When the days grow warm and the appetite craves something light and refreshing, a salad can be the perfect answer. This Vibrant Sweet Pepper and Cucumber Salad is a feast for the eyes and the palate. Packed with colorful sweet bell peppers, crisp cucumbers, and the zesty punch of red onion, this salad is both delicious and nutritious. The addition of a simple yet flavorful dressing of olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and a touch of honey or maple syrup makes this dish irresistible. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish, a light lunch, or a picnic staple, this salad is sure to brighten any table.
Ingredients:
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 3 sweet bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange), thinly sliced
- ¼ red onion, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice)
- 1 teaspoon of honey or maple syrup (optional, for a touch of added sweetness)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: Feta cheese or olives for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Start by thoroughly washing the cucumbers, bell peppers, and red onion.
- Thinly slice the cucumbers into rounds and place them in a large mixing bowl.
- Core the bell peppers, remove the seeds, and slice them into thin strips.
- Stir in the honey or maple syrup (if using) into the bowl with the cucumbers.
- Slice the red onion thinly and add it to the bowl, separating the slices as you go.
- Chop the Parsley:
- Finely chop the fresh parsley and add it to the bowl with the sliced vegetables.
- The parsley will add a burst of freshness and a pop of green to the salad.
- Make the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), and honey or maple syrup if you prefer a touch of sweetness.
- Season the dressing with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine the Salad:
- Pour the dressing over the sliced vegetables and chopped parsley in the large mixing bowl.
- Gently toss the salad until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Optional Garnishes:
- If desired, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese or sliced olives over the top of the salad before serving.
- These additions can add a nice salty contrast to the sweet peppers and cucumbers.
- Serve:
- Transfer the salad to a serving dish or enjoy it directly from the mixing bowl.
- This salad is best served fresh, but it can also be chilled in the refrigerator for a few hours to allow the flavors to meld together.
Conclusion:
The Vibrant Sweet Pepper and Cucumber Salad is a perfect embodiment of fresh, summery flavors. With its crisp, crunchy texture and bright, colorful appearance, this salad is as appealing to the eye as it is to the taste buds. The simple yet flavorful dressing ties everything together, making it a versatile dish that can be served on its own or as a complement to a variety of main courses. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, preparing a light lunch, or just looking for a healthy side dish, this salad is sure to impress and refresh.