Description
This Cucumber and Sweet Pepper Salad is the perfect quick and refreshing dish for busy days! Made with mini cucumbers, sweet peppers, everything bagel seasoning, chili crisp sauce, and a splash of ginger dressing, this light and vibrant salad comes together in just 10 minutes. It’s a healthy, low-calorie, and customizable recipe that’s perfect for lunch, a side dish, or meal prep. Fresh, crunchy, and full of flavor, it’s a crowd-pleaser that pairs beautifully with grilled meats or can be enjoyed on its own.
Ingredients
3 mini cucumbers, sliced into thin rounds
6 mini sweet peppers, sliced into rings or strips
1 tsp Everything Bagel Seasoning
2 tbsp Chili Crisp Sauce (adjust to your spice preference)
2 tbsp Ginger Dressing (adjust to your taste)
Instructions
Prepare the Vegetables:
Wash the mini cucumbers and sweet peppers under cold water to remove dirt.
Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds and cut the sweet peppers into rings or strips. Try to keep the slices uniform for a more attractive presentation.
Combine the Vegetables:
In a large mixing bowl, toss the sliced cucumbers and sweet peppers together, ensuring all the vibrant colors are mixed well.
Add the Seasonings:
Sprinkle the Everything Bagel Seasoning over the veggies, drizzle with chili crisp sauce, and add the ginger dressing.
Stir Gently:
Stir the salad gently to coat the vegetables evenly with the seasonings. Be careful not to bruise the veggies—this will help keep the salad crunchy and fresh.
Taste and Adjust:
Taste the salad and adjust the chili crisp sauce and ginger dressing to suit your flavor preference. Add more spice if you like a little extra kick!
Serve & Enjoy:
Serve the salad immediately for the freshest flavor. If you prefer, you can let the salad chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together. It can be served as a side dish, a light lunch, or a refreshing snack.
Notes
Optional Variations & Dietary Adaptations:
Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a heartier meal.
Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like cilantro, parsley, or mint will elevate the flavor and add an aromatic twist.
Cheese: Crumble feta or goat cheese over the salad for a creamy addition.
Nuts & Seeds: Add toasted almonds or sunflower seeds for extra crunch.
Spicy Kick: If you like it hot, sprinkle in some jalapeños or drizzle with sriracha for a fiery bite.
Expert Tips:
Fresh Vegetables: For the best flavor, always use fresh cucumbers and mini sweet peppers.
Chill Time: If possible, let the salad chill for about 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors develop.
Custom Seasonings: Don’t hesitate to swap the Everything Bagel Seasoning for other seasonings, such as Italian seasoning or garlic powder, depending on your taste.
Squeeze of Lemon: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a burst of citrusy brightness.
Storage & Meal Prep:
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days.
Meal Prep: Prepare the veggies and seasonings in advance. Keep the components separate until ready to serve to maintain the crunch.
Refrigeration: Make sure to give the salad a quick stir before serving again if it’s been stored for a while.
FAQs:
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare this salad a few hours in advance. For the best results, keep it in the fridge for no more than 2-3 days to preserve the crispness of the vegetables.
What if I can’t find mini cucumbers?
You can easily swap regular cucumbers for mini ones. Just peel the skin if needed and slice them into similar-sized pieces to match the mini sweet peppers.
Can I customize the seasonings?
Absolutely! Adjust the seasonings to your liking—add more chili crisp for spice or drizzle with more ginger dressing for extra sweetness. You can also experiment with garlic powder or a dash of lemon pepper for a fresh twist.
Is this salad suitable for a weight loss diet?
Yes! This salad is low in calories and high in fiber, making it a great option for anyone looking to maintain or lose weight. It’s refreshing, filling, and healthy!
How can I make this salad vegan-friendly?
This salad is already vegan as long as you use a plant-based ginger dressing. You can also add more veggies or a plant-based protein to make it heartier.
Serving Suggestions:
Grilled Meat Pairing: This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or tofu for a complete meal.
As a Side Dish: Serve it alongside grilled meats, sandwiches, or any light summer meal.
Refreshing Snack: Perfect for a midday snack, especially on warm days when you need something light and hydrating.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Chill Time (optional): 30 minutes
