This crunchy salad brings together fresh cucumbers and sweet bell peppers for a light and refreshing treat! Toss in some zingy lemon juice for a burst of flavor.
It’s perfect as a side dish or a quick snack. I can’t resist filling my bowl with this colorful mix, especially on hot days. So tasty and easy to make!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Use large, firm cucumbers for crunchiness. If English cucumbers are available, they have fewer seeds and are seedless, making them a great choice. For a twist, try pickling cucumbers for extra zing!
Bell Peppers: Sweet bell peppers add color and flavor. Red, yellow, or orange are best for sweetness. You can substitute with any color or even try other mild peppers like poblano for a different flavor.
Red Onion: This ingredient gives a nice bite. If you find it too strong, substitute it with green onions or chives for a milder taste. You can also leave it out altogether!
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil enhances flavor. If you prefer, avocado oil or any mild oil can be used as substitutes. Just keep it light to let the veggies shine.
Sweeteners: Honey adds a nice hint of sweetness, but if you’re vegan, maple syrup is a good substitute. You can also skip the sweetener if you prefer a tangier salad.
How Do I Make the Salad Extra Refreshing?
Chilling this salad is key for the best flavor. Here are some tips to ensure every bite is refreshing:
- Ensure all veggies are washed and dried. The moisture can dilute the dressing.
- Slicing vegetables thinly allows for better flavor absorption. Use a sharp knife or a mandoline for even cuts.
- For extra zing, chill your serving bowl in the freezer for 10 minutes before tossing the salad.
- Letting the salad marinate in the fridge enhances the flavors. Aim for at least 20 minutes, but overnight is even better!
- Serve with ice-cold plates to keep the salad crisp.
Refreshing Cucumber and Sweet Pepper Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 large 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 extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon honey or sugar (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad takes about 10 minutes of preparation time, plus at least 20 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. In just half an hour, you’ll have a refreshing dish ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
Start by washing the cucumbers and bell peppers under cool water to remove any dirt. Then, thinly slice the cucumbers and sweet bell peppers into bite-sized pieces. If you’re using red onion, slice it thinly as well.
2. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the sliced cucumbers, bell peppers, and red onion. Give them a gentle stir to mix them together.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, olive oil, honey (if you want that touch of sweetness), salt, and black pepper until it’s well combined. This dressing will brighten up the salad!
4. Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the vegetable mixture in the bowl. Toss everything gently so that all the veggies are coated evenly with the delicious dressing.
5. Garnish and Chill:
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or cilantro on top for added freshness and flavor. Then, cover the salad with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 20 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
After the chilling time, give the salad another gentle toss. Serve it cold as a refreshing side dish or a light snack. Enjoy your delicious, refreshing cucumber and sweet pepper salad!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other vegetables like cherry tomatoes, radishes, or even grated carrots for added texture and flavor. Just keep the focus on fresh, crunchy veggies!
How Long Will the Salad Last in the Fridge?
This salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just note that the cucumbers may become slightly softer over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh!
Can I Prepare This Salad in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours ahead of time. However, add the dressing just before serving to keep the cucumbers crisp and fresh. If already dressed, it’s best to eat within a day for the best texture.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Lemon Juice?
No worries! If fresh lemon juice isn’t available, bottled lemon juice can be used as a substitute. Alternatively, a splash of vinegar (like apple cider or white wine vinegar) can also add a nice tangy flavor!
