Celery Salad With Cucumber And Dill

Name: Celery Salad With Cucumber And Dill
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 stalks of celery, chopped; 1 medium cucumber, diced; 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Balanced Wellness Meals

I absolutely love making Celery Salad with Cucumber and Dill, especially on warm days when I crave something refreshing. The crunch of the celery paired with the coolness of cucumber creates a delightful texture, while the dill adds an aromatic touch that ties everything together. It’s a quick dish to prepare, and it comes together in just a few minutes. This salad not only captivates the palate, but it also serves as a wonderful side to any meal or a light snack that’s both nutritious and satisfying.

Created by

Rebecca Mills

Last updated on 2026-01-22T08:40:10.252Z

In my kitchen, the Celery Salad with Cucumber and Dill has become a staple for gatherings. I remember the first time I shared it at a picnic; it was an instant hit! The secret lies in the balance of flavors—using fresh dill and a splash of lemon juice elevates the dish beyond a typical salad. I often recommend giving it a few minutes to marinate before serving, allowing the vegetables to absorb the flavors.

One trick I've learned is to chop the celery and cucumber uniformly to ensure even texture in each bite. This salad not only helps me to use up leftover vegetables, but it also adds a vibrant splash of color to the table. Don’t hesitate to pair it with grilled meats or serve it alongside pita chips for a light yet satisfying snack.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Fresh and crunchy texture that’s incredibly refreshing
Versatile as a side dish or a light appetizer
Quick to prepare and perfect for hot weather cravings

The Role of Fresh Ingredients

Choosing fresh ingredients is crucial for the flavor profile of this Celery Salad. The crunchiness of the celery provides a satisfying texture, while the cucumber contributes a refreshing coolness. I recommend selecting firm, vibrant cucumbers without any blemishes for the best crunch. Don’t overlook the dill; fresh dill has a distinctly aromatic quality that dried versions can’t replicate. It elevates the dish and ties the flavors together beautifully, so sourcing fresh herbs is well worth the effort.

When preparing your vegetables, ensure that your celery is crisp and not wilted. Fresh celery will snap easily when you cut it, indicating that it has retained its natural moisture and flavor. If you can, opt for organic versions of these ingredients as they often pack more flavor and nutrients. A little extra time spent selecting quality produce can turn this simple salad into an extraordinary dish.

Perfecting the Dressing

The olive oil and lemon juice dressing is simple but plays a pivotal role in enhancing the flavors of the salad. For the olive oil, I suggest using a high-quality extra virgin oil, as its peppery nuances will complement the fresh vegetables wonderfully. When mixing the dressing, whisking them together in a small bowl before adding it to the salad can help emulsify the oil and lemon juice, creating a richer mouthfeel and promoting even coating of the ingredients.

If you find yourself lacking lemon juice, red wine vinegar can serve as a delightful substitute. It adds a tangy kick, and you can adjust the quantity based on your preference. Additionally, feel free to play with flavor by incorporating a pinch of garlic powder or a hint of honey for some sweetness, tailoring the dressing to your taste!

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients:

Ingredients

4 stalks of celery, chopped
1 medium cucumber, diced
1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix well and enjoy your salad!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your salad:

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the chopped celery, diced cucumber, and fresh dill.

Dress the Salad

Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice over the mixture. Season with salt and pepper, and toss to combine.

Let it Marinate

Allow the salad to sit for about 5 minutes to let the flavors meld together.

Serve

Serve chilled as a refreshingly light side dish.

Enjoy your refreshing celery salad!

Pro Tips

For added crunch, consider throwing in some chopped bell peppers or grated carrots. You can also substitute the dill with parsley for a different flavor profile.

Make-Ahead Options

Preparing this Celery Salad in advance is a great idea if you’re planning for a picnic or gathering. You can chop the vegetables and prepare the dressing a day ahead, storing them separately in the refrigerator. Just toss them together shortly before serving to ensure they stay crisp. This also allows the flavors to infuse even more once combined, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.

If you prefer a more substantial salad, consider adding ingredients like chickpeas or diced avocado. These additions not only offer a more filling option but also add a protein boost. However, I recommend adding these heartier ingredients right before serving to maintain their textures.

Serving Suggestions

This celery salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats, making it an ideal side for barbecues or summer cookouts. Alternatively, serve it alongside a rich dish like roasted chicken or creamy pasta salads; its refreshing quality helps balance richer flavors. Another fun idea is to use this salad as a filling for lettuce wraps or as a topping on whole-grain crackers for a bite-sized appetizer!

For a touch of color and additional nutrients, consider adding a handful of cherry tomatoes or bell peppers to the mix. These ingredients not only add visual appeal, but they also enhance the crunch factor and introduce a little sweetness, perfectly complementing the celery's savory crunch.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Bell peppers, radishes, or even carrots can enhance the salad’s crunchiness.

→ How long can this salad be stored?

It’s best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, just keep the dressing separate until you're ready to serve to maintain freshness.

→ What can I serve with this salad?

This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, seafood, or as part of a picnic spread.