Refreshing Cucumber Sweet Pepper Salad Recipe for Summer
The Secret to a Refreshing Cucumber Sweet Pepper Salad
If you’re on the lookout for a dish that screams summer and brings vibrant flavors to your table, look no further than this Cucumber Sweet Pepper Salad. Bursting with the crispness of cucumbers and the sweetness of bell peppers, this salad is a delightful combination that will tantalize your taste buds. Tossed in a zesty lemon-olive oil dressing, every bite offers a refreshing crunch that’s perfect for any gathering or as a light snack throughout the day.
Why You’ll Love This Cucumber Sweet Pepper Salad
– Quick and easy to prepare in just 15 minutes.
– A colorful and visually appealing dish that brightens any table.
– Crisp texture from fresh vegetables makes it incredibly satisfying.
– Versatile enough to be served as a side or enjoyed on its own.
– Healthy and low in calories, making it a guilt-free choice.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
To whip up this delicious salad, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools to make your prep effortless.
– Cutting board: Essential for slicing your fresh ingredients safely.
– Sharp knife: A must-have for cleanly chopping cucumbers and peppers.
– Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining all your ingredients together without spilling.
– Measuring spoons: Helps ensure accurate quantities for dressing and seasoning.
Preparation Tips
For the best results, consider using freshly picked cucumbers and vibrant bell peppers for maximum flavor. If you prefer a milder onion taste, soaking sliced red onion in cold water for 10 minutes can help mellow its sharpness. Feel free to customize the salad by adding crumbled feta cheese or experimenting with fresh herbs like dill or basil to elevate the dish further.
Ingredients for this Cucumber Sweet Pepper Salad
– 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
Cucumber Sweet Pepper Salad
Summer is the perfect time for light and refreshing dishes, and nothing says summer quite like a vibrant Cucumber Sweet Pepper Salad. This delightful salad bursts with color and flavor, making it the ideal companion for your outdoor gatherings or cozy picnics. With an easy-to-make zesty dressing, this dish will undoubtedly become a staple in your recipe repertoire.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Wash Your Vegetables
Start by giving all your vegetables a good wash under cool running water. This step is essential to remove any dirt or residue. You’ll want to make sure your cucumbers and sweet peppers are clean, as fresh ingredients make all the difference in taste.
Step 2: Prepare the Cucumbers
Slice your cucumbers into thin rounds or half-moons according to your preference. This adds a nice crunch to the salad. If you’re feeling adventurous, try using a mix of cucumbers and zucchini for an extra layer of texture!
Step 3: Chop the Sweet Bell Peppers
Next up, chop your sweet bell peppers into bite-sized pieces. Choose from red, yellow, or orange varieties for a colorful medley that not only tastes great but also looks beautiful on your serving plate.
Step 4: Slice the Red Onion
Thinly slice the red onion to add a bit of zing to your salad. If you find raw onions too overpowering, consider soaking them in cold water for about 10 minutes before adding them to the bowl. This will mellow their sharpness while keeping that lovely crunch.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients in a Bowl
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, chopped bell peppers, sliced red onion, and freshly chopped parsley. The parsley not only adds freshness but also enhances the overall flavor profile of your salad.
Step 6: Make the Dressing
Drizzle your salad with extra virgin olive oil and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste. The balance of acidity from the lemon and richness from the olive oil is what brings this dish together beautifully.
Step 7: Toss and Let Sit
Gently toss all the ingredients until they are well coated with the dressing. Allow the salad to sit for about 10 minutes before serving; this helps all those wonderful flavors meld together nicely.
Notes
This salad is incredibly versatile! Feel free to substitute cucumbers with zucchini for an interesting twist or add crumbled feta cheese if you’re looking for a little extra creaminess (just ensure it’s a non-animal derived option). Fresh herbs like dill or basil can elevate the flavor even further; don’t hesitate to experiment with what you have on hand!
Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking
– Not washing vegetables thoroughly before use
– Cutting vegetables too thickly, which can affect texture
– Overdressing; start with less dressing and add more as needed
– Forgetting to let the salad sit before serving
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To keep it fresh and crunchy, avoid adding too much dressing until you’re ready to serve again! Freezing is not recommended due to the high water content of cucumbers which can result in mushiness once thawed.
Estimated Nutrition
– Calories: 90
– Protein: 1g
– Fat: 6g
– Carbs: 9g
– Fiber: 2g
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can I store leftovers?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Be sure not to dress them until you’re ready to enjoy!
Can I add protein to this salad?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken breast or chickpeas would be excellent additions if you want some extra protein without compromising on flavor.
What other vegetables work well in this recipe?
Feel free to get creative! You can add shredded carrots, cherry tomatoes, or even radishes for an added crunch.
Conclusion
I hope you give this Cucumber Sweet Pepper Salad a try! It’s such a delightful addition to any meal and so simple to whip up. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you—please share your thoughts and any personal twists you might add! Happy cooking!
Cucumber Sweet Pepper Salad
Ingredients
Method
- Wash all your vegetables under cool running water to remove any dirt or residue.
- Slice your cucumbers into thin rounds or half-moons.
- Chop your sweet bell peppers into bite-sized pieces.
- Thinly slice the red onion.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, chopped bell peppers, sliced red onion, and freshly chopped parsley.
- Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Gently toss all the ingredients until well coated with the dressing and let sit for about 10 minutes before serving.
