Cucumber Sweet Pepper Salad Recipe

Introduction

This refreshing cucumber sweet pepper salad is a perfect light side dish packed with vibrant colors and fresh flavors. Easy to prepare, it’s ideal for warm days or whenever you want a crisp, healthy bite.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cucumbers, sliced
• 1 cup sweet bell peppers, chopped (red, yellow, or orange)
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: Wash all vegetables under cool running water to ensure they are clean and fresh.
2. Step 2: Slice cucumbers into thin rounds or half-moons, and chop sweet bell peppers into bite-sized pieces.
3. Step 3: Thinly slice red onion; if you want a milder flavor, soak the slices in cold water for 10 minutes and then drain.
4. Step 4: In a large mixing bowl, combine cucumbers, bell peppers, red onion, and parsley.
5. Step 5: Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Step 6: Toss gently until everything is well coated. Let the salad sit for 10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Tips & Variations

• For extra crunch, add toasted nuts like walnuts or almonds just before serving.
• Try substituting lemon juice with lime juice for a slightly different citrus note.
• If you prefer a bit of sweetness, add a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup to the dressing.
• Use fresh herbs like dill or mint instead of parsley for a unique flavor twist.

Storage

Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but if refrigerated, toss gently before serving again. Avoid storing dressings separately for too long as vegetables may release water, making the salad watery.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this salad in advance?

Yes, you can prepare it a few hours ahead and store it in the fridge. Just keep in mind the vegetables may release some water, making the salad slightly less crisp.

Can I use other types of peppers?

Absolutely. Sweet bell peppers work best, but you can experiment with mini sweet peppers or even mild chili peppers if you prefer a little heat.

Cucumber Sweet Pepper Salad Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 82 reviews

A refreshing and vibrant Cucumber Sweet Pepper Salad featuring crisp cucumbers, colorful sweet bell peppers, and a zesty lemon-olive oil dressing. Perfect as a light side dish or a healthy snack.

• Author: Natalie
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Salad
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Vegetables

• 2 cups cucumbers, sliced
• 1 cup sweet bell peppers, chopped (red, yellow, or orange)
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Dressing

• 2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Wash Vegetables: Rinse all vegetables under cool running water to remove any dirt or impurities.
2. Prepare Cucumbers and Peppers: Slice cucumbers into thin rounds or half-moons and chop sweet bell peppers into bite-sized pieces for easy eating.
3. Prepare Red Onion: Thinly slice the red onion; optionally soak in cold water for 10 minutes to reduce sharpness and mellow the flavor.
4. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add cucumbers, bell peppers, red onion, and chopped parsley, mixing them gently.
5. Add Dressing: Drizzle the olive oil and freshly squeezed lemon juice over the vegetables. Season with salt and pepper according to taste.
6. Toss and Marinate: Toss the salad gently until all ingredients are well coated. Let it sit for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld before serving.

Notes

• Soaking the red onion in cold water helps mellow its sharpness, but this step is optional based on your taste preference.
• This salad is best served fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 1 day.
• Feel free to add fresh herbs like mint or dill for a different flavor profile.
• Adjust lemon juice and olive oil to your liking for a tangier or richer dressing.
• Use organic vegetables if possible for the freshest taste and better nutrition.

Keywords: Cucumber Salad, Sweet Pepper Salad, Healthy Salad, Summer Salad, No Cook Salad, Refreshing Side Dish