This colorful salad features crunchy cucumbers and sweet, juicy peppers, making it a refreshing side dish. It’s vibrant, crisp, and full of flavor!
Just toss the veggies together with a little dressing, and you’re ready to go! I love serving this at picnics—it always disappears first! 🥒🌶️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Fresh cucumbers add crunch and hydration. You can use English cucumbers for less seeds or Persian cucumbers for a sweeter taste. If you want a twist, try zucchini instead!
Sweet Bell Peppers: Any color works here—red, yellow, or orange for sweetness, or green for a slightly bitter flavor. If you’re looking for heat, try using jalapeños or a sweet chili pepper.
Red Onion: This ingredient adds a sharpness to the salad, but it’s optional. You can substitute with green onions for a milder taste, or leave it out completely if you prefer.
Herbs: Fresh parsley or cilantro brighten the salad. If you don’t have these on hand, dill or basil can bring a lovely flavor as well.
Olive Oil and Acid: Extra virgin olive oil is ideal for dressing. You can swap it with avocado oil, and for acidity, use lime juice instead of lemon for a different flavor.
How Can I Make the Most Delicious Dressing?
Creating a tasty dressing is key to this salad! Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start by measuring 2 tablespoons of olive oil into a small bowl.
- Add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. This will balance the oil’s richness.
- If you prefer some sweetness, mix in 1 teaspoon of honey or sugar. It balances the tang.
- Add salt and pepper to taste; don’t be afraid to adjust based on your preferences!
- Whisk until well combined. This allows the flavors to blend nicely.
Pour this dressing over your salad just before serving for the best taste and texture. Enjoy! 🌟
Fresh Cucumber and Sweet Pepper Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Fresh Ingredients:
- 2 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 2 sweet bell peppers (any color), thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice or white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey or sugar (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare. With no cooking involved, it’s a quick and easy side dish that can be ready in a flash!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Vegetables:
Start by washing and then thinly slicing the cucumbers. You want them nice and crisp! Next, slice the sweet bell peppers into thin strips. If you’re adding red onion, slice it up too. The thinner the slices, the easier they are to mix into the salad!
2. Combine the Fresh Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, bell peppers, your optional red onion, and chopped herbs. You can use either parsley for a mild flavor or cilantro for a zestier touch. Mix it up to get all the beautiful colors together!
3. Whisk Up the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice (or vinegar), and honey (if you’d like a hint of sweetness). Then, sprinkle in some salt and pepper. Whisk until everything is nicely blended—this dressing is what brings everything together!
4. Dress the Salad:
Now, pour the dressing over the vegetable mix in your large bowl. Toss it gently so every piece gets coated without breaking down the veggies. This is where the magic happens!
5. Let It Sit:
Let the salad sit for about 10-15 minutes. This helps the flavors meld and makes it even tastier. It’s a perfect time to set the table or serve other dishes!
6. Serve It Up:
Enjoy your fresh cucumber and sweet pepper salad chilled or at room temperature. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, sandwiches, or even as a light snack!
Bon appétit! 🥗✨
Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other crunchy veggies like carrots, radishes, or even corn for extra sweetness. You can also include leafy greens like spinach or arugula for added nutrition and flavor!
How Long Does This Salad Last in the Fridge?
This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just keep in mind that the veggies may become a bit soft over time.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare it a few hours in advance! Just wait to add the dressing until you’re ready to serve, as it keeps the vegetables crunchier and fresher. Alternatively, you can mix the salad ingredients and store them separately from the dressing.
What Can I Serve with This Salad?
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or as a side for sandwiches. It also makes a great addition to picnic spreads or barbecues. Enjoy it as a refreshing side dish!
