This refreshing cucumber and sweet pepper salad is a bright mix of crunchy veggies and zesty flavors. It’s light, tasty, and perfect for hot days!
Whenever I make this salad, I can’t help but smile. It’s so easy to throw together, and it’s a great way to add a burst of color to my meals. Give it a try—you’ll love it!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Fresh cucumbers are the star! I like using English cucumbers for their crisp texture and fewer seeds. If they’re not available, regular cucumbers will work just fine. Just peel them if the skin is too thick.
Sweet Bell Peppers: A mix of colors like red, yellow, and orange not only makes the salad vibrant but also sweeter. If you’re in a pinch, you can use any color of bell pepper or even substitute with thinly sliced carrots for a different crunch.
Red Onion: The addition of red onion gives a lovely sharpness. If you’re not a fan of raw onion, try using green onions or even skip this ingredient altogether. You could also use pickled onions for a zesty twist!
Vinegar: Rice vinegar is light and works perfectly here. If it’s hard to find, apple cider vinegar is a great alternative. Both will give that tangy punch to brighten the salad.
Sesame Oil: This adds a nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste. If you’re out of sesame oil, feel free to use olive oil or another neutral oil, but try to keep the sesame seeds for that signature crunch!
How Do I Make Sure the Salad Flavors Are Balanced?
Getting the right balance of flavors in your salad dressing is key. Start by whisking the vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and optional honey together. Taste it before pouring over the salad. You want a nice balance of tangy and sweet.
- If it’s too tart, add more honey or agave. If too sweet, a splash of vinegar can help.
- Season with salt and pepper gradually, tasting after each addition.
- Allow the salad to rest before serving so the flavors can meld together—10-15 minutes is perfect!
How to Make Cucumber and Sweet Pepper Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Salad:
- 2 cups cucumbers, sliced
- 1 cup sweet bell peppers (mixed colors: red, yellow, orange), sliced
- ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds (white and black for contrast)
For The Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for a gluten-free option)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon honey or agave syrup (optional for sweetness)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This fresh and zesty salad takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend a little time chopping vegetables and mixing up a simple dressing. Let it rest for a few minutes to meld the flavors, and then you’re ready to enjoy it as a side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
Start by slicing your cucumbers and sweet bell peppers. If you’re using red onion, slice that thinly as well. In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, sweet bell peppers, and red onion (if using). Mix them gently with your hands or a spoon to combine.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and honey (if you like a touch of sweetness). Add a pinch of salt and a dash of pepper to fit your taste. Mix it well until everything is combined and a bit smooth.
3. Combine the Salad and Dressing:
Pour the dressing over the bowl of vegetables. Toss everything gently to coat all the veggies in the dressing nicely. Make sure each piece gets a bit of that tasty mixture!
4. Add Sesame Seeds:
Sprinkle the sesame seeds over your salad and toss again lightly so they’re evenly distributed. The sesame seeds add a lovely crunch and visual appeal.
5. Let It Rest:
Let your salad sit for about 10-15 minutes. This short time allows the flavors to mix and become even more delicious. You can set it in the fridge if you like it extra cold!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Your vibrant Cucumber and Sweet Pepper Salad is ready! Serve it chilled or at room temperature as a delightful side dish. Enjoy the freshness!
Can I Substitute Other Vegetables in This Salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to add or replace vegetables based on what you have on hand. Shredded carrots, snap peas, or cherry tomatoes can work well. Just ensure any substitutions are fresh and crunchy for the best texture!
How Long Does This Salad Last in the Fridge?
This salad can last up to 2 days in the fridge. Be sure to store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. Just keep in mind that the cucumbers may release some water, so it might be best to add the dressing right before serving if you want extra crunch.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
You can prep the veggies and the dressing separately ahead of time! Just store them in the fridge. Combine them together about 30 minutes before serving to keep everything crisp and fresh. Adding the sesame seeds just before serving will also help maintain their crunch!
What Can I Use Instead of Honey or Agave Syrup?
If you’re looking for a substitute for honey or agave, consider using maple syrup or a little bit of sugar. If you want to keep it sugar-free, you can simply omit it or use a sugar replacement that’s suitable for your dietary needs.
