Crunchy Cucumber and Sweet Pepper Salad with Chili Crisp

There’s something undeniably refreshing about biting into a crisp, cool cucumber on a warm day. Now, take that crunch, add a medley of colorful mini sweet peppers, a touch of fiery chili crisp oil, a zingy sesame-ginger dressing, and a generous sprinkle of Everything But the Bagel seasoning, and you’ve got yourself a game-changing salad. This Crunchy Cucumber and Sweet Pepper Salad with Chili Crisp is exactly the kind of recipe that brings vegetables to life and makes you actually crave them.

What I love about this salad is how it checks every box for a weekday staple or a dinner party side dish. It’s quick to throw together—just slice, mix, and chill—and yet the flavor payoff is so much bigger than the sum of its parts. It doesn’t rely on heavy sauces or complex cooking techniques. Instead, it leans into fresh produce, bold condiments, and smart seasoning to do the heavy lifting. And the best part? You don’t need any fancy kitchen tools or hard-to-find ingredients.

I discovered this salad on one of those chaotic, back-to-back-meeting days where cooking was the last thing on my mind. I was rummaging through the fridge, and all I had were some cucumbers, mini bell peppers, and a half-used jar of chili crisp. I threw everything together with a splash of sesame dressing and a shake of seasoning, and the result was so good, I immediately wrote it down. Since then, it’s become a fridge regular. Now I keep the ingredients on hand at all times.

This is a salad that can play many roles. Serve it as a snack, a starter, a side dish, or even a topping for cottage cheese or grilled chicken. It’s as versatile as it is delicious—and once you try it, I guarantee it’ll become a favorite in your home too.

Why You’ll Love This Cucumber pepper salad Recipe

This Cucumber pepper salad is a love letter to all things crunchy, zesty, and bold. It’s the kind of dish that wakes up your taste buds and brings a bright spot to any meal. But beyond the flavor, there are so many reasons this recipe is worth making again and again.

First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to make. We’re talking under 15 minutes of actual prep. There’s no stove, oven, or blender involved—just a knife, a bowl, and a spoon. That means you can whip it up on a busy weeknight, as part of your meal prep, or even during a short break while working from home.

Second, the ingredients are all easy to find, and most are probably already in your fridge or pantry. Mini Persian cucumbers and sweet mini bell peppers are common in most grocery stores these days, and chili crisp has become a pantry staple for anyone who loves adding a little kick to their food. The Everything But the Bagel seasoning ties everything together with its savory blend of garlic, onion, sesame, and salt, adding a satisfying crunch and flavor to each bite.

Third, it’s completely customizable. Want it spicier? Add extra chili crisp. Prefer it a little more tangy? Add a splash of rice vinegar. Craving some protein? Toss it over cottage cheese or top it with shredded chicken. This salad is the perfect canvas for your cravings.

Last but not least, this salad is genuinely delicious. The cucumbers are crisp and hydrating, the sweet peppers are juicy and mild, and the chili crisp and sesame dressing add depth, heat, and umami. It’s a balance of flavors that just works.

Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned home chef, this salad is a winner. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s become a staple in my kitchen.

Health Benefits of this Cucumber pepper salad

In addition to being delicious and easy to make, this Crunchy Cucumber and Sweet Pepper Salad is full of nutritional benefits that support a healthy lifestyle. While it may seem like a simple side dish, each ingredient brings something valuable to the table.

Cucumbers are more than just a hydrating veggie. They’re rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties. Since they’re made up of about 95% water, they help keep you hydrated while also being low in calories. They also provide a small but meaningful amount of vitamin K, which is essential for healthy bones and proper blood clotting.

Mini sweet bell peppers are nutrient powerhouses. Despite their small size, they pack a serious punch of vitamin C—often more than oranges! They’re also high in vitamin A, which supports eye health and immunity. Their natural sweetness makes them a kid-friendly choice, and they’re great for digestion thanks to their fiber content.

Chili crisp oil, while used sparingly, offers a dose of healthy fats and a big boost in flavor. When used in moderation, spicy foods can also help rev up metabolism and may reduce inflammation due to the capsaicin found in chili peppers.

Ginger sesame dressing often contains sesame oil, which is rich in heart-healthy fats and antioxidants like sesamol and sesamin. Ginger, another key component, is known for its digestive benefits and anti-inflammatory properties.

