Cucumber and Sweet Pepper Salad

This vibrant cucumber and sweet pepper salad combines crisp vegetables with a punchy ginger miso dressing for a refreshing side dish that takes minutes to prepare. The colorful medley of peppers creates an eye-catching presentation while delivering a satisfying crunch in every bite.

I discovered this salad recipe during a particularly hot summer when turning on the oven felt impossible. It quickly became my go to side dish for everything from grilled chicken to tofu.

Ingredients

• Mini cucumbers: Sliced in small rounds these provide the perfect crunch and have tender skins that don't need peeling
• Red bell pepper: Adds a sweet flavor profile and vibrant color to the mix
• Orange bell pepper: Offers slight variations in flavor and contributes to the rainbow presentation
• Yellow bell pepper: Completes the pepper trio with a mild taste and sunny appearance
• Ginger miso dressing: This umami rich sauce ties everything together with complexity
• Everything bagel seasoning: Delivers a perfect blend of sesame poppy and savory notes
• Chili crunch oil: Adds textural contrast and a gentle heat that elevates the entire dish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the vegetables:

Slice mini cucumbers into thin rounds about ¼ inch thick. Their size allows them to better absorb the flavors of the dressing while maintaining their signature crunch. Make sure to wash them thoroughly before slicing even though they have edible skins.

Cut the peppers:

Trim the tops from all three bell peppers and remove the seeds and white membrane from inside. Cut each pepper into small uniform pieces about the same size as your cucumber rounds. This ensures every bite has a balanced mix of flavors and textures.

Combine in bowl:

Transfer all cut vegetables to a large mixing bowl that provides ample space for tossing. Use a bowl larger than you think you need to prevent ingredients from spilling over the sides during mixing.

Add seasonings:

Drizzle your desired amount of ginger miso dressing over the vegetables. Start with less than you think you need you can always add more. Sprinkle everything bagel seasoning liberally across the surface. Finish with a few small spoonfuls of chili crunch oil distributed throughout the salad.

Toss to coat:

Gently fold all ingredients together using two large spoons or clean hands until every piece of vegetable is lightly coated with the dressing and seasonings. Take care not to crush the vegetables while mixing.

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The ginger miso dressing is truly the star of this recipe. I discovered it at a local Asian market and have been obsessed ever since. The combination of savory miso with zingy ginger creates the perfect backdrop for the fresh vegetables.

Make Your Own Dressing

If you cannot find premade ginger miso dressing simply make your own by whisking together 2 tablespoons white miso paste 1 tablespoon rice vinegar 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger 1 minced garlic clove 1 tablespoon sesame oil and 2 tablespoons neutral oil like grapeseed. This homemade version actually allows you to control the intensity of flavors which many home cooks prefer.

Substitution Options

This salad is incredibly forgiving and adaptable to what you have on hand. Regular cucumbers work well just peel and seed them first. Any color bell pepper will work so use what you have available. For the everything bagel seasoning a simple mix of sesame seeds salt and dried garlic makes a suitable replacement. Instead of chili crunch oil try a drizzle of sriracha or a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.

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Serving Suggestions

This refreshing salad pairs beautifully with grilled proteins like salmon teriyaki chicken or marinated tofu. It also makes an excellent side dish for rice bowls noodle dishes or as part of a larger spread of small plates. For a complete meal add some sliced avocado and edamame to increase the protein and healthy fat content. On hot summer days I often enjoy a larger portion as a light lunch with some crusty bread on the side.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What can I substitute for ginger miso dressing?

You can substitute with a simple vinaigrette made from rice vinegar, sesame oil, and a touch of honey. Other alternatives include tahini dressing, Asian-style sesame dressing, or a light yogurt-based dressing with lemon and herbs.

→ How long does this salad keep in the refrigerator?

This salad is best enjoyed immediately after preparation as noted in the instructions. If you need to store it, keep the dressing separate and combine just before eating. The undressed vegetables can be refrigerated for 1-2 days in an airtight container.

→ What is everything bagel seasoning and where can I find it?

Everything bagel seasoning is a blend typically containing sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried garlic, dried onion, and salt. It's available in most grocery stores in the spice section, or you can make your own by combining equal parts of these ingredients.

→ Can I add protein to make this a complete meal?

Absolutely! Add grilled chicken, shrimp, tofu, or edamame for protein. For a vegetarian option, chickpeas or a hard-boiled egg work well. You could also serve it alongside a protein-rich main dish.

→ What is chili crunch oil and what can I use instead?

Chili crunch oil is a condiment made from crispy chili flakes, garlic, and oil. Alternatives include sriracha, sambal oelek, a drizzle of hot sauce with a sprinkle of sesame seeds, or red pepper flakes infused in olive oil. For a milder option, try a plain sesame oil.

→ Can I prepare the vegetables ahead of time?

Yes, you can slice the cucumbers and peppers up to a day in advance and store them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. Just add the dressing and seasonings right before serving for the best texture and flavor.