Cucumber Sweet Pepper Salad
This Cucumber Sweet Pepper Salad is a fresh, crunchy, and colorful dish that’s perfect for hot days or as a light, healthy side to any meal. The combination of crisp cucumbers, sweet bell peppers, and a simple tangy dressing creates a refreshing salad that’s bursting with flavor! It’s quick, easy, and can be made ahead of time.
Ingredients:
2 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced
2 sweet bell peppers (any color: red, yellow, or orange), thinly sliced
1/4 red onion, thinly sliced (optional for extra bite)
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (or basil for a twist)
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
1 teaspoon honey (or maple syrup for a vegan version)
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for extra flavor)
A squeeze of lemon juice (optional for added freshness)
Instructions:
Prep the Vegetables:
Slice the cucumbers and bell peppers into thin strips or rounds, depending on your preference. If you’re using a red onion, slice it thinly as well.
Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, honey, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. If you like a little extra zing, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
Combine Everything:
In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, sweet peppers, and red onion (if using). Pour the dressing over the veggies and toss to coat everything evenly.
Add Fresh Herbs:
Toss in the chopped parsley (or basil) and give the salad another gentle mix.
Chill and Serve:
Let the salad sit in the fridge for about 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. You can also make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for a few hours (or up to a day) before serving.
Storage:
To Store:
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. The veggies will stay crisp, but the flavors will get even better the longer they marinate in the dressing.
Frequently Asked Questions (Q/A):
1. Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Absolutely! You can add other crunchy veggies like celery, radishes, or even shredded carrots for extra color and texture.
2. Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free! Just make sure to double-check any dressings or other additions you use if you’re following a gluten-free diet.
3. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad is perfect for making ahead. In fact, it gets even better as it sits in the fridge for a couple of hours, allowing the flavors to blend together.
4. Can I make this salad without vinegar?
If you’re not a fan of vinegar, you can substitute it with lemon juice or a mild, sweet dressing like balsamic glaze or a creamy ranch-style dressing.
5. How can I make the salad spicier?
If you like heat, you can add sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the salad for an extra kick!
Tips for the Best Cucumber Sweet Pepper Salad:
Slice the veggies thinly to get the perfect texture and allow the dressing to coat them evenly.
Chill the salad for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to come together.
Use fresh herbs like parsley or basil to add a pop of flavor and color. You could also try dill for a more classic cucumber salad taste.