This Fresh Sweet Pepper Salad is a burst of color and flavor, perfect for summer! With crunchy bell peppers, zesty lemon, and fragrant herbs, it’s refreshing and light.
I love how quick it is to whip up, making it a great side for any barbecue. Plus, it’s so pretty that it feels like a party on your plate! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bell Peppers: Using red, yellow, and orange peppers makes the salad visually appealing and adds sweetness. If you’re in a pinch, green bell peppers can work, but they will have a more bitter taste.
Red Onion: They provide a mild and slightly sweet flavor. You can swap in green onions for a milder bite, or use a sweeter onion like Vidalia if you want a hint of sweetness.
Cherry Tomatoes: Their juicy burst brings freshness. If you don’t have cherry tomatoes, you can cut regular tomatoes into chunks or use other bite-sized varieties like grape tomatoes.
Fresh Herbs: Parsley and basil are wonderful, but feel free to mix in other herbs like cilantro or dill based on your taste!
Honey or Agave Syrup: Adds a touch of sweetness. If you’re looking for a sugar-free option, you could skip this or add a bit of apple cider vinegar instead to balance the flavors.
How Do You Ensure Your Salad Stays Crisp?
Keeping your salad crisp relies on a few tips! First, make sure to wash and dry your greens and vegetables thoroughly to avoid excess moisture. Here’s how to keep things fresh:
- When slicing your bell peppers, try not to over-slice them. Thin strips add crunch!
- Mix the salad just before serving to avoid sogginess. Letting it sit for a bit earlier is fine, but don’t dress it too long ahead of time.
- Keep the salad in the fridge covered until you’re ready to eat; the colder it is, the crunchier it stays.
Following these tips will help you enjoy a crisp and refreshing salad all summer long!
Fresh Sweet Pepper Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Vegetables:
- 3 large sweet bell peppers (red, yellow, and orange), thinly sliced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Herbs:
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
Dressing:
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tsp honey or agave syrup (optional, for slight sweetness)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend a few minutes washing, slicing, and mixing everything together. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a summer gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
Start by washing all your vegetables to remove any dirt. Then, slice the bell peppers into thin strips. These colorful peppers will be the star of your salad, so don’t rush this step! Place them into a large salad bowl once done.
2. Add the Onion:
Next, take your red onion and slice it thinly as well. Add the onion to the bowl with the bell peppers – the sweet and sharp flavor of the onion will complement the other ingredients nicely.
3. Toss in the Tomatoes and Herbs:
Now it’s time for the cherry tomatoes! Cut them in half and add them to the mix. Then sprinkle the chopped parsley and basil over the top of the bowl for extra flavor and freshness.
4. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, honey (if you’re using it), salt, and black pepper. Give it a good mix until everything is well combined to create a simple yet delicious dressing.
5. Combine the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the fresh vegetable mix in the salad bowl. Gently toss everything together to ensure all the peppers, onion, tomatoes, and herbs are evenly coated in the dressing.
6. Let It Rest:
Allow the salad to sit for about 10-15 minutes. This gives the flavors a chance to meld together and lets the salad achieve a beautiful taste.
7. Final Touches and Serve:
Before serving, taste your salad and adjust the seasoning if needed—perhaps a little more salt or pepper based on your preference. Serve it fresh on a warm summer day and enjoy the vibrant flavors!
Can I Use Different Types of Peppers?
Absolutely! While red, yellow, and orange sweet bell peppers provide a lovely sweetness and color, you can use any variety you prefer. Just keep in mind that green bell peppers might add a slightly bitter flavor.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the salad ingredients and dressing separately in advance! Just store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Combine them right before serving to keep the salad fresh and crisp.
What Can I Substitute for Honey in the Dressing?
If you wish to avoid honey, you can use maple syrup or agave syrup for sweetness. Alternatively, you can skip the sweetener entirely if you prefer a tangier dressing!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the vegetables may become a bit softer over time, but the flavors will still be delicious!
