This Fresh Sweet Pepper Salad is perfect for summer! With colorful peppers, crunchy cucumbers, and a zesty dressing, it’s light, tasty, and oh-so-refreshing. 🍽️
Making this salad is a breeze! Just chop your veggies, toss them together, and drizzle with dressing. I love serving it at BBQs—it always disappears fast!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Bell Peppers: These are the stars of your salad! I love using a mix of red, yellow, and orange for a vibrant look and sweet taste. You could swap them for green peppers if you prefer a slightly less sweet flavor.
Cucumber: A large cucumber adds crunch. If you’re short on cucumbers, zucchini could work too. Just chop it similarly!
Red Onion: It offers a nice sharpness. If red onion is too strong for you, try using a mild onion or green onions instead. They’ll add color and flavor without the bite.
Cherry Tomatoes: They bring juiciness to the mix! Any tomatoes will do, but I think cherry or grape tomatoes are the best for their sweetness. If you don’t have those, diced regular tomatoes can be used too.
Fresh Parsley: This adds a fresh touch. Basil or cilantro can be substituted if you like their flavors better!
Feta Cheese: A great addition for creaminess and tang! You can skip it or use goat cheese if you want a different texture and flavor. Vegan cheese is also an option!
How Do I Make the Dressing Perfectly Balanced?
Getting the dressing right can really elevate your salad! It should be a balance of oil, acidity, and sweetness.
- Start by whisking together the olive oil and vinegar (or lemon juice). I usually use a 2:1 ratio of oil to acid.
- Add honey or maple syrup to bring some sweetness. Don’t go overboard; a teaspoon is a good start!
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste—this can really enhance the flavors.
Tasting as you go is key! Mix it up and adjust until it’s just right for your taste buds. You want it refreshing but tasty enough to complement the veggies!
Fresh Sweet Pepper Salad for Summer
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Vegetables:
- 3 sweet bell peppers (red, yellow, and orange), thinly sliced
- 1 large cucumber, diced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional:
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (for extra flavor)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Fresh Sweet Pepper Salad can be prepared in about 15 minutes, plus 30 minutes of chill time in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to blend perfectly. Overall, you’re looking at about 45 minutes from start to delicious enjoyment!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
Begin by washing all the vegetables. Thinly slice the sweet bell peppers into strips. Cut the cucumber into small dice, slice the red onion thinly, and halve the cherry tomatoes. Finally, chop the fresh parsley. Gather all these colorful veggies in a large mixing bowl.
2. Mix the Salad:
In the bowl with the veggies, add the chopped parsley. This adds a wonderful fresh touch. Give everything a gentle toss, so the veggies are mixed well but not smashed.
3. Whisk the Dressing:
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, red wine vinegar (or lemon juice), honey (or maple syrup), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk together until it’s well blended and slightly thickened. Taste a little bit and adjust the salt, pepper, or sweetness as you like!
4. Combine Everything:
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the vegetables evenly. If you’re using feta cheese, sprinkle it on top at this stage for added creaminess and flavor.
5. Chill and Serve:
Cover the salad and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors meld together and cools it down for a refreshing dish! When you’re ready to serve, give it a gentle stir and enjoy as a delightful side or a light main dish. Perfect for summer gatherings!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other veggies you enjoy, such as diced avocado, shredded carrots, or even corn for extra sweetness. Just make sure to chop everything into similar sizes for even mixing!
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Leftover salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, the veggies may lose some crunch. If you plan to have leftovers, consider adding the dressing just before serving to maintain freshness!
Is This Salad Vegan-Friendly?
Yes, this salad is naturally vegan without the feta cheese! Simply omit the feta or substitute with a vegan cheese option for a creamy touch without dairy.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the salad up to a day in advance. Just wait to add the dressing until shortly before serving to keep the vegetables crisp and fresh!
