SALADS

Cucumber Sweet Pepper Salad: 10-Minute Tasty Treat

by Fatima Garcia

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29 de July de 2025

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Cucumber Sweet Pepper Salad has become my go-to for a burst of freshness on a busy day. I remember the first time I tried a similar dish at a farmer’s market – the vibrant colors and the crisp, refreshing crunch were incredible! This easy cucumber sweet pepper salad is even better because it’s so simple to whip up. It’s the perfect quick cucumber bell pepper salad when you need something healthy and delicious without any fuss. Get ready to taste summer! Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Cucumber Sweet Pepper Salad

This vibrant salad is a winner for so many reasons:

Incredible Taste: It offers a delightful sweet and tangy flavor profile with a satisfying crunch.
Super Quick Prep: You can have this ready in just about 10 minutes – perfect for busy weeknights!
Health Benefits: Packed with vitamins and antioxidants, this is a truly healthy cucumber pepper salad.
Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, accessible ingredients that won’t break the bank.
Family-Approved: Even picky eaters will enjoy the bright flavors and crisp textures.
Versatile Side: It’s a fantastic accompaniment to grilled meats, fish, or served as a light lunch.
Refreshing & Light: This fresh cucumber sweet pepper salad is incredibly hydrating and satisfying.
No Cooking Required: Absolutely zero time spent over a hot stove!

Ingredients for Cucumber Sweet Pepper Salad

Here’s what you’ll need for this delightful salad. We’re using mini sweet bell peppers, which offer a wonderful sweetness without much heat, and Persian cucumbers, known for their thin skin, fewer seeds, and fantastic crunch – perfect for a fresh cucumber sweet pepper salad. The simple yet flavorful cucumber sweet pepper salad dressing ties it all together.

60 ml extra virgin olive oil – the base of our dressing
7 ml rice vinegar – adds a bright tang
7 ml sesame oil – for that nutty aroma and flavor
15 ml soya sauce – provides a savory depth
7 ml grated fresh ginger – gives a zesty kick
22 ml honey – to balance the tanginess with sweetness
7-8 mini sweet bell peppers (mixed colors), sliced into rings – for vibrant color and crisp sweetness
4 Persian cucumbers, sliced – their crisp texture is key
15-30 ml chili oil – adjust to your spice preference
10-15 ml everything but the bagel seasoning – for a garlicky, seedy finish

How to Make Cucumber Sweet Pepper Salad

Crafting this vibrant salad is a breeze, and you’ll be amazed at how simple it is to put together. Let’s dive into how to make cucumber sweet pepper salad:

Step 1: Start by preparing the delicious dressing. In a small bowl, combine 60 ml extra virgin olive oil, 7 ml rice vinegar, 7 ml sesame oil, 15 ml soya sauce, 7 ml grated fresh ginger, and 22 ml honey. Whisk these ingredients together until they are well combined and emulsified – you’ll notice the mixture becoming slightly thicker and more uniform.
Step 2: Next, prepare your fresh produce. Slice 7-8 mini sweet bell peppers (using a mix of colors like red, yellow, and orange) into thin rings. Then, take 4 Persian cucumbers and slice them into bite-sized pieces. You can slice them into rounds or half-moons, whatever you prefer for your salad.
Step 3: Add the prepared bell peppers and cucumbers to a large mixing or serving bowl. Pour the dressing you made in Step 1 over the vegetables. This is where the magic happens to create a simple cucumber sweet pepper salad.
Step 4: Now, add your flavor boosters. Drizzle in 15-30 ml chili oil, adjusting the amount based on how spicy you like your food. Sprinkle generously with 10-15 ml everything but the bagel seasoning for that extra pop of flavor and texture.
Step 5: Gently toss everything together. Use a large spoon or salad tongs to combine the vegetables, dressing, chili oil, and seasoning. Be gentle so you don’t bruise the cucumbers or peppers. You want everything coated evenly.
Step 6: Taste and adjust. Before serving, give it a quick taste. Need more spice? Add a touch more chili oil. Want more sesame flavor? A tiny bit more sesame oil. Is it not quite savory enough? A splash more soy sauce. This step ensures your cucumber sweet pepper salad is perfect for your palate.
Step 7: Serve immediately for the freshest crunch, or cover and chill in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours if you’re prepping ahead. This salad is perfect served cold, making it a fantastic summer dish.

Pro Tips for the Best Cucumber Sweet Pepper Salad

I’ve made this salad countless times, and these little tricks really elevate it:

Use Persian Cucumbers: Their thin skins and fewer seeds mean less waste and a consistently crisp texture. They’re truly the best for this salad.
Don’t Over-Toss: Gentle tossing ensures the vegetables stay crisp and don’t get bruised or watery.
Taste and Adjust: My favorite part is customizing the dressing – a little more chili oil or a touch more honey makes all the difference.
Prep Ahead Wisely: The dressing can absolutely be made a day or two in advance. Store it in a sealed jar in the fridge.

