Refreshing & Crunchy Cucumber Pepper Salad Recipe

This Cucumber Pepper Salad is a light, refreshing, and colorful dish that’s perfect for any meal. Packed with crisp cucumbers, sweet bell peppers, and a tangy dressing, it’s an easy and nutritious salad that comes together in minutes. Whether you’re looking for a healthy side dish, a quick lunch, or a vibrant addition to your meal prep routine, this salad is a fantastic choice. It’s naturally low in calories, rich in vitamins, and full of fresh flavors that make it a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—you can customize it with your favorite herbs, cheeses, or proteins to make it uniquely yours. If you’re searching for a simple yet delicious salad that pairs well with almost anything, this Cucumber Pepper Salad will quickly become one of your go-to recipes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are plenty of reasons to love this crisp and flavorful salad. First, it’s incredibly easy to make and requires just a handful of fresh ingredients. Second, it’s a great way to add more vegetables to your diet while enjoying a dish that feels light yet satisfying. Third, it’s naturally gluten-free, vegan, and packed with essential vitamins and antioxidants. Finally, the combination of crunchy cucumbers, juicy bell peppers, and a bright, zesty dressing makes every bite deliciously refreshing. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish, a light snack, or a meal prep option, this salad is sure to impress.

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Ingredients Needed

• 2 large cucumbers (thinly sliced)
• 1 red bell pepper (thinly sliced)
• 1 yellow bell pepper (thinly sliced)
• ½ red onion (thinly sliced)
• ¼ cup fresh parsley (chopped)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon honey
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 120
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 2g
• Net Carbs: 8g

This makes it an excellent choice for a low-calorie, nutrient-packed dish that’s both delicious and satisfying.

Kitchen Equipment Required

To prepare this Cucumber Pepper Salad, you’ll need: a sharp knife for slicing the vegetables evenly, a cutting board to keep everything organized, a large salad bowl for tossing the ingredients together, and a small whisk or spoon to mix the dressing. These simple tools will help make the process quick and effortless.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Wash and dry all the vegetables thoroughly. Thinly slice the cucumbers, red bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, and red onion. Chop the parsley and set everything aside.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and black pepper until well combined. This dressing adds a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess.

Step 3: Combine and Toss

In a large salad bowl, add the sliced cucumbers, bell peppers, and red onion. Drizzle the dressing over the top and toss everything gently to coat the vegetables evenly.

Step 4: Let It Marinate

For the best flavor, let the salad sit for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the dressing to soak into the vegetables and enhance their taste.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once the salad has marinated, sprinkle fresh parsley on top and serve immediately. Enjoy this refreshing salad as a side dish, light meal, or healthy snack.

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Tips for the Best Cucumber Pepper Salad

To ensure your salad turns out perfectly every time, use fresh and crisp cucumbers, preferably English or Persian varieties, as they have fewer seeds and a crunchier texture. Slice the vegetables as thinly as possible to help them absorb the dressing and blend well together. If you prefer a stronger onion flavor, let the sliced red onion soak in cold water for 5 minutes before adding it to the salad to reduce its sharpness. For an extra burst of flavor, try adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Variations & Additions

There are endless ways to customize this Cucumber Pepper Salad to suit your taste. Add crumbled feta cheese for a creamy and salty contrast. Toss in cherry tomatoes or avocado for extra texture and nutrients. Mix in fresh basil, cilantro, or dill to change up the flavor profile. If you want more protein, top the salad with grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas. Swap apple cider vinegar for balsamic vinegar or lemon juice for a slightly different tang. These variations help keep the salad exciting and versatile.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One common mistake is slicing the cucumbers too thick, which can make them harder to absorb the dressing and less flavorful. Another mistake is overdressing the salad—too much dressing can make the vegetables soggy, so start with a small amount and add more if needed. Using cucumbers with too many seeds can result in extra moisture, so opt for seedless varieties or scoop out the seeds before slicing. Skipping the resting time prevents the flavors from melding properly, so letting the salad sit for at least 10 minutes enhances the overall taste.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, since cucumbers release water over time, the salad may become slightly watery. To keep it fresh, store the dressing separately and mix it in just before serving. If the salad becomes too watery, simply drain off the excess liquid and refresh it with a little extra dressing.

Serving Suggestions

This Cucumber Pepper Salad pairs well with a variety of main dishes and sides. Serve it alongside grilled chicken, fish, or tofu for a well-balanced meal. Enjoy it as a refreshing side for sandwiches, wraps, or burgers. Use it as a topping for grain bowls or serve it over quinoa for added texture. It also works great as a light appetizer with a side of hummus or whole-grain crackers. However you choose to serve it, this salad complements a wide range of meals.

Notes

• If making this salad ahead of time, store the dressing separately and mix just before serving to keep the cucumbers crisp.
• You can substitute the apple cider vinegar with lemon juice or white wine vinegar for a slightly different flavor.
• For extra crunch, add sliced almonds, sunflower seeds, or toasted sesame seeds.
• If you like a spicy kick, toss in a few thinly sliced jalapeños.

Conclusion

This Cucumber Pepper Salad is a simple yet delicious way to add freshness and color to your meals. With its crisp vegetables, vibrant dressing, and endless customization options, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it’s also packed with essential nutrients and naturally low in calories. Whether you’re looking for a healthy side dish, a light lunch, or a meal prep option, this salad is the perfect choice. Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to share your results! If you loved this salad, make sure to subscribe for more easy and nutritious meal ideas.

🕒 Prep Time: 10 minutes
🔥 Cook Time: 0 minutes
⏳ Total Time: 10 minutes
🍽 Serves: 4
🔥 Calories Per Serving: 120

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