If you’re looking for a vibrant, fresh salad that bursts with flavor and texture, the Cucumber and Sweet Pepper Salad with Sesame Ginger Dressing Recipe is an absolute must-try. This salad combines the crispness of Persian cucumbers with the sweet crunch of colorful mini bell peppers, all brought together by a luscious, homemade sesame ginger dressing that perfectly balances savory, sweet, and tangy notes. It’s a simple yet sensational dish that’s perfect for a quick lunch, a light dinner side, or a dazzling addition to any gathering.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this salad lies in its uncomplicated ingredients, each chosen to contribute a unique flavor or texture. From the nutty depth of sesame oil to the fresh zing of ginger and the vibrant colors of sweet peppers, every component plays a star role.
- Extra virgin olive oil: Provides a rich, fruity base for the dressing.
- Rice vinegar: Adds a gentle tanginess that brightens the flavors.
- Sesame oil: Brings a nutty aroma that deepens the dressing’s complexity.
- Soya sauce: Infuses umami and saltiness for balance.
- Grated ginger: Offers a fresh, spicy kick that invigorates the palate.
- Honey: Sweetens the dressing naturally, softening the sharper flavors.
- Mini sweet bell peppers: Provide crunch and bursts of color with their natural sweetness.
- Persian cucumbers: Their crisp texture and mild flavor cool the palate and complement the peppers.
- Sesame ginger dressing: The star accompaniment tying everything together with rich, zesty notes.
- Chili oil: Adds just the right amount of heat, customizable to your taste.
- Everything but the bagel seasoning: Delivers a savory, crunchy finish with onion, garlic, and sesame seeds.
How to Make Cucumber and Sweet Pepper Salad with Sesame Ginger Dressing Recipe
Step 1: Whisk the Dressing
Begin by whisking together extra virgin olive oil, rice vinegar, sesame oil, soya sauce, freshly grated ginger, and honey in a small bowl. This simple mix forms a beautifully balanced dressing that’s simultaneously tangy, sweet, and nutty — it really sets the tone for the salad.
Step 2: Combine the Salad Ingredients
Add your sliced mini sweet bell peppers and Persian cucumbers into a large mixing bowl. These fresh veggies provide that crisp, juicy texture that is so refreshing and satisfying.
Step 3: Toss with Dressing and Seasonings
Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently to coat every piece. Then, add the chili oil — start with a smaller amount and adjust based on how much heat you enjoy. Sprinkle with everything but the bagel seasoning for an irresistible, flavorful crunch that takes the salad to the next level.
Step 4: Chill or Serve Immediately
This salad is flexible—you can serve it straight away to enjoy the bright, fresh flavors, or chill it for a bit to allow the dressing to seep in even more. Either way, you’re in for a treat that’s as delicious as it is colorful.
How to Serve Cucumber and Sweet Pepper Salad with Sesame Ginger Dressing Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle extra toasted sesame seeds or fresh chopped cilantro on top to add an additional layer of flavor and visual appeal. You can even add a few thinly sliced green onions for a subtle sharpness that complements the dressing beautifully.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish, providing a bright contrast to smoky, savory mains. It also holds its own alongside a bowl of steamed jasmine rice or noodles, making it a perfect component for Asian-inspired meals.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this salad in individual glass jars or shallow bowls to showcase the vibrant colors. For parties, layer the ingredients and dressing separately in a trifle dish or a clear salad bowl to let guests mix their own portions, turning the enjoyment into an interactive experience!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Because the cucumbers release water over time, it’s best to keep the dressing separate if possible and toss just before serving to maintain the salad’s crispness.
Freezing
This salad is best enjoyed fresh and does not freeze well. Freezing would cause the cucumbers and sweet peppers to become mushy and lose their delightful texture.
Reheating
Since this is a fresh, cold salad, reheating is not recommended. Instead, enjoy it chilled or at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.
FAQs
Can I use regular cucumbers instead of Persian cucumbers?
Absolutely! Regular cucumbers can be used, but Persian cucumbers are preferred because they have thinner skins and fewer seeds, which means they’re less bitter and more tender in a salad like this.
Is the chili oil necessary in the salad?
Chili oil adds a nice, subtle heat that complements the sweetness of the peppers and honey in the dressing. However, you can omit it or reduce the amount if you prefer a milder version.
Can I prepare the dressing in advance?
Yes! The sesame ginger dressing can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Just give it a good whisk before using as the ingredients may separate over time.
What does “everything but the bagel seasoning” taste like?
It’s a savory mix of sesame seeds, dried garlic, onion, poppy seeds, and salt. It adds a crunchy, flavorful punch and is a fantastic way to elevate this salad with minimal effort.
Is this salad suitable for a vegan diet?
Definitely! All the ingredients used in the Cucumber and Sweet Pepper Salad with Sesame Ginger Dressing Recipe are plant-based, making it perfect for vegans and vegetarians alike.
Final Thoughts
This Cucumber and Sweet Pepper Salad with Sesame Ginger Dressing Recipe is a true celebration of fresh, simple ingredients brought together in an exciting and vibrant way. Its blend of crisp textures, bright colors, and bold flavors will quickly make it one of your favorite go-to salads, whether for a quick snack, a light meal, or an impressive dish to share. Go ahead and make it your own — you’ll be so glad you did!
Print
Cucumber and Sweet Pepper Salad with Sesame Ginger Dressing Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Fusion, Asian-Inspired
- Diet: Halal
Description
A refreshing and vibrant cucumber and sweet pepper salad tossed in a tangy sesame ginger dressing, perfect as a light appetizer or side dish. This easy no-cook recipe combines crisp mini sweet bell peppers and crunchy Persian cucumbers with a flavorful blend of soy, ginger, honey, and chili oil for a burst of Asian-inspired taste.
Ingredients
Dressing
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- ½ tablespoon rice vinegar
- ½ tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon soy 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
- 1–2 tablespoons chili oil (adjust to preference)
- 2–3 teaspoons everything but the bagel seasoning
Instructions
- Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, rice vinegar, sesame oil, soy sauce, grated ginger, and honey until well combined and smooth.
- Combine the salad ingredients: In a large mixing or serving bowl, add the sliced mini sweet bell peppers and sliced Persian cucumbers. Pour in the prepared sesame ginger dressing and toss everything together thoroughly to coat all pieces evenly.
- Adjust seasoning: Add chili oil to suit your preferred level of heat, starting with 1 tablespoon and increasing if desired. Sprinkle the everything but the bagel seasoning over the salad and toss gently to distribute the flavors evenly.
- Serve: Enjoy the salad immediately for a crisp, fresh taste or chill it in the refrigerator until ready to serve. The flavors meld beautifully when slightly chilled.
Notes
- The chili oil amount can be adjusted based on your heat preference.
- This salad is best served fresh but can be chilled for up to 2 hours before serving.
- Using Persian cucumbers adds a crisp texture and mild flavor, but regular cucumbers can be substituted if unavailable.
- For a gluten-free version, ensure the soy sauce used is gluten-free tamari.
