There’s something truly special about a simple, fresh salad that feels like a burst of flavor with every bite. This Cucumber and Bell Pepper Salad is just that—crisp, refreshing, and packed with color and crunch. Perfect for those sunny days when you crave something light but satisfying, it’s also versatile enough to serve at any occasion, from casual dinners to fancy gatherings. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll find yourself making it over and over again.
This salad is an easy way to get your veggie fix while adding a fun, crunchy element to your meal. And the best part? It’s not just about eating healthy—it’s about enjoying every bite. So, if you love a good mix of textures and flavors, you’re going to adore this recipe.
Why You’ll Love Cucumber and Bell Pepper Salad
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion.
Is this Cucumber and Bell Pepper Salad for you? Let’s see. Cucumber and Bell Pepper Salad is…
- Light and refreshing—perfect for a warm day.
- Super crunchy, thanks to the fresh cucumbers and bell peppers.
- Versatile—add your favorite dressing or even a sprinkle of cheese for extra flavor.
- Packed with healthy veggies, so it’s a guilt-free indulgence.
- Quick to prepare—throw it together in minutes.
Ingredients
Here’s what makes this salad so fresh and delicious:
- Cucumbers: Crisp and cool, they add the perfect crunch.
- Bell Peppers: Sweet and colorful, these add a vibrant pop and extra crunch.
- Red Onion: Adds a bit of sharpness to balance the sweetness of the peppers.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Bursting with juicy flavor to tie everything together.
- Fresh Herbs: Parsley or cilantro—adds freshness that makes all the difference.
(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Prepare the Veggies: Slice your cucumbers and bell peppers into bite-sized pieces. Slice the red onion thinly, and halve the cherry tomatoes. This ensures every bite is a perfect mix of crunchy, juicy, and flavorful.
Toss Together: In a large bowl, toss the cucumbers, bell peppers, red onion, and cherry tomatoes together. You want everything mixed evenly so every bite has a little bit of everything!
Add Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle in some fresh parsley or cilantro to give the salad that extra burst of flavor. These herbs are like little bursts of freshness that really bring everything together.
Dress and Serve: You can dress this salad with your favorite vinaigrette or just a squeeze of lemon for something light and refreshing. Toss gently to coat the veggies in the dressing.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve this salad fresh for the best crunch and flavor. It’s the perfect side to any meal or a light lunch on its own.
How to serve Cucumber and Bell Pepper Salad?
- Fresh Salads: Pair it with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
- Grilled Meats: Serve alongside grilled chicken or steak for a delightful crunch.
- Sandwiches or Wraps: This salad makes a great side dish to complement your favorite sandwiches or wraps.
- As a Standalone: Sometimes, this salad is hearty enough to enjoy all on its own. Just top with your favorite dressing and dig in.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 40mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Additional Tips
Here are a few tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
- Prep Ahead: Save time by chopping and measuring the ingredients the night before. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge to keep them fresh.
- Spice It Up: Experiment with spices like cumin, chili powder, or paprika to add a twist to the flavor.
- Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently or enjoy chilled!
- Add Protein: For a more filling meal, toss in some grilled chicken or chickpeas for an extra protein boost.
Tips & Variations/Quick Tips:
- Ingredient Swaps: Swap out the bell peppers for other crunchy veggies like carrots or celery for a different flavor profile.
- Dressing Variations: Add a bit of honey or Dijon mustard to your vinaigrette for extra depth.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I substitute cucumbers with another veggie?
A1: Yes! Try using zucchini or even celery if you want a different crunchy texture.
Q2: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A2: Absolutely! Prepare the salad and keep it in the fridge. Dress it just before serving to keep the veggies crisp.
Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Q4: Can I freeze this dish?
A4: This salad is best enjoyed fresh and not recommended for freezing.
Q5: Can I double the recipe?
A5: Definitely! Just adjust the ingredients and make a bigger batch for gatherings or meal prep.
That’s it! A simple, refreshing, and colorful salad that brings all the freshness of the season right to your plate. Enjoy!
Cucumber and Bell Pepper Salad
Ingredients
- Salad:
- 4 mini cucumbers sliced
- 10 mini sweet peppers sliced
- ½ Tablespoon Everything But the Bagel Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon chili crisp
- Sesame Ginger Dressing:
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- ¼ cup unseasoned rice vinegar
- 1 ½ Tablespoons tamari or soy sauce
- 1 ½ Tablespoons maple syrup
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil
- 1 large clove garlic
- 1 ” knob fresh ginger
- Pinch black pepper
Instructions
- In a blender, combine olive oil, rice vinegar, tamari (or soy sauce), maple syrup, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and black pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- In a large bowl, add sliced cucumbers and sweet peppers.
- Pour ¼ cup of the prepared dressing over the vegetables. Add Everything But the Bagel Seasoning and chili crisp.
- Toss well to coat. Taste and adjust seasoning or dressing to preference.
- Serve immediately or chill before serving for extra crispness
