Cucumber-Onion-Pepper Salad
A refreshing cucumber, onion, and green pepper salad with olive oil and lemon juice, perfect for a light, cool side dish suitable for warm weather gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut or slice the cucumber, onion, and green pepper into bite-size pieces.
- Add olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to the vegetables.
- Mix well to combine all ingredients.
- Place the bowl covered with Saran Wrap in the freezer for 10 to 15 minutes before serving.
- Serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For a refreshing twist, consider adding diced tomatoes or radishes to the salad. If you're looking for a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can enhance the flavor. Substitute apple cider vinegar for lemon juice for a different tang. Ensure the vegetables are fresh for the best taste. This salad complements Mediterranean recipes beautifully, especially alongside dishes like Tabbouli.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this salad as a light side dish or appetizer, perfect for summer gatherings. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats like Marinated Grouper or Quick Shish Kebob. For a complete meal, add some protein, such as chickpeas or grilled chicken, to make it more filling. Enjoy it alongside a bowl of Eggplant In Hummus for a delightful Mediterranean-inspired feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The salad may lose some crunchiness over time, so it's best enjoyed fresh. To refresh the flavors before serving leftovers, simply toss with a little extra olive oil and lemon juice. Avoid reheating, as this dish is best served cold.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cucumber-Onion-Pepper Salad contains roughly 61 calories, with 1g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (30% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 542mg per serving (24% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until you're ready to serve. This allows the vegetables to maintain their crunchiness and freshness. When ready to serve, mix the dressing in to enhance the flavors right before serving.
What other vegetables can I add?
Feel free to get creative with your vegetable choices! Carrots, bell peppers, or even avocados can add extra flavor and texture. Just ensure that any added vegetables are sliced uniformly for even mixing. This salad's versatility makes it easy to customize based on your preferences or seasonal produce.
Is this salad suitable for a vegan diet?
Absolutely! This Cucumber-Onion-Pepper Salad is vegan-friendly as it contains no animal products. The fresh vegetables combined with olive oil and lemon juice make for a light and healthy dish that fits perfectly within vegan recipes. It's a great option for potlucks or gatherings, ensuring everyone can enjoy it.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).