Crunchy Celery Salad With Lemon Dressing

Name: Crunchy Celery Salad With Lemon Dressing
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 large celery stalks, chopped; 1 large cucumber, diced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup toasted walnuts, roughly chopped; 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon honey; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

I absolutely love the refreshing crunch of this Celery Salad with Lemon Dressing! The bright flavors come together to create a dish that’s both light and satisfying. I often serve it as a side at gatherings, and it never fails to impress. The zesty lemon dressing adds a tangy kick that beautifully complements the crisp celery. Plus, it’s a breeze to prepare, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll have a vibrant salad ready to enjoy!

Created by

Holly James

Last updated on 2026-01-22T07:37:15.793Z

When I first tried this Crunchy Celery Salad with Lemon Dressing, I was struck by how simple yet vibrant the flavors are. I experimented with different dressings, but found that a lemon-based dressing really brings out the freshness of the celery. The bright acidity pairs beautifully with other crunchy vegetables, making it a perfect addition to any meal.

To make this salad even more delightful, I like to add some toasted nuts for an extra layer of flavor and crunch. Just make sure not to overdo it; a little goes a long way in enhancing the salad without overshadowing the star ingredient, which is, of course, the celery!

        You'll Love This for Its
        Refreshing crunch that’s a delight to the senses
Zesty lemon dressing that brightens every bite
Easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion

      

Choosing the Right Celery

When selecting celery for your salad, look for crisp, firm stalks with bright green leaves. Avoid any stalks that are limp or yellowing, as they can compromise the salad's refreshing crunch. Fresh celery has a slightly sweet flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish, making it essential for a successful salad. Additionally, the thickness of the stalks matters; thinner stalks are generally more tender and flavorful, while thicker ones can be more fibrous and less enjoyable.

If you're looking to add even more crunch and flavor, consider using a mix of celery types. For example, combining regular green celery with the sweeter, more colorful varieties like red or even yellow celery can create a more visually appealing and tasty salad. Don’t forget to thoroughly wash the celery under running water to remove any dirt that may be hidden in the crevices.

Perfectly Toasting Walnuts

Toasting walnuts brings out their rich flavor and adds a delightful crunch to your salad. You can toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently until they're golden and fragrant. This not only enhances the taste but also helps improve the texture of the nuts, making them more enjoyable in your salad. Keep a close eye on them, as they can burn quickly if left unattended.

If you prefer a more straightforward method, you can toast walnuts in the oven. Spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and toast at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes. Either method you choose works wonderfully, but remember to let them cool slightly before adding them to your salad to maintain that satisfying crunch without wilting the other ingredients.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to whip up a delicious salad!

Salad Ingredients

4 large celery stalks, chopped
1 large cucumber, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup toasted walnuts, roughly chopped

Dressing Ingredients

1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon honey
Salt and pepper to taste

Combine all these ingredients for a refreshing salad!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your Crunchy Celery Salad.

Prepare the Vegetables

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

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Combine and Serve

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the vegetables. Top with toasted walnuts just before serving.

Enjoy your Crunchy Celery Salad as a fresh side dish or a light meal!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, let the salad sit for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Customizing the Dressing

While the lemon dressing is zesty and refreshing, you can easily customize it based on your taste preferences or dietary needs. For a creamier dressing, try adding a dollop of Greek yogurt or a tablespoon of tahini. If you're looking for a spice kick, a pinch of cayenne or a teaspoon of Dijon mustard can elevate the flavor profile. Just remember to taste as you add these variations, so you find the perfect balance you enjoy.

If fresh lemon juice isn't available, lime juice can serve as an excellent substitute, bringing a different yet equally delightful tang. Alternatively, using bottled lemon juice is an option, but fresh is always recommended for the best flavor. You could also experiment by swapping half of the lemon juice for apple cider vinegar for an interesting twist.

Variation Ideas

To keep your Celery Salad exciting, try adding seasonal ingredients. In the fall, diced apples or pears can introduce a sweet element, while in the summer, diced tomatoes or shredded carrots can add flavor and colorful bursts. For an even heartier salad, consider including protein sources like shredded rotisserie chicken or chickpeas for a more filling dish that's still light.

Another great way to enhance this salad is by including herbs such as fresh dill or basil. These herbs not only add flavor but can also complement the lemon dressing beautifully. Simply chop the herbs finely and mix them into the salad just before serving; they’ll add a fresh aromatic note that brightens up the overall presentation.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the celery?

Yes! You can use any crunchy vegetable like jicama or carrots for a different texture.

→ How long can I store the salad?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

→ Is this salad vegan?

Yes, all the ingredients are plant-based and vegan-friendly!

→ What can I add for more protein?

Consider adding chickpeas, shredded chicken, or feta cheese for an extra protein boost.