This bright and crunchy salad is a refreshing mix of fresh cucumbers and sweet bell peppers. It’s colorful and perfect for hot days, making it a great side dish!
Honestly, who can resist that crisp bite? I love to toss it with a light dressing for extra flavor. A big bowl of this salad always makes me feel good! 🥒🌶️
This salad is quick to whip up. I often make it in just a few minutes, and it pairs perfectly with grilled meals. You’ll see, it’ll be the hit of your table!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Fresh cucumbers are a must for this salad! If you can’t find them, pickling cucumbers also work well. I usually prefer English cucumbers because they are sweeter and have fewer seeds.
Bell Peppers: Red and yellow bell peppers add lovely color and sweetness. If you want to mix it up, try green or orange peppers, or even roasted red peppers for a different taste.
Red Onion: This adds a nice sharpness. If you find raw onion too strong, you can soak slices in cold water for a few minutes to mellow the flavor.
Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley brightens the dish. For variety, try fresh cilantro or basil, both of which add their own unique twist!
Dressing Ingredients: Olive oil and vinegar are classic, but if you want a creamier option, you could use a dollop of Greek yogurt instead of vinegar for a rich flavor.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from My Salad?
To bring out the best flavors in your salad, let it sit for a little while after tossing it with the dressing. This rest period allows the veggies to absorb the flavors.
- Combine all the vegetables in a bowl before adding the dressing.
- Whisk the dressing separately to ensure it’s well mixed.
- After dressing the salad, give it a light toss and let it sit for 10-15 minutes.
- This time is key—trust me, it makes a difference!
Finally, always taste your salad before serving. You might find it needs a pinch more salt or a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten it up!
Fresh Cucumber and Sweet Pepper Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 medium cucumbers, sliced into rounds
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar (or lemon juice)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare and an additional 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. In just 25 minutes, you’ll have a fresh and delicious side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
Start by washing the cucumbers and slicing them into rounds. For the bell peppers, slice them thinly to maximize the crunch. Don’t forget to peel and slice the red onion! You want all the vegetables to be bite-sized for easy eating.
2. Combine in a Bowl:
Take a large salad bowl and toss in the cucumber slices, red and yellow bell pepper strips, and red onion slices. This mix of colors already makes it look tasty!
3. Add Fresh Parsley:
Scatter the chopped fresh parsley over the vegetables in the bowl. It adds a lovely pop of green and some freshness to the salad.
4. Whisk Up the Dressing:
In a small bowl, combine the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar (or lemon juice), dried oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes (if you want a little heat). Season it with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Give it a good whisk until it’s well blended.
5. Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the salad mixture in the large bowl. Gently toss everything together, so the vegetables are nicely coated without getting smashed.
6. Let It Chill:
Allow the salad to sit for about 10-15 minutes. This helps the flavors blend and makes every bite delicious!
7. Taste and Adjust:
Before serving, take a taste. You can add more salt, pepper, or even a splash of lemon juice if you’d like. Adjust it to your flavor preferences!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, serve the salad chilled or at room temperature. It makes a perfect refreshing side dish for any meal, especially during warm weather or alongside grilled dishes!
This vibrant salad combines crunchy cucumbers and sweet peppers with a tangy, herby dressing, bringing together fresh flavors that everyone will love!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other veggies like cherry tomatoes, grated carrots, or radishes for extra crunch and color. Just make sure to keep the textures similar for the best experience!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’ll stay fresh for about 2-3 days. Just remember that the cucumbers may release some water, so it’s best to eat it sooner rather than later!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the salad a few hours in advance, but it’s best to add the dressing just before serving. This keeps the vegetables crisp and prevents them from getting soggy.
What Can I Serve This Salad With?
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or burgers. It also works well as a refreshing side for picnics and barbecues, providing a nice contrast to heavier dishes!
