When you think of summer salads, the Cucumber Sweet Pepper Salad reigns supreme, bursting with vibrant colors and fresh flavors. Imagine a bowl filled with crisp cucumber slices mingling with the sweet crunch of colorful bell peppers, all drizzled in a tangy dressing that dances on your taste buds. Thai Chicken Salad Cold Cucumber Chicken Salad Cucumber Everything Bagel Salad. Spring Roll Salad with Ginger Dressing.
I remember the first time I made this salad during a family picnic; it was a hit! The kids devoured it while my aunt insisted it was “the best thing since sliced bread.” Perfect for barbecues, potlucks, or just because you want to feel fancy on a Tuesday afternoon, this salad promises to elevate any occasion.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This refreshing Cucumber Sweet Pepper Salad is incredibly easy to whip up, making meal prep a breeze
- Its vibrant colors and crunchy textures create an eye-catching dish for your table
- The flavor profile bursts with freshness, thanks to the crisp veggies and zesty dressing
- Versatile enough to be served as an appetizer or side dish, it pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or sandwiches
My friends couldn’t stop raving about how refreshing and delicious this salad is at our last gathering.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Cucumbers: Choose firm cucumbers for the best crunch; Persian cucumbers are especially delightful in salads.
Bell Peppers: Use a mix of red, yellow, and green for color and sweetness; they add both flavor and visual appeal.
Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onion adds a sharp bite; soak them in water first if you want to mellow the flavor.
Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley brightens up the salad; opt for fresh rather than dried for maximum flavor.
Olive Oil: A drizzle of good quality olive oil enhances all ingredients; use extra virgin for richer taste.
Red Wine Vinegar: This adds acidity that balances the sweetness of the peppers; feel free to substitute with lemon juice. For more inspiration, check out this grilled salmon with avocado recipe.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that bring all flavors together; remember to taste and adjust as needed.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prep Your Veggies: Start by washing your cucumbers and bell peppers thoroughly under running water. Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds and chop bell peppers into bite-sized pieces. Aim for uniform sizes so they mix well.
Add Aromatics: Next, grab that red onion. Slice it thinly—like you’re trying to impress someone at a cooking class. If the raw onion’s bite is too much, soak those slices in cold water for about 10 minutes before adding them to your bowl.
Mix It Up: In a large mixing bowl, toss together the cucumbers, bell peppers, red onion slices, and chopped parsley. The colors should pop like confetti at a party!
Create Your Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil and red wine vinegar until fully combined. Add salt and pepper to taste—don’t skimp on seasoning!
Toss & Serve: Pour the dressing over your veggie mixture and toss gently until everything is well coated. Serve immediately or let it chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes for even better flavor infusion.
This Cucumber Sweet Pepper Salad is all about fresh ingredients coming together harmoniously—a perfect complement to any meal! Enjoy every colorful crunch! For more inspiration, check out this chicken burrito bowls recipe.
You Must Know
- This refreshing Cucumber Sweet Pepper Salad not only adds color to your plate but also packs a delicious crunch
- The zesty dressing elevates the flavors, making it perfect for summer barbecues or a light lunch
- It’s quick to prepare, making it a go-to for busy days
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by chopping the cucumbers and sweet peppers before mixing them with the dressing for even coating. Prepare the dressing while the veggies are resting to enhance their flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out sweet peppers for colorful bell peppers or add feta cheese for creaminess. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or cilantro can elevate the salad’s freshness.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Avoid reheating as this salad is best enjoyed cold and crisp.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use firm cucumbers to avoid mushiness and ensure a satisfying crunch
- Always taste your dressing before adding it to the salad to adjust flavors
- Chilling your salad for an hour enhances its refreshing qualities, perfect for hot days
Sharing this recipe with friends at a picnic turned into a delightful surprise as they kept asking for seconds—definitely made me feel like a culinary superstar!
FAQ
What type of cucumbers work best for Cucumber Sweet Pepper Salad?
English cucumbers are ideal due to their thin skin and fewer seeds.
Can I make Cucumber Sweet Pepper Salad ahead of time?
Yes, just add dressing right before serving to keep it fresh and crunchy.
What can I add to make this salad more filling?
Consider adding chickpeas or quinoa for a protein boost that complements the veggies beautifully.
Cucumber Sweet Pepper Salad
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Cucumber Sweet Pepper Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish perfect for summer gatherings. Bursting with crisp cucumbers, colorful bell peppers, and zesty dressing, this salad is not only visually appealing but also incredibly easy to prepare. Whether served as a side at barbecues or enjoyed as a light lunch, this salad will elevate any meal. With its delightful crunch and fresh flavors, it’s sure to be a hit at your next gathering!
Ingredients
- 2 cups diced cucumbers (about 2 medium cucumbers)
- 1 cup diced mixed bell peppers (red, yellow, green)
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash the cucumbers and bell peppers. Slice cucumbers into thin rounds and chop bell peppers into bite-sized pieces.
- Thinly slice the red onion; if desired, soak in cold water for 10 minutes to reduce sharpness.
- In a large bowl, combine cucumbers, bell peppers, red onion, and parsley.
- In a separate bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Pour the dressing over the vegetable mixture and toss gently until coated. Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving for enhanced flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
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