This Easy Sweet Pepper Salad is the perfect summer dish! Bursting with colorful bell peppers, fresh herbs, and a zesty dressing, it’s refreshing and delightful.
You can whip it up in no time, and it adds a splash of color to any meal. I love serving it alongside grilled meats; it pairs so well! Plus, who doesn’t love a salad that looks like a rainbow? 🌈
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mini Sweet Bell Peppers: These colorful peppers add a sweet crunch and a beautiful presentation. If you can’t find mini peppers, regular bell peppers cut into thin strips work well, too. I really love the color mix, so choose a variety if possible!
Cucumber: Fresh cucumber adds coolness to the salad. You can substitute it with zucchini or even thinly sliced radishes for a peppery kick. Both options add different textures that are equally enjoyable.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil enhances the flavor. If you’re looking for a different taste, avocado oil is a great substitute. It’s neutral yet rich and perfect for dressings.
Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar provides a tangy zing, but white wine vinegar or even lemon juice can be used for a similar effect. I prefer vinegar for its balance, but you can adjust to your taste!
Honey or Maple Syrup: A little sweetness helps to balance the salad’s flavors. If you need a vegan option, maple syrup is fantastic, but agave syrup also works nicely.
How Do I Make the Perfect Salad Dressing?
Getting your dressing just right is key to a delicious salad! Here’s how you can nail it:
- Start by measuring your liquids—oil, vinegar, and any sweeteners—into a small bowl.
- Add in your spices such as garlic powder, smoked paprika, and crushed red pepper flakes.
- Whisk everything together until well blended. It should be smooth and slightly thick.
- Always taste test! Adjust the salt or honey according to your preference to achieve your desired flavor.
Letting the salad sit for a bit helps the dressing soak in and enhances the flavors. Enjoy your salad as a vibrant side for any summer meal!
Easy Sweet Pepper Salad Recipe for Summer
Ingredients:
- 1 cup mini sweet bell peppers, sliced into rings (a mix of red, orange, yellow)
- 1 medium cucumber, thinly sliced into rounds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1 tablespoon sesame seeds for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend a few minutes slicing the vegetables and making the dressing, and then you can let the salad sit to deepen the flavor. Perfect for a quick, refreshing side during the hot summer days!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
Start by washing the mini sweet peppers and cucumber thoroughly. Slice the sweet peppers into thin rings, removing any seeds as you go. Then, take your cucumber and cut it into thin rounds. The goal is to have pieces that are easy to eat and mix.
2. Combine Your Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the sliced sweet peppers and cucumber. This colorful mixture is not only tasty but will also brighten up your table!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a smaller bowl, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), crushed red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until the dressing becomes smooth and well combined.
4. Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the mixed vegetables. Toss everything together gently to ensure each slice is coated evenly with the dressing. This helps all the flavors meld together beautifully.
5. Let it Sit:
Allow the salad to sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes. This gives the vegetables time to absorb the flavors from the dressing, making every bite tasty!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Before serving, sprinkle sesame seeds on top for a little extra crunch if you like. Enjoy this salad chilled or at room temperature as a refreshing side dish with your favorite summer meals!
Enjoy this vibrant, crunchy, and slightly spicy sweet pepper salad perfect for hot days!
FAQ for Easy Sweet Pepper Salad Recipe
Can I Use Other Types of Peppers?
Absolutely! While mini sweet bell peppers are great for their sweetness and color, you can use regular bell peppers or even add a touch of heat with jalapeños or poblano peppers if you prefer a spicy kick. Just make sure to slice them thinly!
How Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
This salad is mostly vegan already! Just ensure to use maple syrup instead of honey, and you’re all set. The rest of the ingredients are plant-based, making it a refreshing option for everyone!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. Just keep it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. If you’re making it the day before, consider adding the dressing just before serving to keep the vegetables crisp.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. The salad may lose some crunch over time, but it will still be delicious! Just give it a good toss before serving any leftovers.
