Celery And Dill Garden Salad

Name: Celery And Dill Garden Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 stalks of celery, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped; 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup cucumber, chopped; 1/4 cup sunflower seeds (optional); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Seasonal Delights

I absolutely love whipping up a refreshing Celery and Dill Garden Salad! The crispness of the celery combined with the aromatic dill creates a delightful harmony of flavors. In our kitchen, this salad has become a favorite for its lightness and simplicity. Whether as a side dish or a light meal, it brings a fresh element to any table. Plus, it's incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Created by

Penelope Dawson

Last updated on 2026-02-16T02:43:35.940Z

Creating the perfect Celery and Dill Garden Salad has been such a pleasant journey for me. I experimented with different amounts of dill and lemon juice to find that ideal balance. One day, I added a sprinkle of toasted nuts, and it took the salad to a new level of texture and flavor. It taught me that sometimes, small additions can make a big impact.

Also, I’ve learned that using fresh ingredients truly makes a difference, especially with herbs like dill. The vibrant flavor pairs wonderfully with the crunchy celery. I love serving it chilled, letting the flavors meld together, which is a tip I highly recommend!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Crisp and refreshing texture that elevates any meal
Aromatic dill enhances the natural flavors of the vegetables
Quick to make, perfect for last-minute cravings or gatherings

Elevating Flavors with Fresh Ingredients

The freshness of the celery in this salad is crucial. Look for vibrant green stalks that snap easily when bent; this indicates peak freshness. Celery provides a satisfying crunch and a subtle earthiness that balances well with the bright notes of lemon in the dressing. You can also consider using organic celery if available, as it tends to have a more pronounced flavor.

Dill adds a unique aromatic quality that can transform a simple salad into something extraordinary. Fresh dill is vastly superior to dried in terms of taste—look for fragrant, bright-green fronds. If you're in a pinch, you could substitute with parsley for a different flavor profile, but keep in mind that the distinct taste of dill is part of what makes this salad stand out.

Tips for Making and Storing

Preparation is quick, but if you want to save time later, you can prep the salad ingredients a few hours in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve. This prevents the vegetables from becoming soggy and allows the flavors to remain crisp and vibrant. In fact, I often slice the celery and cherry tomatoes and store them in an airtight container with a damp paper towel to maintain freshness.

This salad is best served fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in the refrigerator for up to a day. However, note that the sunflower seeds may lose their crunch. To revive the texture of older salads, consider adding a few new seeds or nuts just before serving for that delightful crunch again.

Ingredients

Gather the following fresh ingredients for your salad:

Salad Ingredients

4 stalks of celery, thinly sliced
1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup cucumber, chopped
1/4 cup sunflower seeds (optional)

Dressing Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

These ingredients will create a delicious salad full of flavor and crunch!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your salad:

Prepare the Vegetables

In a large bowl, combine the sliced celery, chopped dill, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced red onion, and chopped cucumber. Toss gently to mix.

Make the Dressing

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

Combine and Serve

Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to combine. If using, sprinkle sunflower seeds on top for added crunch. Serve immediately.

Enjoy your fresh and vibrant salad!

Pro Tips

For the best flavor, let the salad sit for about 10 minutes after mixing to allow the flavors to meld. You can also substitute any of the vegetables based on what you have on hand.

Creative Serving Ideas

This Celery and Dill Garden Salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats, making it a refreshing side for summer barbecues. Try serving it alongside grilled salmon or chicken. You can also make it a main dish! Add a protein such as chickpeas or shredded chicken to the salad, making it more filling while still keeping it light and healthy.

For a twist, consider throwing in diced avocado for a creamy element that complements the crunch of the celery. The avocado will add a richness that pairs nicely with the tangy lemon dressing. If you enjoy a good kick, toss in some sliced radishes or a sprinkle of chili flakes to give your salad an extra layer of flavor.

Adjusting for Dietary Needs

This salad is vegan and gluten-free as it stands, making it a versatile choice for various dietary preferences. If you’re looking to make it more nutrient-dense, consider adding quinoa or farro mixed in with the vegetables. Both provide a hearty texture while keeping the overall salad light.

For those who are nut-sensitive, simply omit the sunflower seeds or swap them for pumpkin seeds. These will similarly add crunch and nutritional benefit without compromising the flavor profile of the dish. Feel free to experiment with other seed options based on your preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the vegetables and dressing separately and combine them just before serving to keep the salad fresh.

→ What can I use instead of dill?

If you don't have dill, you can use parsley or basil for a different flavor profile.

→ How long will the salad last in the fridge?

It's best enjoyed fresh, but it can last in the fridge for up to 2 days if stored in an airtight container.

→ Can I add protein to this salad?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken or chickpeas would be great additions for added protein.