This cucumber and sweet pepper salad is crisp and colorful, perfect for a hot day! With fresh cucumbers, juicy peppers, and a splash of tangy dressing, it’s super refreshing.
I love making this salad in just minutes. It adds crunch to any meal and makes me feel great! Trust me, a little sprinkle of salt and pepper really brings it to life! 🥒✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Fresh, crunchy cucumbers are the star of this salad. If you prefer a different flavor, try using English cucumbers or even Persian cucumbers, which are smaller and often sweeter.
Sweet Bell Peppers: Any color works well, whether it’s red, yellow, or green. If you’re looking for a spicy twist, substitute with jalapeños or other mild peppers, just adjust the amount to your heat preference!
Red Onion: The onion adds a bit of bite. If raw onions are too strong for you, consider using green onions or chives for a milder flavor. You can also skip it altogether if you prefer.
Fresh Herbs: I love using parsley for its bright, fresh flavor. Cilantro works great too! If you want to switch it up, try dill or mint for a different taste.
How Do You Make the Dressing Just Right?
The dressing is simple but essential for bringing all the flavors together. Mixing lemon juice with olive oil gives a fresh tang that pairs beautifully with the veggies.
- Start with fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
- Whisk in olive oil gradually to create an emulsion. This helps the dressing stick to the vegetables.
- Adding honey or maple syrup is optional but gives a nice touch of sweetness to balance the acidity.
- Taste as you go! Don’t hesitate to adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper.
Allowing the salad to sit for 10-15 minutes lets the flavors blend beautifully. Enjoy your refreshing side dish!
Refreshing Cucumber and Sweet Pepper Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Fresh Vegetables:
- 2 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 2 sweet bell peppers (any color), thinly sliced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional for slight sweetness)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend a quick 5-10 minutes on slicing and chopping, and then just let it sit for 10-15 minutes to let the flavors mingle before serving. It’s simple and quick!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Wash and Slice:
Start by washing your cucumbers and sweet peppers thoroughly. Then, slice the cucumbers and bell peppers into thin, uniform pieces. If you’re using red onion, slice that thinly too. The thinner the slices, the easier it will be to eat!
2. Combine Vegetables:
In a large mixing bowl, add the sliced cucumbers, sweet bell peppers, red onion (if using), and chopped parsley or cilantro. Give everything a gentle toss to mix the vegetables together.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice and olive oil. If you like a hint of sweetness, add in the honey or maple syrup. Mix well until combined! This dressing will give your salad a bright, fresh flavor.
4. Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the combined vegetables in the bowl. Toss everything together gently so that the dressing coats all the veggies evenly. This step is important for making sure every bite is delicious!
5. Season:
Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remember, you can always add more later, so start with a little and adjust as needed.
6. Allow to Marinate:
Let the salad sit for about 10-15 minutes at room temperature. This allows the flavors to blend nicely, making every bite even tastier!
7. Serve & Enjoy:
Your refreshing cucumber and sweet pepper salad is now ready to serve! You can enjoy it chilled or at room temperature as a delightful side dish with any meal.
Bon appétit and enjoy your crisp and vibrant salad!
FAQ About Refreshing Cucumber and Sweet Pepper Salad
Can I Use Different Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other crunchy vegetables like carrots, radishes, or even cherry tomatoes. Just keep the shapes similar to ensure even dressing distribution!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Salad?
Leftover salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the cucumbers may release moisture, so it’s best to eat it fresh for optimal crunch!
Can I Make This Salad in Advance?
You can prepare the ingredients and dressing a few hours ahead, but it’s best to toss them together just before serving to keep the veggies crisp. If they’re mixed too early, they can become soggy from the dressing!
What Can I Substitute for Honey or Maple Syrup?
If you’re looking for a different sweetener, agave syrup or coconut sugar work well too! You can also omit the sweetener entirely for a more tart dressing if you prefer.
