Jump to Recipe Print RecipeDid you know that a simple combination of cucumbers and celery could transport you to sun-soaked Mediterranean shores? That’s exactly what my Cucumber Celery Olive Odyssey Salad does—it’s a vibrant celebration of fresh flavors! This easy salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a powerhouse of nutrients and high in fiber, making it the perfect companion for a light lunch or an uplifting side dish at dinner. Plus, it comes together in minutes, keeping things stress-free in your kitchen. Whether you’re seeking a healthy alternative to fast food or just want to jazz up your meal routine, this delightful dish is sure to please. Ready to take your taste buds on an adventure? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe! Why is this salad a must-try? Vibrant, Refreshing Taste: This salad combines crunchy cucumbers and celery for a crisp bite, perfectly complemented by sweet dates and tangy olives. Quick to Make: With simple, straightforward instructions, you can whip this up in no time—ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings! Nutrient Dense: Packed with fiber and plant-based protein, this salad is both heart-healthy and satisfying, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to eat healthier. Versatility: Customize your “Cucumber Celery Olive Odyssey Salad” by adding grilled chicken or feta cheese, and tweak ingredients based on what’s in your fridge! Goes Well with Everything: Pair it with grilled meats or enjoy it solo—this salad shines as a side dish or as a light lunch option. Discover additional fresh salad ideas like Caprese Cucumber Salad and Golden Girl Salad to keep your meals exciting! Cucumber Celery Olive Odyssey Salad Ingredients • Dive into the fresh flavors! For the Salad Olive Oil – Adds richness and moisture; substitute with avocado oil for a new twist. Garbanzo Beans (Canned) – Provides a creamy texture and protein boost; be sure to rinse before using. Mini Cucumbers – Offers a satisfying crunch and freshness; regular cucumbers can be used, peeled if preferred. Celery – Adds a juicy crunch and hydration; essential for a light, refreshing feel. Carrots – Boosts sweetness and color; any variety, especially heirloom, works well for vibrancy. Red Onions – Introduces sharpness; feel free to swap for green onions for a milder touch. Green Olives (with Pimentos) – Contributes saltiness and a briny note; Kalamata olives add a bolder flavor. Dole Sunshine Dates – Infuses sweet, chewy goodness; can be replaced with raisins or dried apricots for variety. Green Onions – Enhances with a mild onion flavor; using green tops adds extra color. Radishes (optional) – Delivers a peppery crunch; omit if you prefer simplicity. Fresh Basil – Adds aromatic flavor; parsley can be an excellent substitute if desired. For the Dressing Sea Salt and Coarse Ground Pepper – Essential seasonings that elevate the flavors; adjust to your taste preference. Lemon Juice – Provides necessary acidity to balance flavors; fresh juice is key for brightness. Harissa (Dry) – Gives a spice kick and depth of flavor; adjust quantity based on your heat preference. Lemon Thyme – Enhances freshness; regular thyme can be used as an alternative. Now you’re all set with the ingredients for your Cucumber Celery Olive Odyssey Salad! Let your culinary adventure begin! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cucumber Celery Olive Odyssey Salad Step 1: Sauté the Chickpeas In a large cast iron skillet over medium heat, pour in ¼ cup of olive oil, then add the rinsed garbanzo beans and sprinkle in harissa. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beans are warmed through and infused with the spices. Once done, remove from the heat and cover to keep warm while you prepare the fresh ingredients for your Cucumber Celery Olive Odyssey Salad. Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables In a large mixing bowl, combine your chopped mini cucumbers, diced celery, shredded carrots, sliced red onions, and any optional radishes you like. Toss these vibrant, crunchy veggies together, ensuring they are well-mixed for a delightful texture. This colorful medley is what brings your Cucumber Celery Olive Odyssey Salad to life, adding both nutrition and visual appeal. Step 3: Mix in Olives and Dates Next, add the green olives, sweet Dole Sunshine dates, and chopped green onions to the bowl with your salad mixture. The combination of briny olives and chewy dates will create a beautiful contrast to the crisp vegetables. Stir everything gently, ensuring each ingredient is evenly distributed, making the Cucumber Celery Olive Odyssey Salad a delightful mix of flavors. Step 4: Combine with Chickpeas Now it’s time to incorporate the cooked garbanzo bean mixture into the salad bowl. Scrape all the oil and spices from the skillet into the bowl as well—this will enhance the overall flavor. Toss everything together lightly until all the ingredients are coated in the warm oil and spices, marrying the flavors beautifully in your Cucumber Celery Olive Odyssey Salad. Step 5: Dress the Salad Drizzle the remaining olive oil and freshly squeezed lemon juice over the salad, then season with sea salt and coarse ground pepper according to your taste. Gently toss everything once again to ensure all the ingredients are coated evenly with the dressing. This step enhances the freshness of your Cucumber Celery Olive Odyssey Salad and brings all the flavors together. Step 6: Chill Before Serving After preparing your salad, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for about an hour. