This Fresh Cucumber and Sweet Pepper Salad bursts with color and crunch! It combines cool cucumbers and sweet peppers with a light dressing—perfect for a hot day.
Honestly, it’s like a garden party in a bowl! 🥗 I love serving it alongside grilled meats or just enjoying it as a refreshing snack.
Making this salad is a breeze: just chop your veggies, mix them all together, and you’re set. I often add a squeeze of lemon for a zesty twist. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Use small cucumbers or pickling cucumbers for a crunchier texture. If you can’t find them, English cucumbers work well too. They’re typically seedless and have a thinner skin. I often prefer English cucumbers for their mild flavor.
Bell Peppers: This recipe shines with sweet bell peppers—red, orange, and yellow add great color and sweetness. If you prefer less sweetness, green bell peppers are a good substitute! You could also try using other vibrant peppers like poblano or banana peppers for a twist.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil gives the salad richness. If you’re looking for a different flavor, avocado oil or a light sesame oil could also be tasty choices. Just make sure to choose an oil with a flavor you enjoy.
Vinegar: Red wine vinegar adds a nice tang. If you don’t have that, apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar could work too! Just remember that balsamic has a sweeter taste.
How Do I Make the Vegetables Stand Out?
The key to a great salad is prepping your vegetables well. Here are some tips:
- Slice cucumbers about 1/4 inch thick for the perfect crunch. This makes them easy to eat and adds a nice texture.
- For the bell peppers, the thinner you slice, the more they coat with the dressing! Aim for thin strips or rings for the best presentation.
- Let the salad rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors mix and the cucumbers release some of their juices, creating a light dressing.
Feel free to be creative! Adding fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can elevate your salad even more. Enjoy making it your own!
Fresh Cucumber and Sweet Pepper Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 small cucumbers, sliced into rounds
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced into rings or strips
- 1 orange bell pepper, thinly sliced into rings or strips
- 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced into rings or strips
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 garlic clove, minced (optional)
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds or pine nuts (optional for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This fresh salad takes about 10 minutes for prep and can rest for an additional 10-15 minutes to let the flavors blend. So, you can have it ready in about 20-25 minutes—perfect for a quick snack or side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
Start by washing the cucumbers and bell peppers thoroughly. Slice the cucumbers into 1/4 inch thick rounds and slice the bell peppers into thin rings or strips for a beautiful presentation. This colorful array will make your salad look so inviting!
2. Whisk the Dressing:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, honey or maple syrup, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, pepper, and minced garlic if you choose to add it. This simple dressing is the magic ingredient that brings all the flavors together.
3. Combine the Ingredients:
Now, add the sliced cucumbers and bell peppers to the bowl with the dressing. Toss everything gently but thoroughly to ensure all the veggies are coated with the dressing—this is where the magic happens!
4. Let It Marinate:
For the best flavor, let the salad sit at room temperature for at least 10-15 minutes. This allows the ingredients to soak in the dressing and enhances the taste of your salad.
5. Add the Finishing Touches:
Just before serving, sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds or pine nuts on top for that extra crunch and a nutty flavor boost. It’s a delightful way to elevate your salad!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, serve this vibrant salad fresh as a side dish or enjoy it on its own for a light and refreshing snack. This salad is not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes with its bright colors!
Enjoy the crisp and tangy flavors of this Fresh Cucumber and Sweet Pepper Salad! It’s a perfect addition to any meal or a refreshing treat on its own!
FAQ for Fresh Cucumber and Sweet Pepper Salad
Can I Use Different Types of Peppers?
Absolutely! You can mix up the bell peppers based on your preference or what you have on hand. Green bell peppers provide a slight bitterness, while other varieties like poblano or banana peppers can add a unique twist!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The salad may become a bit soggy as it sits, but giving it a brief toss before serving can help refresh it.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. Just remember to add any crunchy toppings, like sesame seeds or nuts, just before serving to keep them from getting soggy.
What Can I Add for Extra Protein?
For a heartier dish, consider adding cooked chickpeas, diced grilled chicken, or feta cheese. These additions will complement the flavors and make it a more filling meal!
