This refreshing salad is a perfect mix of crunchy cucumbers and sweet peppers. It’s light and bursting with flavor, making it a great side dish or a quick snack!
Honestly, I can’t get enough of those vibrant colors on my plate! đ Itâs super easy to whip upâjust chop, toss, and enjoy! Perfect for hot days or anytime you need a tasty lift!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: For the best crunch, I recommend using English cucumbers, as they have fewer seeds and thinner skin. If they’re not available, regular cucumbers will work tooâjust peel them if you prefer!
Sweet Bell Peppers: You can use any color of sweet bell peppersâred, yellow, or orange are all great. If you’re looking to cut costs, feel free to swap in green bell peppers, but they can be a bit bitter. For a fun twist, try mini sweet peppers!
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil provides the best flavor, but you can use other oils like avocado oil or even a lighter oil if thatâs what you have on hand.
Fresh Herbs: Parsley or cilantro adds a fresh touch. If you don’t have them, consider using dried herbs like dill or basil, adjusting the amount since dried herbs are more potent.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice really brightens up the salad! If you don’t have any, lime juice or even vinegar can work in a pinch.
How Can I Make My Salad Extra Flavorful?
Making your dressing from scratch is key to elevating the taste of this salad. It’s super simple! Just whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, vinegar (if using), oregano, red pepper flakes, plus salt and pepper. Adjust seasoning based on your taste.
- Use a good ratio of oil to acid, usually 2:1. This keeps it creamy and delicious!
- Don’t skip letting the salad rest for 10-15 minutes. This lets the flavors mix well together and brings out the best in the veggies.
- If you want a little zing, add a dash of dijon mustard into the dressing for a tasty kick.
Remember, a little experimentation can lead to delightful surprises in your salads!
Refreshing Cucumber and Sweet Pepper Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Fresh Vegetables:
- 2 medium cucumbers, sliced into rounds
- 1 red sweet bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 yellow sweet bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)
Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a mild kick)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Garnish:
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds or hemp seeds (optional, for garnish)
Time Estimate:
This salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. It’s quick to put together so you can enjoy a delicious and refreshing dish in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
Start by washing the cucumbers and sweet bell peppers. Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds, ensuring they are all about the same thickness for consistent texture. If your cucumbers are watery, pat them dry with paper towels to keep your salad crisp.
2. Slice the Peppers:
Next, thinly slice the red and yellow sweet bell peppers into strips. The vibrant colors will make your salad even more appealing!
3. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers and sweet peppers. If you like, add the chopped fresh parsley or cilantro to bring in a fresh herbal flavor.
4. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar (if you’re using it), dried oregano, red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Make sure everything is well mixed!
5. Drizzle and Toss:
Pour your homemade dressing over the cucumber and pepper mixture. Gently toss everything together until all the vegetables are nicely coated in the dressing.
6. Let it Marinate:
Let the salad sit for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Before serving, sprinkle the top with sesame or hemp seeds, if you like a little nuttiness. Enjoy your refreshing salad chilled or at room temperature!
This salad is not only healthy but also colorful and delightful on the eyes! Perfect for a quick snack or a lovely side dish. Enjoy!
FAQ for Refreshing Cucumber and Sweet Pepper Salad
Can I Use Different Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match vegetables. Other great options include cherry tomatoes, grated carrots, or radishes. Just keep the overall balance in mind for a satisfying crunch!
Can I Make This Salad in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours ahead of serving. However, itâs best to add the dressing just before serving to keep the cucumbers crisp. If making in advance, store the dressing separately in the fridge.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the cucumbers may release some water, so itâs best enjoyed fresh. You can add more dressing if needed when serving leftover salad.
How Can I Make This Salad Spicier?
If you like a little heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes in the dressing or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also include sliced jalapeños or serrano peppers for an extra kick!
