Ever since I found my grandmother’s faded recipe card tucked inside an old cookbook, I’ve been obsessed with the unlikely combo of cucumbers and celery. This salad feels like a small rebellion—an unassuming mix that whispers stories of wartime simplicity and secret garden pickings. It’s a reminder that sometimes the most unexpected ingredients hold the freshest memories.
As the summer heat drags on, I crave something that scratches that itch for crunch and brightness without fuss. The scent of freshly sliced cucumbers mingling with crisp celery, coated lightly in vinegar, takes me back to lazy afternoons in my childhood backyard. It’s almost nostalgic how this simple dish captures a fleeting moment of freshness even in today’s chaotic world.
Cucumber and Celery Salad
Equipment
- Mandoline or sharp knife
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or tongs
Ingredients
- 2 large cucumbers preferably unpeeled
- 3 stalks celery trimmed and sliced thinly
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon salt plus extra to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar optional, balances acidity
- 1 dash black pepper freshly ground
Instructions
- Slice the cucumbers thinly using a mandoline or sharp knife until they're nearly translucent, creating delicate rounds.
- Trim the celery stalks and slice them into thin matchstick-sized pieces for a crisp texture.
- Combine the sliced cucumbers and celery in a large mixing bowl, letting the vibrant green and white create an inviting contrast.
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the vinegar, salt, sugar (if using), and black pepper until the salt and sugar dissolve completely, creating a tangy dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the vegetables, tossing gently with a spoon or tongs until everything is evenly coated and begins to glisten.
- Let the salad rest for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the vegetables to slightly soften yet stay crunchy.
- Give the salad one final toss, taste, and adjust the seasoning if needed—adding more salt or vinegar for tanginess.
- Serve the salad immediately for maximum crunch, or refrigerate briefly if you prefer it colder and more refreshing.
Notes
This salad isn’t just about flavor; it’s about holding onto those little traditions that slip quietly into everyday life. In a season dominated by vibrant produce, this combo stands out—crisp, clean, and lightly dressed—kind of like summer in a bowl.
Sometimes, dishes like this remind us that simplicity has its own story to tell. It’s a reminder to trust in the old and embrace the quiet moments that make cooking meaningful, no matter how chaotic the world around us gets.
