Cucumber Sweet Pepper Salad

Looking for a fresh, colorful, and crisp side dish that’s bursting with flavor? This Cucumber Sweet Pepper Salad is just what you need! It combines the cool crunch of cucumbers with the sweetness of mini bell peppers in a light, tangy dressing. Perfect for summer picnics, potlucks, or a quick healthy lunch.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick & Easy – Ready in just 15 minutes with minimal prep.
Fresh & Healthy – Packed with vitamins and antioxidants.
Vibrant & Flavorful – A colorful mix of textures and tastes.
Perfect Make-Ahead Dish – Tastes even better after marinating.
Low-Calorie – Guilt-free, refreshing side dish for any meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Salad:
2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
1½ cups mini sweet bell peppers, sliced into thin rings (use red, yellow, and orange)
¼ small red onion, thinly sliced
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (or dill for a twist)
1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds (optional for extra crunch)

For the Dressing:
3 tbsp rice vinegar (or white wine vinegar)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp honey (or maple syrup for vegan option)
1 tsp Dijon mustard
½ tsp garlic powder
Salt and black pepper to taste

Tools You’ll Need
Cutting board
Sharp knife or mandoline slicer
Large mixing bowl
Small whisk or jar for dressing
Serving platter or salad bowl

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Vegetables
Wash and thinly slice the cucumbers (you can peel them if desired).
Slice mini sweet bell peppers into rings and remove any seeds.
Thinly slice the red onion and chop the parsley.
Add all the veggies to a large mixing bowl.

Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the rice vinegar, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 3: Toss the Salad
Pour the dressing over the sliced vegetables in the bowl.
Toss everything gently to combine and evenly coat with the dressing.
Let the salad sit for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 4: Serve & Garnish
Transfer the salad to a serving dish.
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and toasted sesame seeds if using.
Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Tips for the Best Cucumber Sweet Pepper Salad
Use a Mandoline – For perfectly thin and even slices that absorb the dressing well.
Chill Before Serving – Letting the salad rest enhances the flavor.
Try Fresh Herbs – Dill, mint, or cilantro all pair wonderfully with cucumbers.
Add a Crunch – Toasted nuts or seeds offer a delightful texture boost.

Serving Suggestions
Grilled Chicken or Fish – A great side for light, protein-rich mains.
Wraps or Sandwiches – Adds freshness and crunch to hearty handhelds.
BBQ Dishes – Cuts through smoky flavors with bright acidity.
Hummus & Pita – Serve alongside for a Mediterranean-style spread.

How to Store & Reuse

Storing:
Refrigerate: Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Stir before serving to redistribute dressing.

Reusing:
Wrap Filling: Add to wraps or sandwiches for added crunch.
Top for Bowls: Use on grain bowls or green salads as a refreshing layer.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use regular bell peppers?
   Yes, just slice them thinly—mini sweet peppers are just more tender and colorful.
2. What’s the best cucumber to use?
   English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers work best as they’re seedless and less watery.
3. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
   Absolutely! It holds up well and tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge.
4. Is this salad vegan?
   Yes, simply use maple syrup instead of honey to keep it fully plant-based.

Final Thoughts
This Cucumber Sweet Pepper Salad is the kind of dish you’ll come back to again and again. Light, crunchy, and bursting with fresh flavor, it’s perfect as a healthy side or a refreshing standalone snack. With a tangy-sweet dressing and vibrant colors, it’s sure to brighten up any table.

Try it out and let me know what you think! Don’t forget to leave a review below and share your photos on Pinterest! I can’t wait to see your beautiful and delicious creation.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 90 | Protein: 1g | Carbohydrates: 8g | Fat: 6g | Fiber: 2g | Sodium: 160mg

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