This crunchy salad pairs fresh cucumbers with sweet peppers for a bright and tasty side dish. It’s super easy to whip up and perfect for summer picnics!
Honestly, I can’t get enough of that refreshing crunch! I love tossing in a splash of lemon juice for extra zing. You can’t go wrong with this colorful mix on your plate!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Fresh cucumbers are the star here! You can use either English or regular cucumbers. If you’re out of fresh cucumbers, zucchini can be a good substitute for a similar crunch.
Sweet Bell Peppers: I prefer using a mix of red, yellow, and orange for color and sweetness. If you have green bell peppers, they work too, but they are a bit more bitter. Cherry tomatoes can add a nice pop of color too!
Red Onion: This adds a nice bite to the salad. If you’re sensitive to the taste, you can soak the slices in water for a few minutes to mellow the flavor. Green onions are a great substitute as well.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice gives zesty flavor! If you’re out, lime juice can work too. For a sweeter touch, apple cider vinegar is a tasty alternative.
Honey or Maple Syrup: This is optional, but if you want to skip it, the salad will still taste great with just the lemon juice and oil.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor From My Salad?
To really let the flavors shine, chilling the salad is key! Here are some tips:
- After mixing the salad and dressing, let it rest in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes. This allows the veggies to soak up that delicious dressing.
- For an extra layer of flavor, you can also add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for some heat.
- Mix gently when tossing to keep the vegetables crisp and fresh. Over-mixing can make them soggy.
Enjoy crafting this refreshing salad with your personal touches!
Fresh Cucumber and Sweet Pepper Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 2 sweet bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange), thinly sliced
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus at least 15 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. So, you can have this refreshing dish ready in just around 25 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Veggies:
Start by washing your cucumbers and sweet peppers. Then, using a sharp knife, thinly slice the cucumbers. Do the same for the bell peppers. If you’re using red onion, slice it thinly as well. This way, all the veggies will have a nice crunch!
2. Combine the Salad:
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the sliced cucumbers, sweet peppers, and the optional red onion. Give them a gentle stir to mix things up a bit.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, olive oil, honey (if you like a touch of sweetness), salt, and pepper. This will be the magical dressing that ties everything together!
4. Dress the Salad:
Now, pour the dressing over the mixed vegetables in the large bowl. Gently toss everything together until the veggies are nicely coated with the dressing. You want to be careful not to squish the veggies!
5. Garnish:
Before serving, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley or cilantro on top for a pop of color and a burst of flavor. It’s all about making it look and taste fantastic!
6. Chill and Serve:
For the best flavor, cover the salad and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes. This will enhance the taste as the flavors meld together. When you’re ready to serve, dish it up as a refreshing side or a light appetizer—enjoy every crunchy bite!
Enjoy your crisp and colorful Fresh Cucumber and Sweet Pepper Salad!
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match with other crunchy veggies like carrots, radishes, or even cherry tomatoes. Adding a variety can bring more color and flavor to your salad!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Salad?
Leftover salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the longer it sits, the more the vegetables may release moisture, which can make the salad a bit soggy.
Can I Make This Salad in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the salad and dressing ahead of time. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to prevent the salad from getting wilted. Combine them just before serving for the best texture!
What Can I Add for Extra Flavor?
If you want to amp up the flavor even more, consider adding ingredients like feta cheese, toasted nuts, or seeds. A sprinkle of herbs such as dill or basil can also enhance the taste delightful!
