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Cucumber & Sweet Pepper Salad

Cucumber & Sweet Pepper Salad
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A vibrant and refreshing Cucumber & Sweet Pepper Salad combining crisp cucumbers, sweet bell peppers, and fresh herbs tossed in a light lemon-olive oil dressing. This easy-to-make, healthy salad is perfect as a side dish, snack, or light meal especially during warm summer days.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables

  • 2 firm, fresh cucumbers, sliced into thin rounds or half-moons
  • 2 cups mixed sweet bell peppers (red, yellow, orange), diced
  • 1 small red onion, thinly sliced

Herbs & Seasonings

  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or dill or mint)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Dressing

  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice or vinegar

Instructions

  1. Prep the Vegetables: Wash and dry the cucumbers and sweet bell peppers thoroughly. Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds or half-moons, depending on your preference, and dice the sweet peppers into bite-sized pieces. Thinly slice the red onion to add a subtle sharpness.
  2. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently toss the cucumbers, sweet peppers, and red onion together. This ensures an even distribution of flavors throughout the salad.
  3. Add Fresh Herbs: Chop your choice of fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or mint, then sprinkle them generously over the salad. Their bright aroma complements the crisp vegetables perfectly.
  4. Mix the Dressing: Whisk together extra virgin olive oil with fresh lemon juice or your preferred vinegar, then season with salt and pepper. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients in a light, flavorful dressing.
  5. Chill and Serve: Let the salad chill in the fridge for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Enjoy the refreshing crunch straight from the bowl or as a vibrant side dish.

Notes

  • Choose firm vegetables: Freshness and crunch make all the difference, so pick cucumbers and peppers that feel firm and vibrant.
  • Don’t overseason at first: Start with light seasoning and adjust after mixing to avoid overpowering the veggies.
  • Use fresh lemon juice: Bottled lemon juice won’t give the same bright, zesty flavor as fresh-squeezed.
  • Let it rest: Allowing the salad to sit for a bit enhances the flavor integration beautifully.
  • Dry your veggies well: Excess water can dilute the dressing, so pat cucumbers and peppers dry after washing.
  • Salting cucumber slices lightly and draining released water reduces excess moisture.

Nutrition

Keywords: cucumber salad, sweet pepper salad, summer salad, healthy salad, vegan salad, gluten free, fresh vegetables

Find it online: https://emillycooks.com/cucumber-sweet-pepper-salad/