The addition of Everything But the Bagel seasoning brings a flavorful blend of garlic, onion, sesame seeds, and salt—all of which contribute trace minerals and nutrients. The sesame seeds in particular add healthy fats and plant-based protein.

Best of all, this salad is naturally gluten-free, low-carb, and vegetarian. It can also easily be made vegan by checking the ingredients in the dressing. It’s light on calories but big on satisfaction, making it perfect for those trying to eat cleaner without sacrificing flavor.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

One of the best things about this salad is how quick and convenient it is to make. You can go from start to finish in less than half an hour, and most of that time is simply letting the salad chill so the flavors meld.

Preparation Time:

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Chill Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes

Servings:
This recipe serves about 2 to 3 people as a side dish or 1 person if enjoyed as a light meal or snack.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, approx.):

  • Calories: 120
  • Protein: 2g
  • Carbohydrates: 8g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 3g
  • Fat: 9g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Sodium: 300mg

These values will vary slightly depending on the exact brands and quantities used, especially the type of chili crisp oil and sesame dressing. For a lighter option, you can reduce the amount of oil or use a low-fat dressing. On the flip side, if you’re looking to boost the protein, try serving the salad over a scoop of low-fat cottage cheese or a piece of grilled chicken.

Because this dish is so light, it’s a great option to pair with more filling mains or to include as part of a healthy snacking routine. It won’t weigh you down, but it’ll definitely keep you satisfied.

Ingredients List of this Cucumber pepper salad

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this crisp and colorful salad. Each ingredient plays an important role, so let’s take a closer look at what makes them essential.

  • 3–4 mini Persian cucumbers, sliced
    These small cucumbers are ideal because they’re extra crunchy and have thin skins, meaning you don’t need to peel them. Their mild flavor pairs beautifully with bold dressings.
  • 6–7 mini sweet bell peppers (red, orange, yellow), sliced
    These mini peppers add a pop of color and sweetness that balances the heat from the chili oil. Their crunch also complements the cucumbers perfectly.
  • 2 tablespoons chili crisp oil (Fly By Jing recommended)
    This is where the magic happens. Chili crisp brings heat, flavor, and a little texture thanks to the crispy bits of garlic and chili. You can adjust the amount depending on your spice preference.
  • ¼ cup ginger sesame dressing (Bragg’s or similar)
    The ginger gives a fresh zing while the sesame adds depth and nuttiness. This dressing ties the veggies and chili crisp together into one harmonious bite.
  • 2½ teaspoons Everything But The Bagel seasoning (or more to taste)
    This all-purpose seasoning adds a savory crunch and elevates the entire dish. Feel free to go heavy-handed here if you love bold seasoning.

Optional Add-ins:

  • Sliced scallions or chives for extra freshness
  • Chopped peanuts or toasted sesame seeds for added texture
  • A drizzle of rice vinegar for more tang
  • Cottage cheese or grilled protein to make it more filling

Make sure to slice your veggies evenly so every bite has the perfect ratio of crunch and flavor. And while store-bought versions of the condiments work great, you can absolutely use homemade chili oil or dressing if you have them on hand.

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions of this Cucumber pepper salad

Creating this Crunchy Cucumber and Sweet Pepper Salad with Chili Crisp is all about layering textures and flavors. It’s incredibly simple, but the key to getting it just right lies in how you prep and combine the ingredients. Follow these detailed steps for the perfect salad every time.

Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace

Before you even start chopping, take a moment to clear your counter and gather everything you’ll need. This includes your vegetables, dressing, chili crisp oil, seasoning, a sharp knife, a cutting board, and a large mixing bowl. Having everything ready to go makes the process smoother and faster.

Step 2: Wash the Vegetables Thoroughly

Always begin by washing your produce. Rinse the mini cucumbers and sweet bell peppers under cold running water, scrubbing gently to remove any dirt or residue. Pat them dry with a clean towel or paper towel to ensure they’re dry before slicing. This helps the dressing stick better and prevents a watery salad.

Step 3: Slice the Cucumbers

Using a sharp knife, slice the mini Persian cucumbers into thin rounds. You can slice them on a slight diagonal for a more elegant look, or keep it simple with straight rounds. Aim for slices that are about ¼ inch thick. If you prefer extra crunch, go a bit thicker. For more delicate bites, slice them thinner.

Keep in mind that Persian cucumbers have minimal seeds and a thin skin, so they’re perfect raw. If you’re using a different variety, like English cucumbers, you may want to scrape out some seeds or peel part of the skin, depending on your texture preference.

