When the summer heat starts to rise, I crave something light, fresh, and oh-so-quick to whip up. That’s when this Cucumber and Bell Pepper Salad comes to the rescue—a recipe that not only takes just 10 minutes but is also a vibrant explosion of colors and flavors! The first time I tossed it together, I couldn't believe how mesmerizing the crisp cucumbers and sweet peppers truly were, especially when coated with that irresistible sesame-ginger dressing.
Picture this: a sunny afternoon, the grill sizzling nearby, and this salad as the perfect sidekick. The savory notes of everything bagel seasoning combined with a subtle kick from chili crisp make each bite a delightful surprise. Whether you're looking for a gluten-free dish to share at a summer picnic or a simple weeknight side, this salad fits the bill beautifully. Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize with whatever veggies or proteins you have on hand!
Join me in creating a dish that not only refreshes your palate but also makes you feel good about eating bright, wholesome ingredients. Let’s dive into this viral recipe that will surely become a staple in your summer kitchen.
Why is Cucumber and Bell Pepper Salad a Must-Try?
Simplicity: This salad comes together in just 10 minutes!
Vibrant Colors: The combination of bright cucumbers and sweet bell peppers creates a stunning visual display.
Irresistible Dressing: The homemade sesame-ginger dressing elevates the flavors to a whole new level, ensuring every bite is deliciously satisfying.
Versatile Side: Perfect for picnics or simple dinners, this dish is great alongside grilled favorites or even as a light main when paired with protein.
Health-Conscious: It's gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan, and packed with fresh ingredients, making it ideal for anyone looking to eat clean!
If you love fresh salads like this one, don’t miss out on my Chinese Beef and Broccoli recipe, perfect for your next meal!
Cucumber and Bell Pepper Salad Ingredients
• Enjoy this fresh and colorful dish with these simple ingredients!
For the Salad
• Mini Cucumbers – The main ingredient that gives this salad its refreshing crunch.
• Mini Sweet Peppers – Adds sweetness and a pop of color for visual appeal.
For the Dressing
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Forms the rich base of the dressing for a smooth texture.
• Unseasoned Rice Vinegar – Provides acidity and brightness to balance the flavors.
• Tamari or Soy Sauce – Adds umami and saltiness to enhance taste.
• Maple Syrup – A drizzle brings a touch of sweetness that complements the other ingredients.
• Sesame Oil – Infuses a nutty aroma and flavor into the dressing.
• Garlic (clove) – Offers a pungent, savory note that boosts flavor.
• Fresh Ginger – Adds a warm, zesty kick, crucial for that sensational sesame-ginger profile.
• Black Pepper (pinch) – A dash adds a fresh spice note to round out the flavors.
For the Extras
• Everything But the Bagel Seasoning – Sprinkles of this blend elevate the savory profile.
• Chili Crisp – A dollop provides a delightful touch of heat and umami to the dish.
This Cucumber and Bell Pepper Salad is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can combine to create something truly special!
How to Make Cucumber and Bell Pepper Salad
- Prepare the Dressing: In a blender, combine extra virgin olive oil, rice vinegar, tamari or soy sauce, maple syrup, sesame oil, minced garlic, fresh ginger, and a pinch of black pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy for that delightful sesame-ginger dressing.
- Slice the Veggies: Take your mini cucumbers and mini sweet peppers and slice them into bite-sized pieces. This helps ensure each bite is filled with refreshing crunch and vibrant color!
- Combine: In a large mixing bowl, add the sliced cucumbers and peppers. Toss them together gently, allowing the veggies to become familiar with one another.
- Add the Dressing: Pour your freshly made dressing over the salad mixture. Then, sprinkle in the everything bagel seasoning and chili crisp. Gently toss again until all the ingredients are well-coated.
- Adjust & Serve: Take a moment to taste your salad! If desired, add more seasoning, chili crisp, or dressing to achieve your perfect flavor balance. Serve immediately for the freshest experience.
Optional: Garnish with chopped green onions for an extra pop of flavor and color!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Cucumber and Bell Pepper Salad
- Fresh Ingredients: Choose the freshest mini cucumbers and bell peppers for a crunch that enhances the salad’s appeal. Old vegetables can turn mushy.
- Customize Your Dressing: Feel free to tweak the sesame-ginger dressing according to your taste! Add more ginger for spice or tamari for saltiness.
- Serving Temperature: Serve the Cucumber and Bell Pepper Salad chilled or at room temperature for the best flavor experience.
- Proper Storage: If you have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 1-2 days to maintain freshness.
- Add Extra Crunch: Consider adding radishes or jicama for additional texture and flavor variations that will take the salad to the next level!
Cucumber and Bell Pepper Salad Variations
Want to put your own spin on this delightful salad? Get creative and make it your own!
- Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for an aromatic lift and extra freshness.
- Nutty Twist: Toss in roasted peanuts or sesame seeds for a crunchy, nutty texture that complements the salad’s flavors beautifully.
- Creamy Addition: Mix in some creamy avocado chunks to give the salad a luxurious, buttery texture that’s simply irresistible.
- Fruit Fusion: Add diced mango or pineapple for a burst of sweetness and tropical flair that dances on your palate.
- Zesty Kick: Throw in some diced jalapeños for a fiery kick that balances the salad’s cool, refreshing elements perfectly.
- Protein Boost: Include grilled shrimp, chickpeas, or diced grilled chicken to transform it into a hearty main dish that’s still light and refreshing.
- Grated Veggies: Spiralize zucchini or carrots to add extra color and an exciting twist to the salad’s texture and flavor profile.
