If you’re on the lookout for a vibrant, refreshing salad that bursts with texture and bright flavor, this Crunchy Cucumber Celery Salad with Green Apple Recipe is a total game changer. Crisp celery ribs, tart green apples, and cool cucumber slices all come together in a delightful medley enhanced by fresh dill, zesty lemon, and a touch of sweetness. It’s a simple dish that manages to be both light and satisfying, perfect for a quick lunch, a colorful side at dinner, or whenever you need a fresh, crunchy pick-me-up. Once you try this salad, it’ll quickly become one of your favorite go-to recipes for any season.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This salad is all about simplicity and freshness, with ingredients that are easy to find but essential for nailing the perfect balance of crisp, tart, and herby flavors. Each component plays a special role: the celery brings that classic crunch, the green apples add a sharp sweetness, and the cucumber keeps it cool and refreshing.
- 9 celery ribs: Thinly sliced on a bias for a better crunch and visual appeal.
- 2 green apples: Granny Smith works best for a lovely tartness to brighten the salad.
- 1/2 English cucumber: Cut into quarter-inch half-moons to add fresh juiciness.
- 1/4 cup dill: Fresh and finely chopped to infuse the salad with herbaceous brightness.
- 1.5 tsp salt: Balances the tartness and enhances the overall flavors.
- 1/2 tsp sugar: Adds a subtle sweetness to counterbalance the lemon and apples.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: I recommend Lucini extra virgin for a rich, fruity dressing base.
- 1 tsp lemon zest: Adds a fragrant citrus punch that lifts the entire dish.
- 2 tbsp lemon juice: Freshly squeezed for the best bright and tangy flavor.
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion: Contributes a bit of sharpness and color contrast.
- 1/8 tsp black pepper: Just a hint to round out the flavors with a gentle kick.
How to Make Crunchy Cucumber Celery Salad with Green Apple Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Vegetables and Fruit
Start by thinly slicing the celery ribs on a bias; this not only maximizes crunch but also looks lovely in the salad bowl. Next, core and slice the green apples into thin wedges or half-moons to match the celery’s size. Finally, cut the English cucumber into quarter-inch half-moons. These steps ensure every bite has a perfect balance of textures.
Step 2: Combine the Fresh Ingredients
In a large bowl, toss together the sliced celery, green apples, and cucumbers. Add in the finely chopped Dill and red onion. The fresh dill introduces that unmistakable herby aroma that partners beautifully with the bright, crisp veggies and fruit.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
Whisk together the olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, sugar, and black pepper in a small bowl until the sugar dissolves and everything is combined into a smooth vinaigrette. This dressing perfectly enhances the natural flavors without overpowering the salad’s crunch.
Step 4: Toss and Serve
Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently but thoroughly so every slice is lightly coated. Let it sit for 5 minutes if you can—this allows the lemon juice and salt to slightly soften the celery and draw out the apple’s juicy tang, but it still remains crisp and refreshing.
How to Serve Crunchy Cucumber Celery Salad with Green Apple Recipe
Garnishes
You can jazz up this salad with a few additional garnishes — toasted walnuts or almonds add a satisfying nutty crunch, crumbled feta cheese brings creaminess, or a sprinkling of fresh parsley can brighten the presentation and flavor even more. These touches turn a simple salad into something extra special.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish, making it an ideal side dish for a light summer meal or backyard barbecue. It also works well alongside hearty sandwiches or as a crunchy component on a buffet table filled with diverse dishes.
Creative Ways to Present
To elevate your presentation, serve this salad in a clear glass bowl to show off all the vibrant colors, or pile it high in individual mason jars for a charming picnic option. You can also layer it with other complementary salads for a colorful, textured display that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This salad tastes best fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the celery and apples will slowly soften, so the crunch won’t be as pronounced over time. Give it a quick toss before serving to redistribute the dressing.
Freezing
Freezing this salad is not recommended because the cucumbers, celery, and apples will become mushy once thawed. To maintain the ideal crisp texture, it’s better to prepare it fresh or enjoy leftovers within a short time frame.
Reheating
Since this salad is designed to be served cold and crunchy, reheating is not suitable. Just chill it thoroughly and serve straight from the fridge for the best experience.
FAQs
Can I use red apples instead of green apples?
While red apples can be sweeter and less tart, using green apples like Granny Smith gives this Crunchy Cucumber Celery Salad with Green Apple Recipe its signature bright and tangy bite. If you prefer sweeter flavors, red apples will work but expect a milder tang.
Is there a way to make this salad vegan?
This salad as written is already vegan-friendly, using olive oil and fresh produce only. If you add garnishes like cheese, just leave those out or substitute with a plant-based alternative to keep it vegan.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with sliced radishes, bell peppers, or shaved fennel for extra crunch and flavor. Just keep the balance so the crunchy, fresh base of celery, cucumber, and green apple remains the star.
How long does the dressing keep if made in advance?
The dressing can be made and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just remember to give it a good whisk or shake before tossing with the salad to reincorporate any separated ingredients.
Is this salad good for meal prep lunches?
Yes! This Crunchy Cucumber Celery Salad with Green Apple Recipe holds up well for a day or two in the fridge, making it a refreshing and nutritious option for packed lunches. Just pack the dressing separately if you prefer maximum crunch and toss right before eating.
Final Thoughts
This Crunchy Cucumber Celery Salad with Green Apple Recipe is a delightful celebration of crisp textures and fresh flavors that always feels like a treat. It’s easy to make, wonderfully satisfying, and versatile enough to brighten any meal or occasion. Give it a try, and I’m sure it will become a beloved staple in your recipe collection just like it is in mine.
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Crunchy Cucumber Celery Salad with Green Apple Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A refreshing and crunchy salad combining thinly sliced celery ribs, tart green apples, and crisp cucumber, all tossed in a tangy lemon and olive oil dressing with fresh dill and red onion. Perfect as a light side dish or a healthy snack that takes just 10 minutes to prepare.
Ingredients
Salad
- 9 celery ribs, thinly sliced on a bias
- 2 green apples (Granny Smith preferred), thinly sliced
- 1/2 English cucumber, cut into 1/4-inch half-moons
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
Dressing
- 1.5 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp sugar
- 2 tbsp olive oil (extra virgin recommended)
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/8 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables and fruits: Thinly slice the celery ribs on a bias to enhance the crunch, cut the green apples into thin slices or matchsticks, and slice the English cucumber into 1/4-inch half-moons. Finely chop the red onion and chop the fresh dill.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, combine salt, sugar, olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, and black pepper. Whisk until the mixture is well emulsified and the sugar is dissolved.
- Toss the salad: In a large bowl, combine the sliced celery, apples, cucumber, red onion, and dill. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to ensure everything is evenly coated.
- Serve fresh: Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve the salad immediately for the best crunch and freshness. This salad pairs well with grilled dishes or as a light standalone snack.
Notes
- Granny Smith apples are preferred for their tartness, but you can substitute with other tart apple varieties.
- Slice the celery on a bias to maximize the crunchiness of the salad.
- For a slightly sweeter dressing, increase the sugar by 1/4 teaspoon as desired.
- Can be stored refrigerated for up to 4 hours, but best enjoyed fresh to keep the crisp textures.
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the brightest flavor.