Step 4: Slice the Mini Sweet Bell Peppers

Cut off the tops of each pepper and remove the seeds. Then slice the peppers into thin rings or strips, whichever you prefer. Using a mix of red, orange, and yellow peppers adds not only flavor variety but also beautiful visual appeal. The natural sweetness of these peppers helps balance the heat from the chili crisp later on.

If you only have regular bell peppers, you can still use them. Just slice them into thin strips and adjust the amount to your taste. The mini versions tend to be sweeter and more tender, but both work well in this recipe.

Step 5: Combine the Vegetables in a Bowl

Place the sliced cucumbers and bell peppers into a large mixing bowl. Toss them gently with your hands or a pair of salad tongs to mix them evenly. This ensures that when you add the other ingredients, they’ll distribute consistently throughout the salad.

Step 6: Add the Chili Crisp Oil

Now comes the flavor bomb: chili crisp oil. Add 2 tablespoons directly to the bowl of sliced vegetables. If you’re sensitive to spice, start with 1 tablespoon and add more to taste. On the flip side, if you love heat, you can increase it to 3 tablespoons or more.

Make sure to scoop from the bottom of the jar to get both the oil and the crispy bits of garlic and chili. These crunchy little flecks add texture and depth, so don’t skip them. Gently toss the veggies again to coat them in the chili oil.

Step 7: Pour in the Ginger Sesame Dressing

Next, add ¼ cup of your chosen ginger sesame dressing. The Bragg’s brand is a great option because it’s light, flavorful, and slightly tangy. Pour it evenly over the veggies, then toss again. You’ll notice the salad starting to glisten and the dressing clinging to each piece of cucumber and pepper.

If your dressing is thicker, you can thin it with a teaspoon of warm water to help it mix better. The goal here is to coat, not drench. The balance between the chili crisp and sesame dressing creates a sweet, spicy, nutty combo that’s completely irresistible.

Step 8: Sprinkle with Everything But The Bagel Seasoning

Add 2½ teaspoons of Everything But The Bagel seasoning over the salad. This seasoning adds a savory, garlicky, oniony flavor with an extra pop from the sesame seeds and sea salt. It also adds texture that plays really well against the soft veggies and slick dressing.

Feel free to taste and adjust the seasoning to your liking. Some people love a generous sprinkle, while others prefer a lighter touch. Add a little, taste, then add more if needed.

Step 9: Toss Gently to Combine

Using a large spoon or clean hands, give the salad one final toss to make sure everything is well combined. Take your time here to ensure that each piece is evenly coated in the chili crisp and dressing and that the seasoning is distributed throughout.

You want every bite to have that perfect mix of spicy, savory, sweet, and tangy with lots of crunch. If it looks too dry, you can add a little more dressing or chili oil, depending on your flavor preferences.

Step 10: Chill the Salad

Transfer the salad to the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. This resting time helps the flavors meld together and gives the cucumbers a chance to absorb some of the dressing and spice.

If you’re short on time, you can eat it right away, but the chilled version is really where this dish shines. The cold crunch, combined with the bold flavor, makes it incredibly refreshing and satisfying.

Step 11: Serve and Enjoy

Once chilled, serve the salad straight from the bowl or plate it individually for a more composed presentation. You can garnish it with additional Everything But The Bagel seasoning, chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions, or even a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for added texture.

For extra protein, serve it on top of a scoop of cottage cheese, over a bed of quinoa, or alongside a grilled chicken breast. It also works beautifully as a topping for grain bowls or inside lettuce wraps for a fun twist.

That’s it—you’re done! A super simple, incredibly flavorful, and versatile salad that’s ready in less than an hour and works for just about any occasion.

Cucumber pepper salad

How to Serve this Cucumber pepper salad

This salad is incredibly versatile, which means there are countless ways to serve it depending on what you’re craving or what’s already in your fridge. Whether you’re going light, going hearty, or somewhere in between, this dish has your back.

For a simple presentation, you can serve it chilled in a large salad bowl as a colorful side dish. It adds freshness and crunch to any spread, especially during warmer months. The vibrant colors and bold flavors make it a standout on a summer picnic table or as part of a weeknight dinner.

