If you’re on the lookout for a vibrant, refreshing side dish that bursts with flavor and color, the Cucumber and Sweet Pepper Salad with Sesame Ginger Dressing Recipe is an absolute must-try. This salad effortlessly combines crisp Persian cucumbers and sweet mini bell peppers with a luscious, tangy sesame ginger dressing that perfectly balances savory notes with a touch of sweetness and a hint of spice. It’s simple to prepare yet impressive in taste—a perfect addition to weeknight dinners or special gatherings that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Cucumber and Sweet Pepper Salad with Sesame Ginger Dressing Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Keeping the ingredients straightforward yet impactful is the secret here. Each element brings its own signature character, creating a dish that’s bright, crunchy, and delightfully flavorful.

Extra virgin olive oil: Adds a smooth, fruity base to the dressing, enhancing the flavors without overpowering them.
Rice vinegar: Offers a mild acidity that brightens the salad and balances the richness of the oils.
Sesame oil: Infuses the dressing with a distinct nutty aroma that’s essential for that authentic Asian-inspired flavor.
Soy sauce: Brings umami depth and a subtle saltiness to tie all ingredients together.
Fresh grated ginger: Provides a zesty warmth that beautifully complements the crisp vegetables.
Honey: Adds natural sweetness to counterbalance the tangy and savory components.
Mini sweet bell peppers (mixed colors): Their vibrant hues brighten up the plate while offering a delightful crunch and natural sweetness.
Persian cucumbers: These small, tender cucumbers provide a refreshingly crisp texture without overpowering bitterness.
Sesame ginger dressing: This ready-made component enhances the salad with an extra layer of punchy flavor.
Chili oil: Adds a customizable level of heat to give your salad a gentle kick or a fiery finish depending on your preference.
Everything but the bagel seasoning: Sprinkles hints of garlic, sesame seeds, and salt to elevate the dish to a new savory dimension.

How to Make Cucumber and Sweet Pepper Salad with Sesame Ginger Dressing Recipe

Step 1: Whisk Together the Sesame Ginger Dressing

Start by combining your olive oil, rice vinegar, sesame oil, soy sauce, freshly grated ginger, and honey in a small bowl. Whisk everything vigorously until the mixture is well emulsified and the honey has fully dissolved. This dressing sets the stage for the salad’s incredible balance of tang, sweetness, and nuttiness.

Step 2: Prepare the Fresh Vegetables

While the dressing is coming together, slice your mini sweet bell peppers into thin, colorful rings and cut the Persian cucumbers into bite-sized rounds. The key here is to maintain a uniform size so every forkful offers a perfect mix of textures. These crisp vegetables are the heart of the salad and their fresh crunch contrasts beautifully with the silky dressing.

Step 3: Toss the Salad

Combine the sliced peppers, cucumbers, and the pre-made sesame ginger dressing in a large mixing or serving bowl. Toss everything thoroughly so each piece is lightly coated in that luscious dressing. This step ensures the flavors marry perfectly while keeping the vegetables crisp and vibrant.

Step 4: Customize with Heat and Seasoning

Now it’s time to fine-tune your salad by adding the chili oil according to how spicy you like it. Then sprinkle the everything but the bagel seasoning over the top, incorporating garlicky, savory bursts in every bite. Toss gently once more to distribute these finishing touches evenly.

Step 5: Serve or Chill

Your salad is ready to enjoy right away for a fresh, zesty crunch, or you can chill it briefly to let the flavors meld a bit more. Either way, this dish is irresistibly refreshing and satisfying.

How to Serve Cucumber and Sweet Pepper Salad with Sesame Ginger Dressing Recipe

Garnishes

Consider sprinkling additional toasted sesame seeds or freshly chopped cilantro on top for an added burst of aroma and texture. A squeeze of fresh lime or lemon juice can also brighten the salad further just before serving.