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a more flavorful Cucumber Celery Olive Odyssey Salad. When ready to serve, give it a final toss to re-engage those vibrant flavors before enjoying your refreshing creation. How to Store and Freeze Cucumber Celery Olive Odyssey Salad Fridge: Store the Cucumber Celery Olive Odyssey Salad in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days. The flavors will continue to enhance over time, making it even more delightful! Freezer: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the salad for up to 1 month. However, the texture of the veggies may change upon thawing, so consider freezing the chickpea mixture separately. Reheating: If you’ve frozen the chickpeas, let them thaw overnight in the fridge. You can gently reheat them in a skillet to warm through before mixing with the salad. Serving Tip: After storing, give the salad a good toss and drizzle with a little extra olive oil and lemon juice before serving to refresh the flavors. Make Ahead Options These Cucumber Celery Olive Odyssey Salad is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the cucumbers, celery, carrots, red onions, and radishes up to 3 days in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their crunch. The garbanzo beans can also be sautéed ahead of time, allowing you to simply combine all ingredients together on the day you plan to serve. To keep the salad as fresh and vibrant as possible, mix the olives, dates, and dressing just before serving to prevent sogginess. This way, you’ll have a delightful and refreshing salad ready with minimal effort on busy weeknights! Cucumber Celery Olive Odyssey Salad Variations Feel free to make this delightful salad your own, with flavors and textures that cater to your taste buds! Feta Twist: Crumble feta cheese over the salad for a tangy, creamy surprise that elevates its Mediterranean flair. Add More Veggies: Go colorful by incorporating bell peppers or zucchini—every additional crunch enhances the salad’s appeal! Fruit Infusion: Toss in fresh pineapple or berries to bring extra juiciness and natural sweetness, creating a standout flavor profile. Lentil Alternative: Swap out chickpeas for cooked lentils or edamame for a unique texture and plant-based protein boost, keeping it heart-healthy. Spicy Kick: For those who love heat, add jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for an exciting zing. Nutty Flavor: Toss in some toasted walnuts or pecans for an unexpected crunch—nuts pair wonderfully with the underlying sweetness. Herb Medley: Experiment with fresh herbs like dill or mint in addition to or instead of basil, giving your salad a fresh twist. Creamy Dressing Option: Replace the olive oil and lemon juice with a yogurt-based dressing for a creamy finish that contrasts beautifully with the crunchy veggies. For more salad inspiration, why not explore the refreshing Caprese Cucumber Salad or the bold flavors of our Golden Girl Salad? Each dish invites your creative touch! Expert Tips for Cucumber Celery Olive Odyssey Salad Chickpea Quality: Ensure garbanzo beans are well-drained and rinsed. This prevents a mushy texture in your Cucumber Celery Olive Odyssey Salad. Spice Adjustments: Start with a small amount of harissa. If you prefer less heat, gradually add more to find your perfect balance without overwhelming the salad. Make Ahead: To save time, prepare your salad a few hours or even a day in advance. Just remember, for maximum crunch, the cucumber and celery are best enjoyed fresh! Mix and Match: Don’t hesitate to swap ingredients based on what’s in your fridge. Use leftover veggies or proteins to customize your Cucumber Celery Olive Odyssey Salad into something uniquely yours! Chill for Flavor: Always let your salad chill in the refrigerator for an hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing your Cucumber Celery Olive Odyssey Salad experience. What to Serve with Cucumber Celery Olive Odyssey Salad Want to elevate your dining experience with the perfect pairings for this vibrant dish? Grilled Chicken: Juicy, tender chicken provides a satisfying protein contrast to the crisp salad, making for a balanced meal. Quinoa Pilaf: A fluffy, nutty quinoa dish enhances the textures of the salad while adding extra fiber and heartiness. Fresh Pita Bread: Soft, warm pita envelopes all the vibrant flavors of the salad, perfect for scooping up each bite. Zucchini Fritters: These crispy, savory bites add warmth and a delightful crunch that complements the fresh medley wonderfully. Hummus Platter: A creamy, garlicky dip pairs exquisitely with the refreshing salad, offering a dip-and-scoop experience that everyone will love. Sparkling Water with Lemon: This refreshing drink cleanses the palate, making your meal feel light and rejuvenating. Mint Yogurt Sauce: This cool and creamy sauce