Take a bite of summer with this vibrant, crisp Cucumber and Sweet Pepper Salad. Packed with fresh, zesty flavors and just the right amount of crunch, this salad is a perfect companion for light lunches, barbecues, or as a refreshing side dish. The combination of sweet mini peppers, crisp cucumbers, and a luscious sesame ginger dressing makes this salad an irresistible treat for your taste buds.
Elevate the experience with a drizzle of chili oil for a gentle kick of heat, and top it off with the nutty crunch of “everything but the bagel” seasoning. Whether you’re a salad lover or looking for a new dish to wow your family and friends, this recipe proves that simplicity and bold flavors can coexist beautifully.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
1. Fresh and Crunchy: The crisp cucumbers and sweet peppers provide a refreshing and satisfying texture.
2. Bold Flavors: The sesame ginger dressing adds depth with its sweet and tangy profile, while the chili oil gives it a customizable heat level.
3. Quick and Easy: Ready in just 10 minutes, this salad requires minimal prep and delivers maximum flavor.
Ingredients needed
For the Sesame Ginger Dressing:
• Extra virgin olive oil: Adds a silky base.
• Rice vinegar: Brings a tangy kick.
• Sesame oil: Infuses a toasty flavor.
• Soy sauce: Adds savory depth.
• Grated ginger: Elevates with a spicy warmth.
• Honey: Balances the tang with a touch of sweetness.
For the Salad:
• Mini sweet bell peppers: Vibrant and naturally sweet.
• Persian cucumbers: Crisp and refreshing.
• Chili oil: Adjust to your spice preference.
• Everything but the bagel seasoning: Adds a salty, nutty crunch.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, rice vinegar, sesame oil, soy sauce, grated ginger, and honey until well combined.
2. Slice the Vegetables: Cut the mini peppers into rings and slice the Persian cucumbers thinly for uniform bites.
3. Toss It All Together: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced vegetables, sesame ginger dressing, chili oil (to taste), and a sprinkle of “everything but the bagel” seasoning.
4. Serve or Chill: Serve immediately for the freshest taste, or refrigerate for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld beautifully.
Variations
• Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to turn this salad into a light, satisfying meal.
• Nuts & Seeds: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds or sliced almonds for added crunch.
• Herbaceous Twist: Mix in chopped cilantro, mint, or parsley for a fresh herbal flavor.
• Low Carb: Omit the honey and use a sugar-free substitute for a keto-friendly version.
Storage
• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Not recommended as cucumbers and peppers lose their crunch when frozen.
• Pro Tip: Add the dressing right before serving to maintain maximum crispness.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of cucumber?
Yes! English cucumbers or even regular cucumbers work well. Just remove the seeds if they’re large.
2. How spicy is this salad?
It depends on how much chili oil you add! Start with a little and adjust to your taste.
3. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prep the veggies and dressing separately, then combine just before serving for the freshest texture.
The Goods
Cucumber and Sweet Pepper Salad
We appreciate you taking the time to rate!
Recipes
Sesame Ginger Dressing:
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- ½ tablespoon rice vinegar
- ½ tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- ½ tablespoon freshly grated ginger
- 1½ tablespoons honey
Salad:
- 7-8 mini sweet bell peppers assorted colors, sliced into rings
- 4 Persian cucumbers thinly sliced
- ¼ cup sesame ginger dressing
- 1-2 tablespoons chili oil adjust to taste for heat
- 2-3 teaspoons Everything but the Bagel seasoning
Instructions
Prepare the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, rice vinegar, sesame oil, soy sauce, grated ginger, and honey until well combined.
Assemble the Salad:
- In a large mixing or serving bowl, add the sliced bell peppers and cucumbers. Drizzle with the sesame ginger dressing and toss gently to coat.
Add Seasoning:
- Stir in chili oil and sprinkle with Everything but the Bagel seasoning. Adjust to taste.
Serve:
- Serve immediately for a crisp texture or chill in the fridge until ready to enjoy.
Leave a Reply