- Citrus Splash: Squeeze fresh lime or lemon juice over the top just before serving for an invigorating zesty finish that brightens every bite.
Feel free to mix and match these ideas to create a version that excites your tastebuds!
What to Serve with Cucumber and Bell Pepper Salad?
Embrace the summer vibe with a delightful meal that brightens your table and tantalizes your taste buds.
- Grilled Chicken Skewers: Tender, juicy skewers add protein and balance the refreshing salad. The smoky grill flavor enhances the salad’s brightness beautifully.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad, loaded with herbs and lemon, complements the crunch of cucumbers and peppers while adding a nutty texture.
- Soba Noodles: Chilled soba noodles tossed in sesame oil create a wholesome pairing, soaking up the salad's vibrant flavors for a satisfying dish.
- Toasted Pita Chips: Crispy pita chips add a delightful crunch, creating the perfect contrast to the salad’s creamy dressing. Dip them right in for added fun!
- Grilled Shrimp: These luscious bites introduce a savory note that mingles wonderfully with the crisp vegetables, making every bite a heavenly experience.
- Watermelon Feta Salad: A refreshing watermelon salad introduces sweetness and saltiness that enhances the overall flavor profile, perfect for summertime dining.
- Chilled White Wine: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc pairs impeccably, bringing out the sesame and ginger notes in the salad dressing while keeping it light and refreshing.
These pairings will not only highlight your Cucumber and Bell Pepper Salad but also create a lovely, balanced meal that's bursting with flavor!
How to Store and Freeze Cucumber and Bell Pepper Salad
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days to maintain the salad’s crunch and flavor.
Room Temperature: It’s best to avoid leaving the Cucumber and Bell Pepper Salad at room temperature for more than 1 hour, especially in warm summer weather.
Freezer: Freezing is not recommended due to the high water content of cucumbers and bell peppers, which can lead to a mushy texture upon thawing.
Reheating: This salad is best enjoyed fresh; however, if you prefer it warmer, let it sit at room temperature for a bit before serving, but avoid reheating to retain its vibrant flavors.
Cucumber and Bell Pepper Salad Recipe FAQs
What should not be mixed with cucumber salad?
Absolutely avoid mixing strongly-flavored ingredients like strong cheeses and heavy dressings that can overpower the fresh flavors of the cucumbers. Also, pickled items might clash with the crisp freshness, so it’s best to keep those on the side.
What dressing goes on cucumber salad?
I recommend this delightful sesame-ginger dressing for your Cucumber and Bell Pepper Salad. The balance of extra virgin olive oil, rice vinegar, tamari or soy sauce, maple syrup, sesame oil, garlic, and fresh ginger creates a creamy and zesty coating that perfectly complements the fresh vegetables!
What is the trick for the most flavorful cucumber salad every time?
The trick lies in using fresh, ripe ingredients! Opt for mini cucumbers and sweet bell peppers, which are naturally crisp and flavorful. For an extra boost, make your dressing homemade—let it sit for a few minutes after preparing to meld the flavors together. Don’t forget to season to taste!
Do cucumbers and peppers go well together?
Absolutely! Cucumbers and bell peppers bring different textures and flavors that complement each other wonderfully. The crispness of cucumbers pairs beautifully with the sweetness of bell peppers, creating a delicious balance in every bite. This delightful duo is perfect for summer salads!
What not to pair with cucumbers?
Generally, avoid pairing cucumbers with foods that are heavy or oily, such as broiled meats, because their refreshing nature is best showcased with lighter, cleaner flavors. It’s also wise to steer clear of strong-flavored onions, as they can overpower the delicate taste of cucumbers.
Why must you not eat raw cucumber with meals?
Some people believe that raw cucumbers can hinder digestion when consumed with heavy meals. The belief is that they may cause bloating due to their high water content, so consider enjoying this Cucumber and Bell Pepper Salad as a refreshing side that complements your main dish without overwhelming your digestion.
Bright and Crunchy Cucumber and Bell Pepper Salad Bliss
A light, fresh, and vibrant Cucumber and Bell Pepper Salad that takes just 10 minutes to prepare, perfect for summer picnics and healthy meals.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free
Ingredients
- 2 mini cucumbers
- 4 mini sweet peppers
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unseasoned rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons tamari or soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 garlic clove
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger
- pinch black pepper
- 1 tablespoon everything but the bagel seasoning
- 1 tablespoon chili crisp
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing: In a blender, combine extra virgin olive oil, rice vinegar, tamari or soy sauce, maple syrup, sesame oil, minced garlic, fresh ginger, and a pinch of black pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy for that delightful sesame-ginger dressing.
- Slice the Veggies: Take your mini cucumbers and mini sweet peppers and slice them into bite-sized pieces. This helps ensure each bite is filled with refreshing crunch and vibrant color!
- Combine: In a large mixing bowl, add the sliced cucumbers and peppers. Toss them together gently, allowing the veggies to become familiar with one another.
- Add the Dressing: Pour your freshly made dressing over the salad mixture. Then, sprinkle in the everything bagel seasoning and chili crisp. Gently toss again until all the ingredients are well-coated.
- Adjust & Serve: Take a moment to taste your salad! If desired, add more seasoning, chili crisp, or dressing to achieve your perfect flavor balance. Serve immediately for the freshest experience.
Notes
- Choose the freshest mini cucumbers and bell peppers for a crunch that enhances the salad’s appeal.
- Feel free to tweak the sesame-ginger dressing according to your taste!
- Serve the Cucumber and Bell Pepper Salad chilled or at room temperature for the best flavor experience.
- If you have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 1-2 days.
- Consider adding radishes or jicama for additional texture and flavor variations.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