echoes the freshness of the salad while adding a touch of tangy flavor. Fruit Salad: A bright mix of seasonal fruits offers a sweet contrast, rounding out your meal with a burst of natural sweetness. Cucumber Celery Olive Odyssey Salad Recipe FAQs How do I select ripe cucumbers and celery for my salad? Absolutely! When choosing cucumbers, look for ones that are firm, with a vibrant color and no dark spots or wrinkles. Mini cucumbers often have a sweeter flavor, while regular cucumbers need to be firm and well-shaped. For celery, aim for stalks that are crisp and free from brown spots at the ends. The leaves should be vibrant, indicating freshness! What’s the best way to store leftover salad? Very! Store your Cucumber Celery Olive Odyssey Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. This salad benefits from sitting, as the flavors meld beautifully. Before serving, give it a gentle toss, and if it seems a bit dry, you can drizzle in a bit more olive oil or lemon juice to refresh it. Can this salad be frozen? While it’s best fresh, you can freeze the chickpea mixture separately for up to 1 month. The vegetables’ texture may soften when thawed, so consider freezing only the cooked garbanzo beans after letting them cool fully. To use, thaw the beans overnight in the refrigerator and add them back to fresh veggies before serving. What should I do if my salad turns out too watery? No problem! If your Cucumber Celery Olive Odyssey Salad is watery, it’s likely due to cucumbers releasing moisture. To fix this, you can drain excess liquid before serving. In the future, consider salting cucumbers lightly and letting them sit for 10-15 minutes to draw out extra water before tossing them in your salad. Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of? Yes! This salad is naturally plant-based and heart-healthy as it contains high-fiber ingredients. If you’re preparing it for someone with nut allergies, check your olive and harissa brands, as some may contain traces. Additionally, this salad is pet-friendly, but avoid sharing chickpeas with pets as the seasoning may not be suitable for them. Can I substitute any ingredients to make it paleo or keto-friendly? Definitely! For a paleo version, omit the chickpeas and replace them with diced avocado or grilled chicken for healthy fats and protein. If you’re following a keto diet, you can reduce or eliminate the dates for a lower-sugar option and still enjoy the salad’s crunch and freshness with the other ingredients. Cucumber Celery Olive Odyssey Salad: A Flavorful Journey Experience a refreshing Cucumber Celery Olive Odyssey Salad that's a feast for the eyes and packed with nutrients. Perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 5 minutes minsChilling Time 1 hour hrTotal Time 1 hour hr 20 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: AppetizersCuisine: MediterraneanCalories: 210 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Salad¼ cup Olive Oil Substitute with avocado oil for a new twist.1 can Garbanzo Beans Rinsed before using.2 mini Cucumbers Regular cucumbers can be used, peeled if preferred.2 stalks Celery Adds a juicy crunch and hydration.2 medium Carrots Any variety, especially heirloom, works well.½ medium Red Onion Feel free to swap for green onions.½ cup Green Olives With Pimentos for saltiness.6 dates Dole Sunshine Dates Can be replaced with raisins or dried apricots.2 spring Green Onions Using green tops adds extra color.5 small Radishes Optional for a peppery crunch.1 cup Fresh Basil Parsley can be an excellent substitute.For the Dressing½ teaspoon Sea Salt Adjust to your taste preference.½ teaspoon Coarse Ground Pepper Essential seasoning.3 tablespoons Lemon Juice Fresh juice is key for brightness.1 teaspoon Harissa (Dry) Adjust quantity based on your heat preference.1 teaspoon Lemon Thyme Regular thyme can be used as an alternative. Equipment large mixing bowlCast-iron skillet Method Preparation StepsIn a large cast iron skillet over medium heat, pour in olive oil, add the rinsed garbanzo beans, and sprinkle in harissa. Cook for about 5 minutes until warmed through.In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped mini cucumbers, diced celery, shredded carrots, sliced red onions, and optional radishes. Toss together.Add the green olives, Dole Sunshine dates, and chopped green onions to the salad mixture. Stir gently to combine.Incorporate the cooked garbanzo bean mixture into the salad bowl. Toss everything together lightly.Drizzle remaining olive oil and lemon juice over the salad; season with salt and pepper. Toss again to coat evenly.Cover the bowl and refrigerate for about an hour to allow flavors to meld before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 210kcalCarbohydrates: 22gProtein: 6gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gSodium: 300mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 6gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 1500IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 60mgIron: 2mg NotesChickpeas should be well-drained and rinsed to prevent mushy texture. Adjust spice levels as desired and let the salad chill for enhanced flavor. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
