Celery Salad With Cucumber And Dill

Name: Celery Salad With Cucumber And Dill
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 stalks of celery, chopped; 1 large cucumber, diced; 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped; 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Light & Clean Cooking

I love making Celery Salad with Cucumber and Dill during the summer months when fresh produce is at its peak. The crunch of the celery paired with the cool, crisp cucumber creates a refreshing dish that is perfect for any picnic or barbecue. Tossing in fresh dill elevates the flavor profile, making it aromatic and delightful. It’s an easy recipe that never fails to impress, and it's a great way to add more veggies to our diet. Trust me, you’ll want to make this salad over and over again!

Created by

Amelia Grant

Last updated on 2026-01-22T07:58:05.378Z

When I first tried a celery salad, I was surprised by how simple and satisfying it was. The freshness of the ingredients really shines through, and I learned that letting the salad chill for a bit allows all the flavors to meld perfectly. One of my favorite twists is to add a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving; it really brightens up the dish.

This salad has become a staple in my house, especially for gatherings. It’s light yet flavorful, and it makes for a fantastic side dish that complements a variety of main courses. Next time, consider serving it with grilled chicken for a delightful summer meal.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Crisp, refreshing texture that awakens the palate
Easy to prepare with minimal ingredients
Packed with nutrients and flavor

Choosing Fresh Ingredients

For the best flavor and texture, select firm and vibrant celery and cucumbers. Fresh celery should have a bright green color and crispy texture without any wilting or browning. The cucumbers should be smooth and firm, indicating they are ripe. If you want an extra crunch, consider using English cucumbers, which have fewer seeds and a thinner skin that doesn’t require peeling.

The red onion adds a sharpness that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the cucumbers and the earthiness of the dill. If you find red onion too strong, soaking the slices in cold water for 10-15 minutes can mellow their flavor without losing the crunch.

Enhancing the Dressing

The dressing in this salad is simple but sets the stage for the dish's overall flavor. Using high-quality extra virgin olive oil not only makes the salad healthier but also enhances the taste with its fruity notes. Remember to whisk the dressing until emulsified; this helps blend the flavors more harmoniously, allowing the dill to shine.

Apple cider vinegar provides a tangy lift that balances the richness of the olive oil. If you prefer a milder acidity, you can substitute with white wine vinegar. For an extra depth of flavor, try adding a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the dressing—this will also help in emulsification.

Ingredients

Gather the fresh ingredients for this delightful salad:

Salad Ingredients

4 stalks of celery, chopped
1 large cucumber, diced
2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to wash all vegetables thoroughly before preparing.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your salad:

Prepare the Vegetables

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

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. Stir in the fresh dill.

Combine and Serve

Pour the dressing over the vegetable mixture and toss thoroughly to ensure everything is well coated. Let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 10 minutes before serving.

Serve chilled and enjoy your refreshing salad!

Pro Tips

For an extra twist, consider adding feta cheese or cherry tomatoes for added flavor and texture.

Make-Ahead Tips

This celery salad is ideal for making ahead of time. In fact, letting it sit in the fridge for a couple of hours before serving allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. To keep the vegetables from becoming soggy, consider storing the dressing separately until just before serving.

If you plan to enjoy leftovers, it's best to eat the salad within 2-3 days. The longer it sits, the more the cucumbers release water, which can dilute the dressing. When ready to serve, a quick stir will revive the salad and enhance its freshness.

Serving Suggestions

This salad can be served as a refreshing side dish at any summer gathering or picnic. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, especially chicken or fish, providing a cool contrast to warm dishes. Additionally, you can use it as a topping for sandwiches for a crunchy texture boost.

To elevate the dish even further, consider adding crumbled feta or goat cheese before serving. This addition introduces a creamy element that beautifully complements the crispness of the salad and builds layers of flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I add other vegetables to this salad?

Absolutely! Carrots or bell peppers would add fantastic color and crunch.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

The salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but it's best enjoyed fresh.

→ Can I use dried dill instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use dried dill; just use about one teaspoon for every tablespoon of fresh dill.

→ Is this salad suitable for vegan diets?

Yes, this salad is completely vegan and makes a great side dish for any meal.