Make the Dressing

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

Combine and Toss

Pour the dressing over the vegetable mix and toss well to combine all the flavors.

Chill and Serve

Let the salad sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld, then serve chilled.

Pro Tips

Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers or even nuts for extra crunch. A sprinkle of feta cheese can also elevate the flavors beautifully.

Storage Tips

If you happen to have leftovers, store the salad in the refrigerator within two hours of serving for the best result. Use a glass or plastic container with a tight-fitting lid to reduce exposure to air, which can lead to wilting. This salad is best consumed within 1-2 days. The longer it stays, the more the flavors meld together, which can be delicious, but the crunch factor will diminish.

For longer storage, consider keeping the dressing separate until you're ready to serve. This helps maintain the crispness of the vegetables, ensuring that you still enjoy that satisfying crunch. Store the dressing in a small jar in the fridge, where it can last for about a week. Shake it well before using to combine the flavors again.

Serving Suggestions

This Celery Cucumber Crunch Salad is incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways. For a light lunch, serve it in a bowl alongside whole grain crackers or pita chips, which complement the fresh flavors beautifully. Alternatively, it makes an excellent side dish for grilled meats or fish, adding a refreshing contrast that can help cut through richer flavors.

You can also transform this salad into a delightful appetizer by serving it in small cups or jars. Layer the salad in a clear glass to showcase its vibrant colors; this not only looks impressive but also allows guests to enjoy it as a finger food option at parties or gatherings.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the salad and dressing separately, then combine just before serving for the freshest taste.

→ What can I serve this salad with?

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as part of a picnic spread.

→ Can I use other types of vinegar?

Absolutely! You can substitute with white wine vinegar or lemon juice for a different flavor profile.

→ Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! Just store the dressing separately to keep the salad fresh until you’re ready to eat.