What’s the secret to perfect Cucumber Sweet Pepper Salad?

The secret to the absolute best cucumber sweet pepper salad is using high-quality, fresh ingredients, especially Persian cucumbers for their superior crunch and flavor. Also, making sure your dressing ingredients are balanced is key! For more tips on creating delicious dressings, check out this guide on how to make salad dressings.

Can I make Cucumber Sweet Pepper Salad ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dressing up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. For the best texture, I recommend slicing the cucumbers and peppers just before you plan to serve or within a few hours of assembly.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Cucumber Sweet Pepper Salad?

To avoid soggy cucumbers, don’t use large English cucumbers, which can be watery. Also, ensure your dressing is well-emulsified by whisking thoroughly. Lastly, taste and adjust seasonings before serving for that perfect flavor balance. Learn more about the health benefits of eating raw vegetables.

Best Ways to Serve Cucumber Sweet Pepper Salad

This vibrant salad is incredibly versatile, making it a fantastic addition to almost any meal. As a light lunch, it’s wonderfully refreshing on its own, especially during warmer months. It truly shines as a side dish, complementing a variety of main courses beautifully. Imagine serving this summer cucumber pepper salad alongside grilled chicken or fish – the crispness cuts through richer flavors perfectly. It’s also a great partner for pork tenderloin or even a hearty grain bowl. The bright, zesty flavors make it a welcome contrast to savory dishes. For more ideas on pairing salads with meals, explore seasonal salad pairings.

Nutrition Facts for Cucumber Sweet Pepper Salad

This salad is not only delicious but also incredibly good for you! Packed with fresh vegetables, it’s a fantastic way to boost your nutrient intake. Enjoying this healthy cucumber pepper salad means getting a good dose of vitamins and antioxidants without a lot of calories.

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 227
Fat: 18 g
Carbohydrates: 15 g
Protein: 2 g

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Cucumber Sweet Pepper Salad: 10-Minute Tasty Treat - Cucumber Sweet Pepper Salad - additional detail

How to Store and Reheat Cucumber Sweet Pepper Salad

Since this is a no-cook dish, the best way to enjoy its vibrant crunch is fresh. However, if you have leftovers, proper cucumber and sweet pepper salad storage is key. Let the salad cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. I’ve found that while the flavors meld nicely, the cucumbers and peppers can lose some of their crispness overnight. Because it’s a fresh salad, reheating isn’t applicable. If you want to refresh it, you can add a few more sliced cucumbers and peppers before serving again to bring back that delightful crunch.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cucumber Sweet Pepper Salad

What is cucumber sweet pepper salad?

A cucumber sweet pepper salad is a refreshing mix of crisp cucumbers and colorful bell peppers, typically tossed in a light, zesty dressing. It’s a no-cook dish that celebrates fresh flavors and textures, making it perfect for a healthy lunch or side dish.

Why is cucumber sweet pepper salad good?

This salad is fantastic because it’s incredibly hydrating and packed with vitamins, offering numerous health benefits. It’s also wonderfully versatile and easy to customize, making it a go-to for a simple, healthy meal. The combination of crunchy vegetables and a flavorful dressing is just delightful.

Can I use different types of cucumbers or peppers?

Absolutely! While Persian cucumbers offer a superior crunch and sweetness, you can certainly use English cucumbers or even regular slicing cucumbers. For peppers, any color of bell pepper works beautifully. For a different twist, consider a cucumber bell pepper salad with vinaigrette that includes a touch of Dijon mustard for extra zing.

What are some other serving suggestions for this salad?

Beyond being a light lunch, this salad is a stellar sidekick for grilled proteins like chicken or fish. It’s also fantastic alongside barbecue dishes or as part of a larger mezze platter. Its bright flavors make it a great addition to any summer meal. For more inspiration on summer meals, see these summer solstice ideas.

Variations of Cucumber Sweet Pepper Salad You Can Try

Once you master the basic recipe, there are so many fun ways to switch up this salad! Adding a few extra ingredients can totally transform the flavor and texture. For a Mediterranean twist, try adding crumbled feta cheese to your cucumber sweet pepper salad; the salty cheese pairs wonderfully with the crisp veggies.

If you love a little heat, I highly recommend making a spicy cucumber sweet pepper salad by increasing the chili oil or adding a pinch of red pepper flakes. For an even more satisfying crunch, consider adding toasted sunflower seeds or chopped almonds. This keeps the salad exciting and ensures a fantastic texture every time you make your new favorite crunchy cucumber pepper salad!

About the Author

Fatima Garcia