This bright and colorful sweet pepper salad is full of fresh flavors! With crunchy bell peppers, zesty lime, and a hint of sweetness, it’s a perfect side dish for any meal.
I love how easy it is to toss together! It’s my go-to for picnics, and honestly, I’ll snack on it right from the bowl. Who can resist such a tasty and healthy treat? 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bell Peppers: The star of this salad! I love using a mix of red and yellow for their sweetness and color. If you’re in a pinch, orange bell peppers work too!
Cucumber: A large cucumber adds a nice crunch here. Feel free to swap it for zucchini or even shredded carrots if you’re looking for a different texture.
Olive Oil: This is great for flavor and texture. If you’re out, avocado oil or sunflower oil can be good alternatives. They both have lighter flavors.
Apple Cider Vinegar: You can use lemon juice for a bright beak of flavor, or white wine vinegar if that’s what you have on hand. Each brings a slightly different zing.
Honey or Maple Syrup: This step is optional if you prefer a tart salad, but it can balance the flavors nicely. Brown sugar or agave syrup also work if you want to sweeten things up!
How Do You Make the Perfect Dressing for This Salad?
Making a dressing for salad might seem simple, but doing it right can elevate your dish. Follow these steps for a balanced and delicious dressing!
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and vinegar (or lemon juice) first. This helps with emulsifying the dressing.
- Add the honey or sweetener, followed by salt, pepper, and garlic powder if using. Mixing these in this order allows the flavors to blend better.
- Adjust the seasoning! Taste the dressing and see if it needs more sweetness or salt.
Let the dressing sit for a few minutes before pouring it over your salad. This gives the ingredients time to marry and enhances the overall taste. Enjoy!
How to Make Sweet Pepper Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Salad:
- 2 red bell peppers, sliced
- 2 yellow bell peppers, sliced
- 1 large cucumber, sliced into rounds
For The Dressing:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice)
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder (optional)
For Garnish:
- Fresh herbs (such as parsley or basil)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing Sweet Pepper Salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare and an additional 10-15 minutes to let the flavors blend together. It’s quick, simple, and perfect for a healthy side dish or light meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
Start by slicing your red and yellow bell peppers into thin strips. Then, slice the large cucumber into rounds. Toss all of these colorful veggies into a large mixing bowl. It’s all about those vibrant colors!
2. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), and honey (if you like a touch of sweetness). Add a pinch of salt and pepper, along with garlic powder if you choose to use it. Use a whisk or a fork to mix everything until smooth and well blended.
3. Combine and Toss:
Pour your dressing over the sliced vegetables in the bowl. Gently toss everything together until all the veggies are coated in that delicious dressing. This is where the magic happens!
4. Let It Rest:
Allow the salad to sit for about 10-15 minutes at room temperature. This helps the flavors meld and makes every bite even tastier!
5. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle some fresh herbs like parsley or basil on top for a lovely finishing touch. Now, grab your fork and enjoy your delightful Sweet Pepper Salad!
Can I Substitute Different Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other veggies such as cherry tomatoes, radishes, or even shredded carrots for added texture and flavor. Just be sure to adjust the dressing quantity if you add more vegetables!
How to Make This Vegan?
This salad is already vegan-friendly! Just skip the honey (or use maple syrup) and you’re good to go. The flavors from the peppers and dressing keep it delicious without any animal products.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store your Sweet Pepper Salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, for the freshest taste, it’s best enjoyed right after mixing. If you do have leftovers, consider storing the dressing separately to prevent the salad from getting soggy.
Can I Add More Sweetness Besides Honey?
Yes! If you want to enhance the sweetness, you can add more maple syrup or toss in some diced fruits like mango or peaches. Dried fruits like raisins or cranberries also work great for a sweet touch!