Side Dishes

This salad plays beautifully alongside grilled chicken, seared salmon, or even a simple bowl of steamed jasmine rice. It’s the perfect light and fresh companion that can hold its own against heartier mains without stealing the spotlight.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning presentation, serve the salad in a clear glass bowl to highlight the rainbow colors of the sweet peppers. You can also layer it in individual jars for a charming picnic or lunchbox option. Adding edible flowers as a garnish can elevate it for special occasions.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This salad keeps well refrigerated in an airtight container for up to two days. Keep the dressing separate if possible to maintain maximum crunch in the vegetables. Otherwise, expect some softening but the flavors will continue to deepen deliciously.

Freezing

Because of the fresh vegetables and dressing, freezing is not recommended for this salad as it would significantly alter the texture and taste, resulting in a watery, less appealing dish once thawed.

Reheating

This salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature and is not intended to be reheated. If needed, allow chilled leftovers to sit out for a few minutes before eating to take the chill off.

FAQs

Can I use regular cucumbers instead of Persian cucumbers?

Absolutely! Just be sure to remove the seeds if your cucumbers are large or very watery to keep the salad crisp and prevent excess moisture.

Is there a substitute for honey in the dressing?

Maple syrup or agave nectar make great vegan-friendly alternatives and will retain the lovely sweetness that balances the dressing.

How spicy is this salad with chili oil?

The chili oil adds a gentle warmth that can be adjusted to your taste. Start with a small amount and increase if you want a bolder kick.

Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Yes, the dressing can be made up to a week in advance and stored in the fridge. Give it a good whisk before using as some separation may occur.

What does “everything but the bagel seasoning” include?

This seasoning blend typically contains sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried garlic, dried onion, and salt—adding a savory crunch that’s simply addictive.

Final Thoughts

If you’re seeking a fresh, colorful, and incredibly flavorful salad, the Cucumber and Sweet Pepper Salad with Sesame Ginger Dressing Recipe should be your next kitchen adventure. It’s quick, easy, and bound to brighten up any meal with its delightful crunch and irresistible dressing. Do yourself a favor and give it a whirl; this recipe might just become your new go-to for a healthy and tasty side!

Cucumber and Sweet Pepper Salad with Sesame Ginger Dressing Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.2 from 43 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 10 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

A refreshing and vibrant Cucumber and Sweet Pepper Salad featuring a flavorful sesame ginger dressing combined with crisp Persian cucumbers and colorful mini sweet bell peppers. This easy-to-make salad is perfect as a light side dish or a healthy snack.

Ingredients

Scale

Sesame Ginger Dressing

¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
½ tablespoon rice vinegar
½ tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon soya sauce
½ tablespoon grated ginger
1½ tablespoons honey

Salad

7–8 mini sweet bell peppers (mixed colors), sliced into rings
4 Persian cucumbers, sliced
¼ cup sesame ginger dressing (prepared above)
1–2 tablespoons chili oil (depending on preference)
2–3 teaspoons everything but the bagel seasoning

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Prepare the Sesame Ginger Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, rice vinegar, sesame oil, soya sauce, grated ginger, and honey until well combined and smooth.
Combine Salad Ingredients: In a mixing or serving bowl, add the sliced mini sweet bell peppers and Persian cucumbers. Pour in the prepared sesame ginger dressing.
Toss the Salad: Gently toss all the salad ingredients to ensure the peppers and cucumbers are evenly coated with the dressing.
Season the Salad: Add 1 to 2 tablespoons of chili oil according to your spice preference, and sprinkle 2 to 3 teaspoons of everything but the bagel seasoning. Toss lightly to distribute.
Serve or Chill: Serve the salad immediately for the freshest flavor or chill it in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Enjoy this crisp, tangy, and lightly spicy salad.

Notes

You can adjust the amount of chili oil to make the salad more or less spicy according to your taste.
Everything but the bagel seasoning adds a delightful crunchy texture and savory flavor; you can substitute it with sesame seeds and dried onion flakes if unavailable.
This salad is best served fresh but can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 1 day.
Use fresh Persian cucumbers as they are crisp and have thin skin, perfect for salads.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Salad
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: American