This Fresh Cucumber and Sweet Pepper Salad is a burst of color and crunch! With cool cucumbers and sweet bell peppers, it’s a tasty treat that shines on any plate.
I love how quick and easy this salad is to make! Just chop, toss, and enjoy. Perfect for those hot days when you want something refreshing without turning on the stove!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Fresh cucumbers are essential for crunch! I recommend English cucumbers as they are less bitter and have fewer seeds. You can substitute with Persian cucumbers if you prefer, as they are also sweet and crunchy.
Sweet Bell Peppers: Any color works well—red, yellow, or orange all add a hint of sweetness. If you want a bit of heat, feel free to add sliced jalapeño or use a different mild pepper instead.
Red Onion: This ingredient adds a nice sharpness and color. If raw onion isn’t to your taste, substitute with green onions or shallots for a milder flavor. You can also skip it altogether if you prefer.
Fresh Herbs: Parsley and dill are perfect for garnishing. However, fresh cilantro or basil can also be great substitutes, depending on your personal preference.
How Do I Make the Dressing Just Right?
The dressing is key to elevating your salad! Start by whisking together lemon juice or vinegar with olive oil. If you like a bit of sweetness, add honey or sugar. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Mix the lemon juice and olive oil first, then gradually add honey or sugar, tasting as you go.
- Season generously with salt and pepper to balance the acidity of the lemon or vinegar.
- Opt for extra-virgin olive oil for a richer flavor; it really makes a difference!
Let the dressing rest for a few minutes before tossing it with the salad to ensure all flavors blend beautifully.
Fresh Cucumber and Sweet Pepper Salad
Ingredients:
- 2 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 large sweet bell pepper (red, yellow, or orange), thinly sliced
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice or white vinegar
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon honey or sugar (optional for a touch of sweetness)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or dill, chopped (optional for garnish)
Time Estimate:
This refreshing salad takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare. Just a little chopping, mixing, and letting the flavors combine for a delightful side dish that pairs well with any meal!
Detailed Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
Start by washing the cucumbers and bell pepper thoroughly to remove any dirt or residue. Once clean, slice the cucumbers into thin rounds and the bell pepper into thin strips. If you choose to use red onion, slice it thinly as well.
2. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cucumber slices, bell pepper strips, and the optional red onion. This colorful mix will be the base of your salad!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together fresh lemon juice (or vinegar), olive oil, honey (or sugar), salt, and pepper. This will create a bright and tasty dressing that brings everything together.
4. Toss the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the vegetables in the large bowl. Gently toss the salad to ensure all the pieces are coated with the delicious dressing.
5. Let It Marinate:
Allow the salad to sit for about 10-15 minutes. This resting time helps the flavors meld beautifully together, enhancing the overall taste.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle the salad with chopped fresh parsley or dill for some extra color and flavor. Serve the salad chilled, and enjoy your refreshing dish, perfect as a side for any meal!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Other Types of Bell Peppers?
Absolutely! While red, yellow, and orange bell peppers are sweetest, you can use green bell peppers for a more peppery flavor. Feel free to mix different colors for a vibrant salad!
How Do I Store Leftover Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The cucumbers may lose some crunch over time, but the flavors will still be delicious. If you plan to save it, consider adding the dressing just before serving to maintain freshness!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad ingredients a few hours in advance! Just chop the vegetables and make the dressing separately. Combine them closer to serving time to keep the salad crunchy and fresh.
What Other Ingredients Can I Add?
Feel free to get creative! You can add ingredients like cherry tomatoes, avocado, feta cheese, or olives for added flavor and texture. Just be sure to adjust the dressing to balance the new flavors!
