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 cups fresh celery, chopped; 1 cup cucumber, diced; 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped; 1/4 cup plain yogurt; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Nutritious Favorites

I absolutely love this Celery Salad with Cucumber and Dill! It's a refreshing dish that brings a unique combination of flavors and crunchiness to any meal. The crunch of the fresh celery pairs beautifully with the crisp cucumber, while the dill adds a fragrant hint that elevates the whole dish. I often prepare this salad on warm days when I crave something light yet satisfying. It's easy to whip up and perfect for a BBQ, picnic, or as a side to your favorite protein.

Created by

Margaret Hill

Last updated on 2026-01-22T09:58:07.832Z

My journey into creating this Celery Salad with Cucumber and Dill began when I was looking for a light dish that wouldn’t overpower my main course. After several trials, I found that the key to great flavor is in the freshness of the ingredients. I source the crispest celery and cucumbers I can find to enhance the texture, and I make my own dressing to control the tanginess.

What really sets this salad apart is the addition of freshly chopped dill. I discovered that this herb not only adds a fragrant aroma but also a vibrant flavor that complements the vegetables wonderfully. Each bite is a refreshing mix, perfect for hot summer days or as a pallet cleanser between richer dishes!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Crisp and refreshing, perfect for warm days
Easy to prepare with minimal ingredients
Herbaceous dill elevates the flavor profile

Unlocking Fresh Flavors

The key to enhancing the flavors of your Celery Salad lies in the freshness of your ingredients. Opt for vibrant, crisp celery stalks and firm cucumbers to ensure a satisfying crunch in every bite. When selecting dill, fresh is always best—dried dill lacks the intensity and fragrance that elevate this dish. If you can't find fresh dill, substitute it with an equal amount of parsley for a different yet equally refreshing herbaceous note.

When chopping your vegetables, aim for uniform pieces. This not only enhances the presentation but also ensures an even distribution of flavors. A sharp knife is your best tool here; it will help prevent bruising the vegetables which can lead to undesirable textures. After dicing the cucumber, consider lightly salting it to draw out excess moisture, which will prevent your salad from becoming soggy.

Perfecting the Dressing

This salad's creamy dressing, made with plain yogurt, brings a delightful tang that balances the crispness of the vegetables. Make sure to use full-fat yogurt for a richer flavor and creamier texture. If you're looking to lighten it up, low-fat yogurt works as a substitute, but be aware that it may slightly alter the creaminess. For a dairy-free version, try using a plant-based yogurt alternative, ensuring it's unsweetened for the best flavor match.

When whisking the dressing, make sure it’s smooth and well-blended. If you find your dressing too thick, thin it out by adding a bit more lemon juice or a splash of water. The acidic touch not only aids in flavor but also helps to preserve the salad better if you're making it ahead of time. Letting the salad sit for a few minutes before serving allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Celery Salad

Ingredients

4 cups fresh celery, chopped
1 cup cucumber, diced
1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
1/4 cup plain yogurt
2 tablespoons lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix all the ingredients in a large bowl and enjoy your refreshing salad!

Instructions

Preparation Steps

Combine Vegetables

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

Make Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the plain yogurt, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well blended.

Add Dill

Fold in the chopped dill into the vegetable mixture.

Dress the Salad

Pour the dressing over the celery and cucumber, tossing everything together until fully coated.

Serve

Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for up to 30 minutes before serving.

This salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Pro Tips

For extra crunch, consider adding toasted nuts or seeds. You can also substitute the yogurt with a vegan alternative for a dairy-free version.

Serving Suggestions

This Celery Salad with Cucumber and Dill makes a fantastic side dish, complementing grilled meats or fish perfectly. For a more substantial meal, try adding protein such as shredded chicken or canned chickpeas, making it a refreshing lunch option. You can also serve it as a starter with whole grain crackers for a light yet satisfying appetizer.

To elevate the presentation, consider garnishing the salad with additional dill sprigs or a sprinkle of toasted seeds, like sunflower or pumpkin, for added texture. For a hint of sweetness, a few slices of ripe avocado could add creaminess and a unique flavor twist, harmonizing with the dill’s herbaceous notes.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you’re prepping this salad ahead of time, keep the celery and cucumber separate from the dressing until ready to serve. This prevents the vegetables from becoming limp. You can mix everything together a few hours in advance; just be sure to consume it within a day for the best taste and texture. Alternatively, store the undressed salad in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness.

Should you have leftovers, keep in mind that the dressing may thicken as it chills. A quick stir and a dash of lemon juice or water will help return it to its ideal consistency. However, consuming the salad within two days is recommended to enjoy the flavors and crunchy texture at their best.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare this salad a day in advance?

Yes, but for the freshest taste, add the dressing just before serving.

→ What can I substitute if I don't have dill?

Fresh parsley or chives can be good alternatives for a different flavor.

→ Is this salad suitable for a vegan diet?

You can easily make it vegan by replacing the yogurt with a plant-based alternative.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftover salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days in an airtight container.