If you’re looking for something more substantial, try these serving ideas:

  • Over cottage cheese: This is one of my favorite ways to turn this salad into a high-protein snack or light meal. Scoop a generous portion of low-fat cottage cheese into a bowl and top with a few spoonfuls of the salad. The creamy texture balances the crunch and heat beautifully.
  • With grilled chicken or shrimp: Serve the salad on the side or spoon it right on top of your protein for an instant flavor upgrade.
  • In lettuce wraps: Scoop the salad into romaine leaves or butter lettuce cups for a handheld snack or appetizer.
  • As a topping for rice or quinoa bowls: Add a scoop to your favorite grain bowl to brighten things up.
  • Inside a wrap or pita: Use it as a flavorful, crunchy filling alongside hummus or grilled tofu.

No matter how you serve it, this salad brings bold flavor and texture to the table—and it pairs well with just about everything.

Pairing Suggestions

Pairing your salad with the right accompaniments can take it from a tasty side to a standout meal. Because this Crunchy Cucumber and Sweet Pepper Salad is fresh, spicy, and slightly sweet, you’ll want to serve it with dishes and drinks that complement its bold flavor profile without overpowering it.

Main Dishes That Work Beautifully

  • Grilled Chicken or Turkey: The simplicity of grilled meats allows the salad’s bold flavors to shine. A lightly marinated chicken breast or turkey cutlet works especially well—try lemon, garlic, or soy-ginger marinades to keep the flavor profiles cohesive.
  • Baked or Pan-Seared Salmon: The richness of salmon pairs well with the brightness of the chili crisp and the zingy dressing. A sesame-crusted or honey-glazed salmon would be particularly good alongside this salad.
  • Stir-Fried Tofu or Tempeh: For a plant-based meal, serve this salad next to crispy tofu or tempeh. Stir-fry with a soy-ginger glaze or spicy garlic sauce to keep the flavors aligned.
  • Asian-Inspired Rice Bowls: Build a hearty rice bowl using jasmine or brown rice as the base, then layer on grilled proteins, avocado, shredded carrots, and a scoop of this salad for contrast. The crunch brings balance to the softness of rice and sauces.
  • Grain-Based Salads: Quinoa, couscous, or bulgur wheat salads make excellent partners. Add a scoop of this cucumber-pepper salad on top for added texture and flavor.

Drinks to Complement the Heat

  • Sparkling Water with Citrus: A chilled sparkling water with lemon or lime cuts through the heat and refreshes your palate between bites.
  • Iced Green Tea or Jasmine Tea: Light, floral teas pair beautifully with the salad’s spicy notes and sesame undertones.
  • Fresh Mint Lemonade: If you want something a little more vibrant, a homemade mint lemonade adds both sweetness and cooling relief from the chili crisp.
  • Coconut Water: For a tropical touch, coconut water’s subtle sweetness and electrolytes balance the heat nicely.

By choosing simple, clean flavors and hydrating, refreshing drinks, you allow the salad to take center stage while still creating a balanced and satisfying meal.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

Even though this salad is best served fresh and crisp, you can definitely make it ahead and store leftovers if needed. That said, the texture and flavor will change slightly over time, so it’s helpful to know the best ways to store and serve it later.

How to Store

If you have leftovers or you want to prep the salad ahead of time, follow these tips:

  • Refrigerate in an airtight container: Store the salad in a tightly sealed container to maintain freshness. It should keep well in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, though it’s best enjoyed within 24 hours for optimal crunch.
  • Store dressing and chili crisp separately (if prepping ahead): If you want to keep the vegetables crisp for longer, slice the cucumbers and peppers ahead of time, but store them without dressing or chili oil. Combine everything about 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
  • Avoid storing in metal containers: Use glass or BPA-free plastic containers to avoid any flavor transfer or metallic taste, especially with acidic dressings.

Can You Freeze It?

Freezing this salad is not recommended. Cucumbers and sweet peppers have high water content, and freezing them will change their texture dramatically. Once thawed, they become mushy and lose their crunch, which is one of the main appeals of this dish.

Reheating Instructions

This salad is designed to be enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so no reheating is needed. In fact, it tastes best chilled after sitting for about 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to fully develop.

If you’re using it as a topping on cottage cheese or grain bowls and want to warm the base (like rice or quinoa), do that separately, and then spoon the cold salad on top. The contrast in temperature can actually be quite delightful.

By following these storage tips, you’ll keep your salad fresh, crunchy, and flavorful for as long as possible.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though this salad is wonderfully simple, there are a few common missteps that can affect the final result. Here are some key pitfalls to watch out for—and how to avoid them.

