This easy and refreshing pickled cucumber salad with peppers is a perfect side dish for any meal. With crisp cucumbers, sweet peppers, and the perfect balance of tangy and savory flavors, this salad is quick to make and deliciously satisfying. The combination of vinegar, sugar, and salt creates a lovely tangy dressing that brings the fresh vegetables to life. It’s light, crunchy, and perfect for hot days or as an accompaniment to grilled meats.
Preparation, Cook, and Total Times
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Cuisine: Salad, Mediterranean, Side Dish
Ingredients
- 1 cucumber
- Salt, to taste
- Sugar, to taste
- 1 onion
- Olive oil, for dressing
- 1 Bulgarian red pepper
- 1 yellow pepper
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
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Prepare the Vegetables
Wash and peel the cucumber if desired (leaving the skin on is optional for extra crunch). Slice it into thin rounds or half-moons. Peel and finely slice the onion. Remove the seeds and stems from the Bulgarian red pepper and yellow pepper, and slice them into thin strips or bite-sized pieces. -
Toss the Vegetables
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced cucumber, onion, and peppers. Toss everything together until well mixed. -
Season the Salad
Sprinkle salt and sugar over the vegetables according to your taste preferences. A pinch of salt and a teaspoon of sugar is usually enough, but feel free to adjust to your liking. -
Add Olive Oil
Drizzle a small amount of olive oil over the salad and toss it again to coat the vegetables evenly. Olive oil adds a rich, smooth texture that complements the crunch of the vegetables. -
Let the Salad Rest
Allow the salad to sit for 5 minutes to let the flavors meld together. This also allows the vegetables to soften slightly and absorb the seasoning. -
Serve
Once the salad has rested, give it one last gentle toss, and it’s ready to serve! Enjoy this fresh, crunchy side dish with your favorite meal.
Nutritional Information
- Serving size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 50
- Total Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 10g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 1g
- Vitamin A: 10%
- Vitamin C: 50%
- Calcium: 2%
- Iron: 2%
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
Pickled vegetables are a staple in many Mediterranean and Eastern European cuisines. In particular, pickled cucumbers and peppers have been enjoyed for centuries due to their ability to preserve vegetables and enhance their flavors. The tangy, sweet, and salty profile of pickled cucumbers paired with the crispness of fresh peppers has made this salad a favorite accompaniment to many meals, especially in warm weather.
Reasons Why You’ll Love the Recipe
- Simple and Quick: This salad comes together in less than 15 minutes, making it a perfect option for busy days or when you need a fresh side dish in a hurry.
- Refreshing and Light: With its crisp vegetables and light dressing, this salad is refreshing and healthy.
- Versatile: It pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a snack on its own.
- Customizable: You can adjust the sweetness, saltiness, and oil to your taste, and add additional seasonings like black pepper or herbs for extra flavor.
Health Benefits
- Low in Calories: This salad is light, making it perfect for those looking to enjoy a healthy, low-calorie dish.
- Rich in Vitamins: The cucumber and peppers provide essential vitamins, including vitamin C, which helps boost the immune system and support skin health.
- Hydrating: Cucumber is made up of about 95% water, making this salad hydrating and great for maintaining hydration levels.
- Good for Digestion: The fiber from the cucumber and peppers can help with digestion and promote gut health.
Serving Suggestions
- With Grilled Meats: This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or lamb for a balanced and satisfying meal.
- In Sandwiches or Wraps: Use this salad as a topping for sandwiches or wraps to add crunch and flavor.
- With a Light Dip: Serve with a yogurt-based dip like tzatziki for extra flavor and creaminess.
- As a Snack: Enjoy it as a light, healthy snack on its own, especially during warm weather.
Cooking Tips
- Adjust the Salt and Sugar: Taste the salad after mixing and adjust the salt and sugar to your preference.
- Use Fresh, Crisp Vegetables: Make sure your cucumber and peppers are fresh for the best texture and flavor.
- Let it Rest: Allow the salad to sit for a few minutes to let the flavors meld and the vegetables absorb the seasoning.
Variations to Try
- Add Fresh Herbs: For extra flavor, sprinkle in some fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or basil.
- Add Vinegar: If you prefer a more tangy flavor, drizzle some apple cider vinegar or white vinegar over the salad.
- Include Other Vegetables: Feel free to add other crunchy vegetables like carrots, celery, or radishes for added texture and flavor.
Conclusion
This simple and refreshing pickled cucumber salad with peppers is a versatile and delicious dish that can be enjoyed with a variety of meals or as a healthy snack. The balance of tangy, sweet, and savory flavors makes it a crowd-pleasing side dish. Quick to prepare, customizable, and packed with nutrients, this salad will definitely become a staple in your kitchen!
10 Comprehensive FAQs
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Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this salad ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. The flavors will continue to develop. -
Can I use a different type of oil?
Yes, you can substitute olive oil with another mild oil, like avocado oil or sunflower oil. -
Can I add more vegetables to the salad?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like tomatoes, carrots, or celery for more texture and flavor. -
How can I make the salad spicier?
Add a small amount of chili flakes or a sliced jalapeño to the salad for a spicy kick. -
Is this salad suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, this salad is vegan-friendly as long as you use plant-based yogurt or skip the dairy altogether. -
Can I make this salad without vinegar?
Yes, the combination of salt, sugar, and olive oil will still give you a flavorful salad without vinegar. -
Can I add more fruit to the salad?
Yes, you can add fruits like apple slices, pears, or pomegranate seeds for a sweeter twist. -
How can I make the salad more filling?
Add protein-rich ingredients like chickpeas, tofu, or grilled chicken to make the salad more filling. -
Can I use different peppers?
Yes, you can use any color of bell peppers, or even spicy peppers like jalapeños, if you prefer a little heat. -
How do I store leftover salad?
Store the leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Enjoy your fresh, crunchy pickled cucumber salad!