Our team of dietitians love dishes that are light, refreshing, and easy to prepare. Our Pepper Cucumber Salad is just that. It’s a vibrant addition to any meal, bursting with Mediterranean flavors. This recipe is a testament to simplicity and freshness, pairing perfectly with grilled dishes or standing proud on its own.
Ingredients at a Glance
- Bell peppers in red, yellow, and orange offer a colorful base.
- Crisp cucumber adds a refreshing crunch.
- Kalamata olives introduce a briny depth.
- Olive oil and Greek seasoning dress it up.
- Parmesan and feta cheese provide a creamy finish.
Step-by-Step Guide
- Start with slicing peppers and cucumber. This base promises a crunchy, colorful salad.
- Add halved Kalamata olives for a touch of Mediterranean flair.
- Dress with olive oil and Greek seasoning. A simple yet flavorful choice.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan and feta cheese. They add a creamy, tangy contrast.
- Chill before serving. This enhances the salad’s flavors.
Serving Suggestions
This Pepper Cucumber Salad is versatile. Serve it alongside grilled meats for a complete meal. It’s also perfect as a standalone dish for a light lunch. The combination of crunchy vegetables, salty olives, and tangy cheese, all brought together with a hint of Greek seasoning, makes for a memorable dish.
Why You’ll Love It
- It’s quick to prepare. You can have it ready in under 30 minutes.
- The salad is jam-packed with fibre and antioxidants.
- It’s visually appealing. The bright colors of the peppers and cucumber make it a feast for the eyes.
- It is great for meal prep as it will keep fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Customize Your Pepper Cucumber Salad: Additions & Variations
Elevate your Pepper Cucumber Salad by incorporating grains, proteins, and a variety of other ingredients for added texture, flavor, and nutrition. This versatility allows you to tailor the salad to your preferences or dietary needs, making it a perfect dish for any occasion.
Grains and Pasta for a Hearty Touch
- Quinoa: Adding cooked quinoa transforms the salad into a protein-rich, fulfilling meal.
- Pasta: Toss in some cooked pasta, such as fusilli or penne, for a Mediterranean-inspired pasta salad.
Protein Boosts for a Complete Meal
- Chicken: Grilled or baked chicken, diced or shredded, adds a lean protein source.
- Tofu: Marinated and pan-seared tofu cubes offer a plant-based protein option.
- Chickpeas: Rinse and drain canned chickpeas for a quick, fiber-rich addition.
Fresh and Flavorful Extras
- Celery and Onions: Thinly sliced celery and red onions introduce a crisp, pungent flavor.
- Fresh Herbs: Chopped parsley, basil, or mint can freshen up the salad with vibrant flavors.
- Tomatoes: Sun-dried tomatoes add a chewy texture and intense flavor, while fresh tomatoes offer juiciness.
Switch It Up with These Items
- Avocado: Creamy avocado slices contribute healthy fats and a smooth texture.
- Nuts and Seeds: Toasted pine nuts, almonds, or pumpkin seeds add crunch and nuttiness.
- Cheese Variations: Swap feta with goat cheese or shaved Parmesan for a different cheesy profile.
Description
This enhanced Greek Salad, with its mix of crunchy vegetables, salty olives, and creamy cheeses, dressed in a simple yet flavorful olive oil and Greek seasoning, is sure to be a hit. It’s perfect as a standalone meal for a light lunch or as a vibrant side dish that pairs well with grilled meats or seafood.
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 yellow bell pepper
- 1 orange bell pepper
- 1 cucumber
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Greek seasoning
- 1 tablespoon Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Rinse the bell peppers and cucumber under cold water.
- Remove the cores and seeds from the bell peppers, then slice them into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.
- Peel the cucumber (optional) and cut it into thin rounds or half-moons.
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine the sliced peppers, cucumber, and Kalamata olives.
- Drizzle the olive oil over the vegetables and olives, then sprinkle the Greek seasoning on top.
- Toss everything together until well coated in the oil and seasoning. The addition of Kalamata olives will bring a lovely briny flavor that complements the fresh crunch of the vegetables beautifully.
- Add the Cheeses:
- Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the salad. Parmesan will add a slightly nutty, savory layer to the salad.
- Add the crumbled feta cheese, distributing it evenly throughout the salad. Feta is a staple in Greek salads, known for its creamy texture and tangy taste.
- Chill and Serve:
- Let the salad chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the flavors to meld together and intensify.
- Before serving, toss the salad gently to ensure the dressing and seasonings are evenly distributed.
- Serve:
- Serve the salad in a large dish or portion into individual servings. Consider garnishing with a sprinkle of additional Greek seasoning or a few extra feta crumbles for presentation.
Notes
Optional: Switch it up by adding onions, celery or cherry tomatoes
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