1. Not Drying the Vegetables Properly

After rinsing your cucumbers and peppers, make sure to dry them thoroughly. Excess water can water down the dressing and chili oil, making the salad less flavorful and a bit soggy. Pat the veggies dry with paper towels before slicing to ensure everything sticks properly.

2. Using Too Much Chili Crisp Too Soon

Chili crisp is bold, spicy, and flavorful—but it can easily overpower the dish if added in large amounts without tasting first. Start with 2 tablespoons, toss the salad, and adjust to taste. Some chili crisp brands are spicier than others, so it’s best to err on the side of caution.

3. Not Chilling Before Serving

This salad really benefits from a short rest in the fridge. Chilling it for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld and the cucumbers to absorb the dressing slightly. Serving it immediately is fine, but the flavor won’t be quite as balanced or refreshing.

4. Overdressing the Salad

While it’s tempting to add extra dressing, it can overwhelm the vegetables and cause them to soften too quickly. Stick to the recommended amounts, and only add more if needed after tasting. A little goes a long way with bold dressings and chili oils.

5. Letting It Sit Too Long After Mixing

While chilling the salad is helpful, letting it sit for more than 24 hours can cause the cucumbers to lose their crunch and the peppers to become soggy. For the best texture and flavor, eat it the same day you make it or at most the next day.

Avoiding these simple mistakes ensures that every bowl of this salad comes out just right: bold, crisp, and perfectly seasoned.

Pro Tips

If you’re looking to elevate this already-delicious salad and make it even more versatile, these pro tips will help you master the dish and make it your own.

1. Slice the Vegetables Evenly

Uniform slicing isn’t just about aesthetics—it ensures even distribution of flavors. When your cucumbers and peppers are cut to a similar thickness, the dressing and chili oil coat everything evenly, and every bite delivers the perfect balance of flavor and texture.

2. Add Crunch with Toasted Toppings

For extra texture, try adding toasted sesame seeds, sunflower seeds, or crushed peanuts. These toppings add nuttiness and a deeper flavor that pairs beautifully with the sesame-ginger dressing. Toast your seeds in a dry skillet for 2–3 minutes over medium heat until fragrant, then sprinkle over the salad just before serving.

3. Brighten the Flavor with Citrus

For added brightness, squeeze fresh lime or lemon juice over the salad before chilling. This little touch lifts the entire dish and makes the spice pop even more. A small splash of rice vinegar also works well if you don’t have fresh citrus.

4. Double the Batch for Meal Prep

This salad is so quick and easy, it’s ideal for meal prep. Just double the batch and store the vegetables and dressing separately. Combine them 30 minutes before eating for a fresh, make-ahead lunch or snack that feels new every time.

5. Customize to Fit Your Diet

Make it vegan by checking the dressing ingredients and choosing one that’s plant-based. Need it low-sodium? Use a low-salt seasoning blend or make your own Everything But The Bagel mix. Want to make it a full meal? Just add protein like grilled chicken, tofu, or chickpeas.

These small but impactful tweaks can help you get the most out of your salad and keep it interesting every time you make it.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Every great recipe inspires a few questions, especially when it’s something new and packed with bold flavors. Here are the most common questions people ask about this Crunchy Cucumber and Sweet Pepper Salad with Chili Crisp—along with clear, helpful answers to make your salad a success every time.

Can I use regular cucumbers instead of Persian cucumbers?

Yes, you can absolutely use regular cucumbers or English cucumbers if that’s what you have on hand. Just keep in mind that Persian cucumbers are naturally crispier and have fewer seeds. If using larger cucumbers, you may want to scoop out the seeds and peel part of the skin to achieve a similar texture.

What is chili crisp, and is it very spicy?

Chili crisp is a flavorful oil infused with crispy bits of garlic, onion, and chili flakes. It’s more than just spicy—it adds umami, crunch, and a rich depth of flavor. The heat level varies depending on the brand, but most versions are milder than a hot sauce. You can always start with a smaller amount and add more to taste.

I’m sensitive to spice. Can I leave out the chili crisp?

Yes, if you prefer a milder version, you can leave out the chili crisp or replace it with a mild chili oil or even sesame oil. You’ll lose some of the heat and crunch, but the salad will still be flavorful thanks to the dressing and Everything But The Bagel seasoning.

Can I make this salad in advance?

Yes, this salad can be made in advance. For the best results, slice the cucumbers and peppers and store them separately from the dressing and chili oil. When you’re ready to serve, combine everything and chill for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld without the veggies becoming too soft.

