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, thinly sliced; 1 medium cucumber, diced; 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Balanced Plate

I love making this refreshing Celery Salad with Cucumber and Dill during the warm months. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. The crunchiness of the celery combined with crisp cucumbers and a zesty dill dressing makes it a perfect side dish for barbecues or a light lunch. Each bite is invigorating, and the simple preparation allows the fresh ingredients to shine. It’s a wonderful way to incorporate more vegetables into my diet, and I know you’ll enjoy it too!

Created by

Olivia Hayes

Last updated on 2026-01-22T07:40:13.156Z

When I first stumbled upon the combination of celery and cucumber, I was pleasantly surprised. The freshness of these two ingredients creates a delightful crunch that's simply irresistible. I discovered that adding fresh dill takes it up a notch, giving the salad a lovely herbal scent that lingers beautifully in the air. This salad makes an excellent accompaniment to grilled meats or can even stand alone as a light lunch.

To elevate the flavors further, I like to let the salad marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes before serving. This allows the dressing to mingle perfectly with the crunchy vegetables, enhancing every bite. I've received numerous compliments every time I serve this salad, and I can’t wait for you to try it!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A refreshing crunch with every bite
Bright and aromatic flavors from fresh dill
Quick to prepare, perfect for busy days

Ingredient Insights

The freshness of the cucumbers greatly impacts the overall taste of this salad. Look for firm, unblemished cucumbers, as those will provide the best crunch and flavor. If you're looking for a different texture, consider using English cucumbers, which have a thinner skin and fewer seeds, making them even easier to eat. Remember, the key to a great salad is in using the most vibrant and fresh produce you can find.

Celery not only contributes to the crunch but also has a wonderful, slightly salty flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy notes of olive oil. Depending on your taste preferences, you can use either standard green celery or go for the more visually appealing, and slightly milder, purple or even yellow celery. These variations offer unique textures and can add an aesthetic appeal to your salad.

Preparation Tips

When slicing the celery, aim for uniform pieces that are thin enough to absorb the dressing without losing their crispness. Using a sharp knife ensures clean cuts and helps maintain the celery's structure. For cucumbers, dicing them into bite-sized cubes not only make the salad visually appealing but also allows for better integration with the dressing for a burst of flavor in every bite.

Allowing the salad to sit in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes before serving is crucial. This resting period lets the flavors meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste of the dish. If you prefer a more pronounced dill flavor, consider letting it sit for up to an hour, but keep in mind that the vegetables may lose some of their crispness if left too long.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a delightful salad.

Ingredients

4 stalks of celery, thinly sliced
1 medium cucumber, diced
2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix everything in a bowl for a burst of flavor!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your salad.

Prepare the Vegetables

In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced celery and diced cucumber. Make sure to mix them thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of flavors.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, white wine vinegar, salt, and pepper. Add the chopped dill and stir to combine.

Combine and Serve

Pour the dressing over the celery and cucumber mixture. Toss gently until the vegetables are well-coated. Let it sit for about 15 minutes in the fridge before serving.

Enjoy your refreshing salad!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add other ingredients like shredded carrots or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.

Storage Solutions

This celery salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can make it ahead of time if you're planning for gatherings. To store it, keep the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will maintain good quality for about two days. However, expect some slight wilting over time, especially in the celery. If you want to prolong its freshness, consider keeping the dressing separate until you're ready to serve.

When reheating is necessary—though not common for a salad—you should be aware that leafy greens and cucumbers don't hold up well. Instead of reheating, try layering this salad over grilled chicken or fish. This way, you retain the freshness while adding a flavorful and protein-rich component to your meal.

Flavor Variations

To switch things up, consider adding other fresh herbs such as parsley or mint, which can provide a different aromatic profile while complimenting the dill. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can also enhance the brightness of the salad, making it even more refreshing. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, finely chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes can be added for a spicy kick.

If you're looking to make this salad heartier, feel free to toss in some protein sources. Chickpeas or diced avocado can turn this dish into a more filling option, ideal for a lunch or light dinner. Just be cautious with the dressing quantities to avoid overwhelming the other ingredients, especially if you're adding richer textures like avocado.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a few hours in advance, but it's best to wait to add the dressing until you're ready to serve to maintain the crunch.

→ What can I use instead of dill?

If you don't have dill, you can substitute with parsley or chives for a different flavor profile.

→ Is this salad vegan?

Yes, all the ingredients are plant-based. Enjoy it as part of a vegan meal!

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The vegetables may lose some crunch over time.