This vibrant and refreshing salad is bursting with flavor and color. The crispness of the cucumber, the sweetness of the colorful peppers, and the kick of chili pepper are perfectly balanced with the creamy and tangy feta cheese. Topped with a sesame dressing, this dish brings a delightful mix of textures and tastes. Whether enjoyed as a light meal, a side dish, or paired with your favorite protein, this salad is both nutritious and satisfying. Quick to make and packed with fresh ingredients, it’s a perfect addition to any meal, especially during warm weather or as a refreshing snack.
Preparation Time
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 colorful peppers (e.g., red and yellow)
- 1/2 chili pepper
- 1/2 large cucumber
- 1/2 onion
- 2 cloves of garlic
- A bunch of parsley
- 60g feta cheese
- 1/5 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sesame sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian herbs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
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Prepare the Vegetables:
- Wash and chop the 2 colorful peppers into bite-sized pieces.
- Finely chop 1/2 chili pepper (remove seeds for less heat).
- Peel and chop 1/2 large cucumber into small cubes.
- Finely chop 1/2 onion.
- Mince 2 cloves of garlic.
- Roughly chop a bunch of parsley.
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Combine the Salad:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped peppers, chili pepper, cucumber, onion, garlic, and parsley.
- Crumble 60g of feta cheese over the salad and mix everything together gently.
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Make the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together 1/5 tablespoon balsamic vinegar, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon sesame sauce, 1 teaspoon Italian herbs, 1 tablespoon olive oil, and 1 teaspoon sugar (if using).
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if needed.
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Dress the Salad:
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine, ensuring all the ingredients are well coated with the flavorful dressing.
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Serve:
- Serve the salad immediately for the freshest taste. Enjoy as a light meal or as a side dish.
Serving Suggestions
- With Grilled Chicken or Fish: Pair the salad with grilled chicken or fish for a complete, satisfying meal.
- As a Light Lunch: Serve with a slice of crusty bread or pita for a refreshing, light lunch.
- With Quinoa or Couscous: For a more filling meal, serve this salad alongside quinoa or couscous.
- As a Side Dish: This salad works wonderfully as a side dish for almost any main course, especially grilled or roasted dishes.
Cooking Tips
- Adjust the Chili Pepper: If you prefer a milder salad, remove all the seeds from the chili pepper or use a smaller amount. Alternatively, for more heat, you can add more chili.
- Make Ahead: While best served fresh, this salad can be made ahead of time. Just keep the dressing separate and toss before serving to avoid sogginess.
- Add Protein: To make this salad more substantial, consider adding protein like grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.
- Vegan Option: Omit the feta cheese and add a vegan cheese alternative or a generous portion of toasted seeds or nuts.
Nutritional Benefits
- Peppers: Rich in vitamin C, peppers are excellent for boosting the immune system, improving skin health, and fighting inflammation.
- Cucumber: Low in calories and high in water, cucumbers are great for hydration and digestion.
- Feta Cheese: A good source of protein and calcium, feta cheese promotes strong bones and teeth while supporting muscle function.
- Garlic: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, garlic supports heart health, boosts immunity, and has potential cancer-fighting properties.
- Olive Oil: High in healthy monounsaturated fats, olive oil is beneficial for heart health and reducing inflammation in the body.
- Parsley: Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, parsley supports immune function, promotes healthy bones, and helps with digestion.
Dietary Information
- This salad is vegetarian and gluten-free, making it suitable for those following these dietary preferences.
- It is low in calories, making it ideal for a light meal or side dish.
- The salad contains healthy fats from olive oil, which contribute to heart health.
- High in fiber from the vegetables, this salad aids in digestion and provides lasting energy.
Storage
- Leftover salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, it’s best to store the dressing separately and add it just before serving to keep the vegetables fresh.
- If storing leftovers, the feta may soften and blend with the dressing, making the salad creamier.
Conclusion
This colorful pepper and cucumber salad with feta cheese and sesame dressing is a light, refreshing dish that is quick and easy to make. It’s packed with nutrients, flavors, and textures that will keep you satisfied without feeling heavy. Perfect for any meal, whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a side dish to complement your dinner, this salad is a healthy and delicious choice. With its crisp vegetables, creamy feta, and tangy dressing, this is sure to become a go-to recipe in your collection.
5 Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I use other types of cheese instead of feta? Yes, you can substitute feta with goat cheese, ricotta, or a dairy-free cheese option if you prefer.
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Can I make this salad spicy? Yes, you can add more chili pepper or a splash of hot sauce to the dressing to increase the heat.
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How can I make the dressing creamier? You can add a tablespoon of Greek yogurt or avocado to the dressing to make it creamier.
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Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the salad ahead of time, but keep the dressing separate and add it just before serving to avoid wilting.
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What other vegetables can I add to this salad? You can add ingredients like cherry tomatoes, carrots, or avocado for more variety and color in your salad.