Cucumber Sweet Pepper Delight

This vibrant cucumber sweet pepper salad brings together crisp vegetables with a bright, tangy dressing for the ultimate refreshing side dish. The colorful mix of bell peppers creates a stunning visual presentation while delivering a perfect balance of flavors that complement almost any meal.

I first made this salad for a summer potluck when temperatures soared above 90°F, and it disappeared faster than any other dish on the table. Now it's my go-to recipe whenever fresh cucumbers and peppers are abundant in my garden or at the farmers market.

Ingredients

• Cucumbers: the star of the show providing refreshing crunch and hydration choose firm ones with minimal seeds
• Bell peppers: in three colors not just for visual appeal each brings a slightly different flavor profile
• Red onion: adds a pleasant bite that balances the sweetness of the peppers slice them extra thin
• Fresh dill: the herbaceous note that elevates this from ordinary to memorable
• Olive oil: use a good quality extra virgin for the best flavor
• Apple cider vinegar: brings brightness and tanginess to the dressing
• Lemon juice: adds a fresh citrus note that wakes up all the flavors
• Honey: just enough to balance the acidity without making the salad sweet

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the vegetables:

Slice cucumbers bell peppers and red onion into thin uniform pieces for even flavor distribution and the most appealing presentation. I find that slicing the cucumbers about 1/8 inch thick gives the perfect texture.

Create the dressing:

Whisk olive oil apple cider vinegar lemon juice and honey until fully emulsified. This takes about 30 seconds of vigorous whisking until the mixture looks slightly thickened and unified.

Combine and coat:

Add all vegetables to a large bowl then pour the dressing evenly over everything. The generous surface area of thinly sliced vegetables allows for maximum flavor absorption.

Add fresh herbs:

Sprinkle chopped dill throughout the salad and gently toss everything together. The fragrant dill distributes beautifully among the colorful vegetables adding little bursts of flavor in every bite.

Season thoughtfully:

Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste starting with less than you think you need. The vegetables will release some moisture as they sit which can intensify the seasoning.

Allow flavors to meld:

Let the salad rest in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes or up to several hours. This crucial resting period allows the vegetables to soften slightly and absorb the bright flavors of the dressing.

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My favorite part of this salad is how the dill interacts with the sweet peppers. My grandmother always grew dill in her garden specifically for cucumber salads, and that aromatic herbal note instantly transports me back to summer dinners on her porch with family gathered around the table.

Make-Ahead Tips

This salad actually improves with a little time in the refrigerator. You can prepare it up to 24 hours in advance, which makes it perfect for entertaining or meal prep. The vegetables will soften slightly but maintain their pleasant crunch. If making significantly ahead of time, I recommend adding the fresh dill just before serving to preserve its vibrant green color and aromatic qualities.

Customization Options

The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility. Consider adding feta cheese for a creamy tangy element, or toss in some halved cherry tomatoes for juicy sweetness. For protein, grilled chicken, chickpeas, or cubed tofu integrate beautifully. You can also swap the dill for fresh mint or basil depending on what you have on hand or the flavor profile you prefer.

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Serving Suggestions

Serve this salad alongside grilled fish or chicken for a complete summer meal that feels both satisfying and light. It also pairs wonderfully with Mediterranean dishes like hummus and pita or Greek-style grilled meats. For a beautiful presentation, serve in a wide, shallow bowl that showcases the colorful vegetables, and finish with an extra sprinkle of fresh herbs and a twist of black pepper.

Nutritional Benefits

This salad isn't just delicious it's also packed with nutrients. The colorful bell peppers provide excellent vitamin C while cucumbers offer hydration and digestive benefits. The olive oil delivers healthy fats that help your body absorb the fat-soluble vitamins in the vegetables. Even the apple cider vinegar has potential health benefits, including digestive support and blood sugar regulation.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can other vegetables be added?

Yes, crisp vegetables like cherry tomatoes or shredded carrots are great additions.

→ Can the dressing be made ahead of time?

Absolutely, the dressing can be mixed and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

→ What type of vinegar works best?

Apple cider vinegar is preferred for its mild tang, but white wine vinegar is a good alternative.

→ How long can this be stored?

Store the salad in the refrigerator in a tightly sealed container for up to 2 days.

→ Can dried dill be used instead of fresh?

Yes, but use only a teaspoon of dried dill as it is more concentrated in flavor.