Save Pin
Whenever I'm short on time but still want something bright and cheerful, this Sweet Pepper Cucumber bowl comes to the rescue. Crunchy cukes and sweet bell peppers in every color make this dish feel like sunshine, whether I'm putting together a quick meal or just trying to eat something light. I always grab this combo for spontaneous outdoor lunches or to balance out rich grilled food.
Every single time I set this out at a party, it vanishes fast—even the choosy eaters gobble up extra. The combo of lemon and dill brings a little magic to every forkful.
Vibrant Ingredients
- Olive oil: Go for extra virgin if you can—it’ll give depth to the dressing
- Apple cider vinegar: Adds a gentle bite that’s perfect with the peppers, raw unfiltered is awesome
- Lemon juice: Squeeze your own so the salad pops with extra brightness
- Honey: Keeps sweetness balanced through every bite, use the good stuff if you have it
- Salt and pepper: Sprinkle and taste, making sure every veggie shines
- Fresh dill: Chop up the leafy fronds, skip the hard stems for best flavor
- Red onion: Slice very thin so it’s crisp but not overwhelming—firm onions work best
- Red yellow and orange bell peppers: Cut these into strips for that sweet burst and color, shiny skins mean they’re extra fresh
- Large cucumbers: Get them sliced thin for true crunch, pick the firmest ones
Easy How-To
- Dish Up and Enjoy:
- Scoop into bowls and serve cold with bread or next to main courses
- Let it Chill:
- Pop the salad in the fridge covered so flavors mingle—give it about fifteen minutes
- Add Seasoning:
- Add salt and pepper a bit at a time, tossing and tasting so nothing gets too salty
- Mix it All Up:
- Pour your dressing over the veggies, toss with the dill and either your hands or tongs until everything looks coated and mixed well
- Blend Your Dressing:
- Whisk oil, vinegar, lemon juice, and honey until everything is one smooth mixture—no honey blobs left behind
- Prep the Veggies:
- Work on slicing cucumbers, peppers, and onions really thin, toss into a big salad bowl together so they stay crisp
Save Pin
Good Stuff to Know
- Loaded with fiber and plenty of vitamins from all those veggies
- Tasty and low-calorie but fills you up nicely
- Holds up in the fridge for several hours, so great for prepping ahead
I always use extra dill because it transports me straight back to family summers in the garden. My kids sneak forkfuls before I even call them to the table—which always puts a big smile on my face.
Smart Storage Ideas
Keep this covered and chilled and eat it within a day for best crunch. If you want to prep early, slice all the veggies and stash them dry—just add the dressing and herbs right before you dig in for max freshness.
Swap Options
No dill? Use parsley or tarragon for a new twist. Out of apple cider vinegar? White wine vinegar is a good swap. Want a different sweetness? Try maple syrup instead of honey. Toss in some feta for a salty hint or use toasted almonds for extra crunch.
Save Pin
How to Eat It
Put a scoop next to grilled chicken, steak, or seafood to really make the meal pop. This one’s awesome for potlucks or pack it in your lunch box. Tuck it into pita with hummus for a filling bite, and a handful of cherry tomatoes takes it up a notch.
Tradition and Story
Cucumber mix-ups like this show up in many food traditions and here the simplest fresh ingredients get a spotlight. The dill and vinegar are a nod to old-school Eastern European eats, while bright peppers give things a Mediterranean feel. My go-to version is inspired by those easy backyard dinners growing up with sunlight all around.
Common Questions
- → Is it okay to prep this ahead?
Totally! Make it a few hours early and stash it in the fridge. The veggies stay snappy and the flavors get along even better.
- → What other green herbs can I use if I don’t have dill?
Go for mint, parsley, or basil. They’ll each bring their own twist and keep things tasting fresh.
- → How do I crank up the crunch?
Toss in some sunflower seeds, almonds, or pumpkin seeds. Chopped nuts work too for a boost in bite and nutrients.
- → Can you have this as your whole lunch?
For sure—this can totally stand alone. Add some feta or chickpeas if you’re extra hungry or want more bulk.
- → How can I make it fit different diets?
Just leave out the honey for vegan eats, or add more olive oil if you’re craving it richer. Super easy to swap things in and out.