This crisp cucumber and sweet pepper salad is a burst of colors and flavors! It’s light, healthy, and perfect for a hot day. You’ll love the crunchy veggies paired with a zesty dressing!
Making this salad is so easy! I just chop everything up, toss it together, and enjoy. It’s my go-to dish for picnics. Plus, you can’t beat the refreshing taste—it’s like a veggie party in my mouth! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: These are the star of the salad! I prefer English cucumbers for their thin skin and fewer seeds. You can also use regular cucumbers, but give them a good peel if they’re waxed.
Bell Peppers: I love the mix of red, yellow, and orange peppers for color and sweetness. If you’re short on one color, use green peppers, though they have a more bitter taste. You can even swap in other veggies like cherry tomatoes!
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brightens up the salad! If you’re not a fan, try parsley or basil for a different flavor. You can even omit the herbs if you prefer a simpler taste.
Vinegar: I use rice vinegar for its mildness, but apple cider vinegar works great too. If you want a unique twist, try using a flavored vinegar like balsamic or even lemon juice!
How Do I Get the Right Crunch in My Salad?
To ensure you have a perfect crunch, choose fresh and firm cucumbers and bell peppers. Slice them thinly, as it helps them mix well with the dressing while keeping that satisfying bite. Here are some tips:
- Use a sharp knife to get clean cuts; a dull knife can crush the veggies.
- For even more crunch, chill the veggies in the fridge before mixing. This makes the salad extra refreshing!
- Don’t skip the resting time after dressing—this allows your veggies to soak in some flavor while retaining their texture.
Refreshing Cucumber and Sweet Pepper Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Fresh Vegetables:
- 2 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 orange bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 2 celery stalks, thinly sliced
For the Dressing and Extras:
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tbsp sesame seeds
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- A pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for a subtle kick)
How Much Time Will You Need?
Overall, this refreshing salad will take about 15 minutes to prepare. It’s super quick to chop the veggies, mix the dressing, and let it all sit to soak up the flavors. Perfect for a busy day or when you want a last-minute dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
Start by washing your cucumbers and bell peppers. Once clean, thinly slice them along with the celery. You want nice, uniform pieces for an appealing look and even flavor distribution. Toss all the sliced veggies into a large mixing bowl.
2. Add Fresh Ingredients:
Next, chop the fresh cilantro and sprinkle it into the bowl with your veggies. Add in the sesame seeds for a delightful crunch. The colors are coming together beautifully already!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, rice or apple cider vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Make sure it’s nice and smooth, blending all the flavors well.
4. Combine and Toss:
Pour the dressing over your veggie mixture. Gently toss everything together, making sure the dressing coats each piece. You want that lovely zesty flavor to reach all the veggies.
5. Let It Rest:
Allow the salad to sit for about 10-15 minutes. This resting will help the flavors meld beautifully, and the cucumbers will soften just a bit while staying crunchy!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, you can serve this salad chilled or at room temperature. It makes for a perfect side dish or light lunch. Dive in and enjoy this vibrant salad that will brighten your day!
FAQ for Refreshing Cucumber and Sweet Pepper Salad
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other veggies like cherry tomatoes, carrots, or radishes. You can also add red onion for a bit of sharpness. Just make sure to cut everything into similar-sized pieces for even flavor and texture.
How Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
This recipe is already vegan! The honey can be substituted with maple syrup for a completely plant-based option. Enjoy the same sweetness without any animal products!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The salad may release some liquids over time, so give it a quick toss before serving again to mix the dressing with the veggies.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! You can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. Just wait to add the dressing until about 15 minutes before serving to keep the veggies fresh and crisp. If preparing a day in advance, add a bit more dressing as the veggies will absorb some of it overnight.
