Celery and Cucumber Slaw

Name: Celery and Cucumber Slaw
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups celery, thinly sliced; 2 cups cucumber, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon honey; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Low Calorie Recipes

I love making this Celery and Cucumber Slaw when I want a refreshing side dish that’s quick and easy. The crunchiness of the celery combined with the coolness of the cucumber creates a delightful contrast, and the light dressing perfectly enhances their natural flavors. It's a great way to add some crispness to any meal, and you can whip it up in just 15 minutes! Plus, it pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or tacos, making it a versatile addition that I often turn to in the summer months.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-30T02:55:28.200Z

Creating this Celery and Cucumber Slaw was an exciting moment for me as I was looking for a light and crunchy side dish. The combination of fresh herbs and a zesty vinegar dressing brings it to life. I've found that letting the slaw sit for a few minutes before serving allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making each bite even more delicious.

One tip I've learned is to choose crisp, firm cucumbers and avoid any that feel soft or have blemishes. This ensures that the slaw maintains its crunchiness and texture, which is key to enjoying this dish. Whenever I serve it, my guests always ask for the recipe, and I love sharing it!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Crunchy texture that adds freshness to any meal
Light and refreshing flavors perfect for summer
Quick to prepare, making it an easy go-to side dish

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient in this Celery and Cucumber Slaw plays a crucial role in creating a refreshing flavor profile. The celery provides a crisp texture that holds up well even when dressed, while cucumbers add a cool juiciness. Red onion contributes a subtle sharpness, balancing with the sweetness from honey, which enhances the slaw without overpowering it. Lastly, fresh parsley adds a burst of herbaceousness, making each bite a medley of tastes and textures that are particularly satisfying in summer.

For the most vibrant results, choose fresh, firm cucumbers and crisp celery stalks. If you’re preparing this slaw ahead of time, consider using Persian or English cucumbers as they have fewer seeds and a thinner skin, which can enhance the final presentation of your dish. When selecting celery, look for brightly colored stalks that are not limp; they should snap crisply when bent.

Tips for Perfecting Your Slaw

One key technique to elevate your slaw is ensuring that the vegetables are sliced uniformly for even marination. A sharp knife is essential—using a mandoline slicer can help achieve consistent thickness quickly, which not only enhances visual appeal but also ensures uniform flavor absorption from the dressing. Aim for slices that are about 1/8-inch thick for optimal texture.

Give your slaw the chance to rest for about 10 minutes after combining it with the dressing. This allows the vegetables to soften slightly and the flavors to meld together beautifully. You can adjust the seasoning after this resting period if needed; I often find that a pinch more salt or another drizzle of honey can make a big difference in how the flavors pop.

Ingredients

For this delicious slaw, gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients

4 cups celery, thinly sliced
2 cups cucumber, thinly sliced
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon honey
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Here's how to make the Celery and Cucumber Slaw:

Prepare the Vegetables

Thinly slice the celery, cucumber, and red onion. Chop the parsley and add all the vegetables to a large mixing bowl.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Combine and Serve

Pour the dressing over the vegetable mixture and toss gently to coat. Let the slaw sit for about 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to develop.

Pro Tips

For a twist on this slaw, consider adding thinly sliced bell peppers or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for added flavor and texture.

Make-Ahead Tips and Storage

This slaw is particularly well-suited for make-ahead preparations, as its flavors improve over time. If you want to prep the slaw a day in advance, slice the vegetables but hold off tossing them with the dressing until just before serving. This will keep them crunchy and vibrant. When stored correctly in an airtight container in the refrigerator, the slaw can last for up to 3 days.

If you find yourself with leftovers, consider repurposing them into a light wrap with grilled chicken or fish, or as a topping for sandwiches. The refreshing crunch makes it a versatile component for multiple meals throughout the week!

Variations and Serving Suggestions

Feel free to experiment with different herbs in this slaw. Dill or cilantro can create an entirely different flavor experience, depending on your preferences. Similarly, you can add other vegetables like shredded carrots or bell peppers for additional color and nutrition. A squeeze of lime juice instead of apple cider vinegar can also provide a zesty twist that complements spicy dishes.

This slaw is fantastic alongside grilled meats but also makes a delightful topping for fish tacos or carnitas. I love serving it in a large bowl at summer barbecues, inviting guests to help themselves. To make it a complete meal, consider adding protein like chickpeas or shredded chicken right into the slaw.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this slaw ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the vegetables and dressing separately a day in advance. Just combine them shortly before serving for the best texture.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to mix in other crunchy vegetables like shredded carrots or radishes for added flavor and color.

→ Is this slaw vegan?

Yes, as long as you use a vegan honey substitute or eliminate honey altogether, this slaw is completely vegan.

→ How long does the slaw last in the fridge?

The slaw can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh.