Refreshing Salad with Crisp Cucumbers and Vibrant Sweet Peppers

Prep Time 15 mins
Rest Time 10 mins
Total Time 25 mins
Cuisine:
Courses: , , ,
Difficulty: Beginner
Servings: 4
Best Season: Summer
Description

This Refreshing Salad with Crisp Cucumbers and Vibrant Sweet Peppers is a light, colorful, and hydrating dish perfect for warm days. Featuring crunchy cucumbers, sweet bell peppers, and a zesty lemon-herb dressing, this salad bursts with freshness in every bite. Ideal for picnics, side dishes, or healthy lunches, this quick and easy recipe is packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and natural flavor — no cooking required!

Ingredients
    For the Salad Base:
  • 2 medium cucumbers (sliced thinly, skin on or off as preferred)
  • 1 large red bell pepper (deseeded and sliced into thin strips)
  • 1 large yellow bell pepper (deseeded and sliced into thin strips)
  • 0.5 medium red onion (finely sliced)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley (finely chopped)
  • 1 tbsp fresh mint (finely chopped, optional but refreshing)
    • For the Dressing:
  • 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 tsp honey
  • 0.5 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 0.5 tsp salt (or to taste)
  • 0.25 tsp black pepper (freshly ground)
  • 0.25 tsp dried oregano (optional, for aroma)
    • For Garnish (Optional):
  • 50 g feta cheese (crumbled, optional for extra creaminess, can omit for vegan)
  • 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds (adds nutty flavor)
Instructions
    Prepare the Vegetables
  1. 1
    Wash all vegetables thoroughly under cold running water. Thinly slice cucumbers and peppers into uniform pieces to ensure even texture. Halve the cherry tomatoes and finely slice the red onion. Add everything to a large mixing bowl.
    2. Mix the Dressing
  2. 2
    In a small bowl or jar, combine olive oil, lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and oregano. Whisk or shake well until the dressing becomes smooth and emulsified.
    3. Combine and Toss
  3. 3
    Pour the dressing over the prepared vegetables. Using salad tongs or clean hands, toss gently until all ingredients are evenly coated. Let the salad rest for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
    4. Garnish and Serve
  4. 4
    Just before serving, sprinkle chopped parsley and mint over the salad. For an extra touch, add crumbled feta cheese and toasted sesame seeds on top. Serve chilled for best flavor and crunch.
Note
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Best consumed fresh.
  • Vegan Option: Skip the feta cheese or replace it with vegan feta.
  • Add Protein: Turn it into a light meal by adding grilled chicken, chickpeas, or boiled eggs.
  • Flavor Boost: Add a sprinkle of sumac or a few olives for a Mediterranean twist.
  • Make Ahead: You can slice the vegetables a few hours earlier, but add dressing just before serving to maintain crunch.
Keywords: healthy, summer salad, vegetarian, easy, refreshing
Read it online: https://petitepanini.com/recipe/refreshing-salad-with-crisp-cucumbers-and-vibrant-sweet-peppers/