Viral Sweet Pepper Salad

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The first time I made this Viral Sweet Pepper Salad, I was looking for a quick and healthy side dish for a last-minute backyard barbecue. With a mix of crisp cucumbers, sweet bell peppers, and a zesty sesame dressing, it turned out to be the unexpected star of the table. What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity—just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time make it ideal for beginner cooks.

This Viral Sweet Pepper Salad is perfect for anyone who wants a light, refreshing dish that’s packed with flavor and crunch. It’s naturally gluten-free, vegetarian, and can easily be made vegan. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a side dish for grilled meats, or a meal prep staple, this salad is a go-to option.

Why This Recipe is Special

Minimal ingredients, maximum flavor – This salad only requires a few fresh vegetables and a simple dressing, but the combination of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors makes it incredibly satisfying.
Beginner-friendly – No complicated cooking techniques or fancy tools are required. If you can chop vegetables and mix ingredients, you can make this dish.

Quick and convenient – With just 10 minutes of prep time, this salad is an easy addition to any meal.
Healthy and nutritious – Cucumbers and bell peppers are loaded with vitamins and antioxidants, making this a guilt-free way to enjoy something delicious.

Ingredients and Preparation

Ingredients:

Cucumbers – Provide a cool, refreshing crunch. Persian cucumbers are ideal, but English cucumbers also work well.

Mini sweet bell peppers – Add natural sweetness and a vibrant color mix. Red, orange, and yellow peppers are best for a balanced flavor.
Chili crisp oil – Gives the salad a mild spice and depth of flavor. If you prefer a milder taste, use regular olive oil.
Ginger sesame dressing – A tangy, nutty dressing that brings all the flavors together. Any Asian-style sesame dressing works.

Everything But the Bagel seasoning – Enhances the taste with a mix of sesame seeds, garlic, onion, and salt.

Ingredient Substitutes:

No mini cucumbers? Use standard cucumbers but peel and seed them for a better texture.
Want less spice? Swap chili crisp oil for regular olive or avocado oil.

Prefer a different dressing? A mix of soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil makes a great homemade alternative.
Extra crunch? Add chopped nuts like almonds or cashews.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Slice the cucumbers and bell peppers into thin rounds. Try to keep them uniform in size for even mixing.

Step 2: In a large bowl, add the sliced vegetables. Pour in the chili crisp oil and sesame dressing.

Step 3: Sprinkle the Everything But the Bagel seasoning over the top. Toss the ingredients together until everything is evenly coated.

Step 4: Cover and chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together.

Step 5: Serve chilled and enjoy! This salad can be stored in an airtight container for up to four days.

Beginner Tips and Notes

Avoid soggy cucumbers by slicing them right before mixing. If prepping in advance, store the cucumbers separately and mix when ready to eat.
Enhance the flavor by letting the salad marinate for a few hours. The longer it sits, the more the flavors develop.

Make it a meal by adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or cooked quinoa for added protein and texture.
Need a milder taste? Reduce the chili oil or replace it with lemon juice for a fresh, tangy twist.

Serving Suggestions

As a side dish – Perfect with grilled meats like chicken, steak, or fish.

Over rice or quinoa – Turns it into a light, nutritious meal.
With cottage cheese – A protein-packed, creamy contrast to the crisp veggies.
Inside a wrap – Add it to a tortilla with hummus or grilled chicken for a delicious, healthy wrap.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a quick and easy salad that’s packed with fresh flavors, this Viral Sweet Pepper Salad is a must-try. Its simplicity makes it great for beginner cooks, while the vibrant flavors make it a hit at any gathering. Try it out, and let me know in the comments how you liked it or if you made any fun variations! Happy cooking!

FAQ About Viral Sweet Pepper Salad

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! This salad actually tastes better after sitting for a few hours as the flavors meld together. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days.

Can I use a different type of dressing?

Absolutely! While ginger sesame dressing adds a great Asian-inspired flavor, you can swap it for balsamic vinaigrette, lemon garlic dressing, or even a light olive oil and vinegar mix.

What can I add to make this salad a full meal?

You can add grilled chicken, shrimp, tofu, or chickpeas for extra protein. A scoop of cooked quinoa or a handful of nuts and seeds also makes it more filling.

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