Name: Cucumber Sweet Pepper Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced; 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced; 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced; 1 orange bell pepper, thinly sliced; ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced; ¼ cup fresh dill, chopped; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon honey; Salt and pepper to taste

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This Cucumber Sweet Pepper Salad is the perfect combination of fresh, crisp vegetables and a tangy dressing. With vibrant bell peppers, refreshing cucumbers, and a light honey vinaigrette, it’s a quick and healthy dish that works as both a side or a light main course. The fresh dill adds a delightful touch of flavor, making this salad the ultimate refreshing dish for any meal!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad is not only colorful and visually appealing, but it’s also light, crisp, and packed with flavor. The combination of cucumbers and sweet bell peppers creates the perfect crunchy base, while the tangy dressing balances the natural sweetness of the peppers and adds a zesty kick. With just a few simple ingredients, this salad comes together in under 15 minutes, making it a great option for busy days or casual gatherings. Whether you’re serving it as a refreshing side dish or a light lunch, this salad is sure to impress! Cucumber Sweet Pepper Salad

Ingredients

2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 orange bell pepper, thinly sliced
¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
¼ cup fresh dill, chopped
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon honey
Salt and pepper to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the thinly sliced cucumbers, red, yellow, and orange bell peppers, and red onion.
Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, and honey until well combined.
Combine the Salad: Pour the dressing over the cucumber and pepper mixture. Add the chopped fresh dill and toss everything together until the vegetables are well coated with the dressing.
Season: Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the salad for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish or a light main course.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

Add Protein: For a more filling meal, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to the salad.
Herb Variations: You can use fresh parsley, basil, or mint instead of dill for a different herbal flavor.
Add Feta or Cheese: Crumbled feta, goat cheese, or a sprinkle of parmesan can add richness to the salad.
Spicy Kick: If you like a little heat, add sliced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but the flavors will continue to develop in the fridge. It’s not recommended to freeze the salad, as the cucumbers may become soggy when thawed.

FAQs

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this salad up to 2 hours ahead of time. Just keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to serve. The flavors will actually improve as they marinate.

2. Can I use other types of vinegar?

Yes, you can use white vinegar or rice vinegar in place of apple cider vinegar for a slightly different flavor. Each will add its own unique twist to the dressing.

3. Can I make this salad spicier?

If you prefer a spicier salad, you can add sliced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a drizzle of hot sauce to the dressing.

4. Can I use a different herb instead of dill?

Yes, fresh parsley, basil, or even tarragon would work great as a substitute for dill, depending on your flavor preferences.

5. Can I add fruits to the salad?

For a sweet contrast, you can add fruits like mango, orange segments, or even strawberries to the salad for an extra burst of flavor.

6. How do I prevent the cucumbers from becoming soggy?

To prevent cucumbers from releasing too much water, you can lightly salt them and let them sit for about 10 minutes before assembling the salad. This helps draw out excess moisture.

7. How can I make this salad more filling?

To make it more filling, you can add grains like quinoa or couscous, or add protein like grilled chicken or chickpeas to the salad.

8. Can I make this salad vegan?

Yes, this salad is naturally vegan! It’s packed with fresh vegetables and the dressing is plant-based.

9. Can I use regular onions instead of red onions?

You can substitute red onion with yellow or white onion, but red onions tend to have a milder, sweeter flavor, which works especially well in fresh salads.

10. How can I adjust the sweetness of the dressing?

You can adjust the sweetness by adding more honey or maple syrup, depending on your taste preference. For a tangier dressing, reduce the amount of honey.

Conclusion

This Cucumber Sweet Pepper Salad is the ultimate refreshing dish, perfect for warm weather or anytime you want a light and healthy meal. The crisp vegetables, tangy dressing, and fresh herbs come together in a delightful way that’s sure to satisfy. Whether served as a side dish at a barbecue, a lunch, or a salad for your next gathering, this salad is always a hit!

Emma