If you are searching for a refreshing and vibrant dish to enliven your meal, the Cucumber and Sweet Pepper Salad Recipe is an absolute winner. Bursting with color and flavor, this salad combines crisp Persian cucumbers with the sweet crunch of bell peppers, all tied together by a zingy, slightly sweet dressing. It’s perfect for hot days, quick lunches, or as a bright side that complements a host of dishes. What makes this recipe truly special is how effortlessly simple ingredients come together creating an explosion of fresh, satisfying taste that feels both light and indulgent.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for this salad is so straightforward, and each one is key to building the perfect balance of taste and texture. From the smooth olive oil to the gentle bite of ginger, every component plays its part in this vibrant dish.
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil: Adds richness and a smooth base for the dressing.
- ½ tablespoon rice vinegar: Brings a subtle acidity that brightens the flavors.
- ½ tablespoon sesame oil: Offers a nutty depth that complements the vegetables perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon soya sauce: Introduces a savory, umami note to the dressing.
- ½ tablespoon ginger, grated: Provides a fresh, zesty kick to lift the salad.
- 1½ tablespoons honey: Balances the acidity with a touch of natural sweetness.
- 7-8 mini sweet bell peppers (mixed colors), sliced into rings: Contribute crunch, sweetness, and a vibrant pop of color.
- 4 Persian cucumbers, sliced: Offer a crisp, cool texture essential for the salad’s refreshing quality.
- ¼ cup sesame ginger dressing: Enhances the salad further with a familiar flavor synergy.
- 1-2 tablespoons chili oil (depending on preference): Adds warmth and a little heat for those who like a kick.
- 2-3 teaspoons everything but the bagel seasoning: Sprinkles in a perfect combination of salt, garlic, and seeds for crunch and flavor complexity.
How to Make Cucumber and Sweet Pepper Salad Recipe
Step 1: Whisk the Dressing
Start by taking a small bowl and whisk together your olive oil, rice vinegar, sesame oil, soya sauce, grated ginger, and honey until they form a well-blended, aromatic dressing. This mixture is the backbone of flavor that will marry all the fresh ingredients beautifully.
Step 2: Combine the Vegetables
Add the sliced mini sweet bell peppers and Persian cucumbers into a large mixing or serving bowl. These crunchy vegetables bring a wonderful contrast in textures and a burst of color that makes the salad irresistible.
Step 3: Toss with Dressing
Pour your freshly whisked dressing over the cucumbers and peppers, then toss everything together thoroughly. Coating every bite ensures the flavors meld perfectly, delivering that signature tangy, sweet, and nutty taste throughout.
Step 4: Adjust and Season
Now, sprinkle in your chili oil and everything but the bagel seasoning. Depending on your preference for spice and seasoning intensity, feel free to adjust these to your liking. Toss again lightly to mix.
Step 5: Chill or Serve Immediately
You can serve the salad right away if you’re eager to dig in, or chill it in the fridge for a bit to let the flavors deepen. Either way, it’s a quick, fresh, and delightful dish ready in minutes.
How to Serve Cucumber and Sweet Pepper Salad Recipe
Garnishes
For a finishing touch, consider scattering some toasted sesame seeds or freshly chopped cilantro over the salad. These garnishes add a delightful crunch and a fragrant herbal note that pairs wonderfully with the sesame and ginger flavors.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs beautifully with grilled proteins like chicken, fish, or tofu, making it an ideal side for summer barbecues or light dinners. It also works superbly alongside fried rice or noodle dishes, providing a fresh contrast to richer flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For an impressive presentation, serve the salad in small glass jars or on individual plates with edible flowers for a festive touch. Layering the cucumber and sweet pepper salad under some microgreens or radish slices can also elevate the visual appeal, making it perfect for entertaining guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers of this cucumber and sweet pepper salad recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within 1-2 days to keep the vegetables crisp and the flavors fresh.
Freezing
This salad is not ideal for freezing due to the fresh cucumbers and peppers, which can become watery and lose their texture. It’s best to prepare it fresh or store in the fridge as mentioned above.
Reheating
Since this is a fresh, raw salad, reheating is not recommended. Instead, allow any chilled leftovers to come to room temperature if preferred before serving, which can bring out the flavors nicely.
FAQs
Can I substitute the mini sweet bell peppers with regular bell peppers?
Absolutely! Regular bell peppers work just fine. You might just want to slice them thinner since they tend to be larger and sometimes less tender than mini sweet peppers.
Is it possible to make this salad vegan?
Yes, this salad is naturally vegan as long as the honey is replaced with a plant-based sweetener like maple syrup or agave nectar.
What can I use if I don’t have Persian cucumbers?
Regular cucumbers can be used, though Persian cucumbers are preferred since they have fewer seeds and a thinner skin, which makes for a crisper salad texture.
How spicy is the salad with the chili oil?
The chili oil adds a gentle heat that you can control by adjusting the amount. Start with less if you’re sensitive to spice, and add more for a bolder kick.
Can I prepare the dressing ahead of time?
Definitely! The dressing can be made a day or two in advance. Give it a good whisk before tossing with the vegetables to ensure it’s well combined.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly satisfying about a salad that’s as easy to make as it is delicious, and the Cucumber and Sweet Pepper Salad Recipe delivers exactly that. Its vibrant colors, harmonious flavors, and refreshing crunch make it an instant favorite to whip up anytime you want something light yet flavorful. So go ahead and treat yourself and your loved ones to this delightful dish — you’re going to love every fresh, juicy bite!
Print
Cucumber and Sweet Pepper Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: International
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing and vibrant Cucumber and Sweet Pepper Salad, featuring a delightful blend of colorful mini sweet bell peppers and crisp Persian cucumbers tossed in a flavorful sesame ginger dressing with a spicy kick of chili oil and everything but the bagel seasoning. Ideal for a quick, healthy side dish or light meal.
Ingredients
Dressing
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- ½ tablespoon rice vinegar
- ½ tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon soya sauce
- ½ tablespoon ginger, grated
- 1½ tablespoons honey
Salad
- 7–8 mini sweet bell peppers (mixed colors), sliced into rings
- 4 Persian cucumbers, sliced
- ¼ cup sesame ginger dressing
- 1–2 tablespoons chili oil (depending on preference)
- 2–3 teaspoons everything but the bagel seasoning
Instructions
- Prepare Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, rice vinegar, sesame oil, soya sauce, grated ginger, and honey until well combined to create a flavorful dressing.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: Place the sliced mini sweet bell peppers and Persian cucumbers in a mixing or serving bowl and toss them together to blend the fresh flavors.
- Add Dressing and Seasoning: Pour in the prepared sesame ginger dressing, then add chili oil and sprinkle everything but the bagel seasoning over the salad. Toss again to coat all ingredients evenly, adjusting chili oil and seasoning to your taste preference.
- Serve: Serve the salad immediately to enjoy its crisp texture and fresh flavors, or chill it until ready to serve for a cool, refreshing dish.
Notes
- This salad is best served fresh but can be chilled for up to 2 hours before serving.
- Adjust the amount of chili oil according to your preferred level of spiciness.
- Everything but the bagel seasoning adds a savory crunch and can be substituted with toasted sesame seeds if unavailable.
- To keep the cucumbers crisp, slice them just before assembling the salad.
