Description
This Refreshing Cucumber and Bell Pepper Salad is a vibrant, healthy Mediterranean dish perfect for warm weather. Featuring crisp cucumbers, colorful bell peppers, and a light tangy dressing with olive oil and red wine vinegar, it’s a quick and easy no-cook salad that blends fresh flavors with a touch of garlic and herbs. Ideal as a side for BBQs, picnics, or a light lunch, this vegan and gluten-free recipe delivers a nutritious, low-calorie option full of crunch and zest.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 2 cups sliced cucumber (Persian or English)
- 1 cup thinly sliced red bell pepper
- 1 cup thinly sliced yellow or orange bell pepper
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
Herbs
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or dill
Dressing
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced cucumber, red and yellow or orange bell peppers, and red onion, ensuring even distribution of all the fresh ingredients.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar or lemon juice, optional honey, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until emulsified and well combined.
- Combine Salad and Dressing: Pour the dressing over the vegetable mixture and toss thoroughly to evenly coat all pieces with the flavorful dressing.
- Add Herbs and Mix: Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley or dill over the salad and gently mix again to integrate the herbs and enhance aroma and flavor.
- Let Flavors Marinate: Allow the salad to sit for 10 to 15 minutes at room temperature or chilled, so the flavors meld beautifully before serving.
- Serve: Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature as a refreshing side dish to any meal.
Notes
- You can add crumbled feta cheese or sliced avocado for a creamy texture contrast.
- For a spicy twist, include a few slices of fresh jalapeño or sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes.
- This salad pairs excellently with grilled meats or as a light stand-alone dish for picnics and BBQs.
