This vibrant Cucumber Sweet Pepper Salad is the perfect combination of crisp, refreshing vegetables with bold, savory flavors. It’s a light yet satisfying dish that brings together the cooling crunch of cucumbers, the sweet snap of mini peppers, and the aromatic punch of green onions, all tied together with zesty ginger dressing and everything bagel seasoning.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Cucumber Sweet Pepper Salad is about to become your new favorite side dish. The recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute entertaining. The crisp texture of the vegetables paired with the umami-rich everything bagel seasoning creates an addictive combination that keeps you coming back for more. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and packed with fresh vegetables, making it suitable for various dietary preferences. The ginger dressing adds a bright, tangy element that elevates this simple salad into something truly special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 6 mini cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 15 sweet mini peppers, thinly sliced
- 1 bunch green onions, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup ginger dressing
- 3 tsp everything bagel seasoning
- 1–2 tsp chili crunch or chili crisp
How to Make Cucumber Sweet Pepper Salad
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Vegetables Wash and dry all your vegetables thoroughly. Using a sharp knife or mandoline slicer, thinly slice the mini cucumbers into rounds about 1/8-inch thick. Remove the stems from the sweet mini peppers and slice them into thin rings. Trim the green onions and slice them thinly, using both the white and green parts.
Step 2: Combine the Vegetables In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, sweet peppers, and green onions. Gently toss them together to distribute evenly.
Step 3: Add the Dressing Pour the ginger dressing over the vegetable mixture. Using clean hands or salad tongs, toss everything together until all vegetables are well coated with the dressing.
Step 4: Season and Finish Sprinkle the everything bagel seasoning evenly over the salad and toss gently to distribute. Add chili crunch or chili crisp to taste, starting with 1 teaspoon and adding more if you prefer extra heat and crunch.
Step 5: Let it Marinate Allow the Cucumber Sweet Pepper Salad to sit for 10-15 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together. Give it a final gentle toss before plating.
Helpful Tips
Choose firm, crisp cucumbers and peppers for the best texture. If your vegetables seem watery, you can lightly salt the sliced cucumbers and let them drain in a colander for 15 minutes before adding them to the salad. Pat them dry with paper towels before proceeding with the recipe.
For the most vibrant presentation, try to slice all vegetables uniformly thin. A mandoline slicer makes this task much easier and ensures consistent results. If you don’t have one, take your time with a sharp knife to achieve even slices.
The ginger dressing can be store-bought or homemade. If making your own, combine rice vinegar, sesame oil, fresh grated ginger, soy sauce, and a touch of honey for a balanced flavor profile.
Details
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Serves: 4-6 people
Difficulty: Easy
Diet: Gluten-free, Dairy-free, Vegan (depending on dressing)
Notes
This Cucumber Sweet Pepper Salad is best served fresh but can be made up to 2 hours ahead of time. The vegetables will release some water as they sit, so you may want to drain off excess liquid before serving if made in advance.
Feel free to customize the heat level by adjusting the amount of chili crunch or substituting with your favorite hot sauce. You can also add sesame seeds or crushed peanuts for extra crunch and flavor.
For a more substantial meal, try adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to transform this side dish into a light lunch or dinner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time? While this Cucumber Sweet Pepper Salad is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare it up to 2 hours in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator and drain any excess liquid before serving.
What can I substitute for ginger dressing? You can use sesame-ginger vinaigrette, Asian-style salad dressing, or make your own with rice vinegar, sesame oil, soy sauce, and fresh ginger.
How do I prevent the salad from getting watery? Salt the sliced cucumbers lightly and let them drain for 15 minutes before adding to the salad. This draws out excess moisture and helps maintain the salad’s crisp texture.
Can I add other vegetables? Absolutely! Try adding thinly sliced radishes, snap peas, or julienned carrots for extra color and crunch.
Storage Instructions
Store leftover Cucumber Sweet Pepper Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The salad will release moisture over time, so drain any excess liquid before serving leftovers. For best quality and texture, consume within 24 hours of preparation.
Conclusion
This Cucumber Sweet Pepper Salad proves that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors. With its perfect balance of crisp textures, zesty dressing, and savory seasonings, it’s a versatile dish that complements any meal. Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled meats, as part of a mezze platter, or enjoying it as a light lunch, this salad delivers fresh, vibrant flavors that will brighten your table. The best part? It comes together in just 15 minutes, making it an ideal choice for both everyday meals and special occasions.