This refreshing cucumber and sweet pepper salad is a colorful mix that’s perfect for hot days! It’s crunchy, light, and has a zesty dressing that brings everything together.
You can whip this up in no time! I love serving it at barbecues—everyone always comes back for seconds. Plus, it’s a breeze to make, which gives me more time to enjoy with friends! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Fresh cucumbers add a crisp texture and refreshing taste. If you’re in a pinch, you can swap them for zucchini or radishes for a similar crunch.
Bell Peppers: Red and yellow peppers are sweet and colorful. You can mix in green or orange peppers, or even use thinly sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
Fresh Herbs: I love using cilantro for its bright flavor, but parsley works well too! If you prefer, try using fresh dill or mint for a different twist.
Sesame Seeds: These add a lovely nutty flavor and crunch. If you don’t have sesame seeds, try sunflower seeds or chopped nuts for some extra texture.
Sweetener: Honey is great for a hint of sweetness, but maple syrup is a nice alternative for a vegan option. Agave syrup or even a bit of sugar can work too!
What’s the Best Way to Prepare the Vegetables for Salad?
Slicing your vegetables correctly can change the overall texture and appearance of the salad. Here’s how to make sure your cucumbers and peppers are perfect:
- For cucumbers, using a sharp knife or a mandoline helps achieve even slices. Thin slices make for a lighter texture and better flavor absorption.
- For bell peppers, cut off the top, bottom, and sides to remove the core easily. Then, slice them into strips for a beautiful presentation.
Preparation is key: the quicker you can cut and chill the salad, the fresher it will taste when served. Enjoy the process!
Refreshing Cucumber and Sweet Pepper Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- Optional: pinch of red chili flakes or sumac for extra zest
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare, and it only needs a quick chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes. So, in just about half an hour, you can have this delicious side dish ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Vegetables:
Begin by washing your cucumbers and bell peppers thoroughly under cool running water. This ensures they are clean and ready to eat. After that, thinly slice the cucumbers into rounds and cut the bell peppers into thin strips. Aim for equal sizes to ensure even mixing and flavor absorption!
2. Combine the Base:
Now, take a large mixing bowl and add in the sliced cucumbers and bell peppers. This is where all the magic happens, so make sure to choose a bowl that’s big enough to allow for tossing later on.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a separate smaller bowl, whisk together the olive oil, rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar), honey (or maple syrup), salt, and ground black pepper. This dressing will bring all the flavors together, making your salad taste amazing!
4. Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the cucumber and pepper mixture, and toss gently to coat all the pieces evenly. Take your time with this step to ensure every bite is full of flavor!
5. Add the Finishing Touches:
Once thoroughly mixed, sprinkle the chopped cilantro or parsley over the salad and toss again. Finish by adding the sesame seeds and, if you like a kick, a pinch of red chili flakes or sumac for an extra zing.
6. Chill and Serve:
Cover the salad and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes. This short resting time allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, enjoy this salad cold as a refreshing side dish that’s perfect for any occasion!
This salad is not just visually appealing with its vibrant colors but is also a delicious, crunchy, and healthy addition to any meal. Enjoy the fresh flavors and happy eating! 😊
FAQ for Refreshing Cucumber and Sweet Pepper Salad
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Salad?
Absolutely! You can swap the cucumbers for zucchini or radishes for a different crunch. Any sweet bell peppers can be used, and adding other veggies like cherry tomatoes or shredded carrots can enhance flavor and texture.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
You can store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just keep in mind that the vegetables may lose some crunch, so it’s best enjoyed fresh!
Can I Make This Salad in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the salad up to a day in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain the crunchiness of the veggies. Toss it together right before serving for the best taste!
What Can I Substitute for Honey?
If you prefer a vegan option, maple syrup is a great substitute. You can also use agave syrup or coconut sugar. Just make sure to adjust the amount to your taste, as some sweeteners are sweeter than others!