How long does this salad last in the fridge?

This salad is best enjoyed within 24 hours, but it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. After that, the cucumbers and peppers may start to lose their crunch.

Can I add protein to make it a complete meal?

Definitely! This salad pairs well with a variety of proteins. Cottage cheese is a fantastic high-protein base, but grilled chicken, tofu, shrimp, or even hard-boiled eggs make great additions. Just layer your chosen protein under or beside the salad for a balanced, satisfying meal.

Is this recipe vegan and gluten-free?

Yes, it can be! The base recipe is vegetarian and gluten-free, and it can be made vegan as long as your ginger sesame dressing doesn’t contain honey or animal products. Always double-check the labels if you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions.

Can I use a different type of dressing?

Absolutely. While a ginger sesame dressing complements the chili crisp perfectly, you can try other Asian-inspired dressings like miso, soy-lime, or even a simple rice vinegar and olive oil combo with grated ginger. Just aim for a dressing with a little acidity to balance the spice and sweetness of the peppers.

What’s the best way to serve this Cucumber pepper salad for guests?

If you’re entertaining, serve the salad in a shallow platter rather than a deep bowl. This allows the colorful ingredients to show off and makes it easier for guests to scoop without digging. Garnish with extra seasoning or fresh herbs like cilantro or scallions for a polished look.

Can I pack this Cucumber pepper salad for lunch?

Yes, it makes a great lunch! If packing it ahead, keep the dressing and chili crisp in a small container and toss them with the veggies just before eating to keep everything crisp. Store in an insulated lunchbox with an ice pack to keep it fresh until mealtime.

Conclusion & Call to Action

There’s a certain magic in recipes that are both incredibly simple and unbelievably flavorful. This Crunchy Cucumber and Sweet Pepper Salad with Chili Crisp is one of those rare gems. It’s the kind of dish that fits into your life with ease—whether you’re short on time, feeding a crowd, or just craving something refreshing and bold.

We’ve walked through every step of making this salad, from selecting the right ingredients to slicing them just right, combining flavors, storing leftovers, and even avoiding common pitfalls. You now have all the tools and tips to recreate this at home like a pro. And honestly? Once you do, you’re going to want to make it again and again.

The balance of spicy, sweet, salty, and tangy flavors makes this salad feel exciting, yet it’s rooted in everyday ingredients. No hard-to-find specialty items or hours spent in the kitchen—just real food, real flavor, and real satisfaction.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab those cucumbers, slice up those peppers, and crack open that jar of chili crisp. This salad is calling your name, and your taste buds will thank you. Whether you’re serving it as a vibrant side, a refreshing snack, or a flavorful base for a protein-packed meal, this dish will find a place in your weekly rotation in no time.

When you give this recipe a try, I’d love to hear how it turns out. Feel free to leave a comment with your thoughts, any customizations you made, or questions you still have. And if you share it on social media, don’t forget to tag me—I always love seeing your kitchen creations.

Here’s to bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and effortless cooking. Happy chopping!

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Cucumber pepper salad

Crunchy Cucumber and Sweet Pepper Salad with Chili Crisp


  • Author: Clara Whisk
  • Total Time: 40 minutes (includes chill time)
  • Yield: 23 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This crisp, vibrant salad is packed with Persian cucumbers, sweet bell peppers, chili crisp oil, and a bold sesame-ginger dressing. It’s spicy, savory, and refreshingly easy to prepare.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 34 mini Persian cucumbers, sliced

  • 67 mini sweet bell peppers (red, orange, yellow), sliced

  • 2 tablespoons chili crisp oil (Fly By Jing or similar)

  • ¼ cup ginger sesame dressing

  • 2½ teaspoons Everything But The Bagel seasoning (or more to taste)


Instructions

  • Wash and thinly slice cucumbers and mini peppers.

  • Combine sliced vegetables in a large mixing bowl.

  • Add chili crisp oil, sesame dressing, and seasoning.

  • Toss until well coated.

  • Chill for 30 minutes before serving.

  • Serve cold as a snack, side, or topping.

Notes

  • Adjust chili crisp oil to taste depending on spice tolerance.

  • Add a splash of lime juice or rice vinegar for extra zing.

  • Top with cottage cheese or grilled chicken for a full meal.

  • Best eaten within 24 hours for optimal crunch.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Salad / Snack
  • Method: No-cook / Tossed
  • Cuisine: Asian-Inspired

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