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This refreshing Asian-inspired cucumber and bell pepper salad delivers the perfect balance of crunch and flavor. Garden-fresh vegetables are enhanced with an aromatic sesame-ginger dressing, while everything bagel seasoning and chili crisp add depth and gentle heat. The result is a vibrant side dish that elevates any meal with its bright flavors and varied textures.
This recipe emerged from experimenting with fresh summer produce and Asian pantry staples. The combination proved so successful that it quickly became a staple side dish, winning over even reluctant vegetable eaters with its appealing mix of flavors and textures.
Key Ingredients
- Mini cucumbers: Select firm, crisp specimens for optimal texture and mild sweetness
- Bell peppers: Choose brightly colored peppers with smooth, firm flesh
- Everything bagel seasoning: Provides savory depth and textural interest
- Chili crisp: Adds gentle heat and complexity to the dish
- Rice vinegar: Brings necessary acidity and authentic Asian flavor
- Fresh ginger: Contributes aromatic warmth and spice
Preparation Method
- Prepare Vegetables:
- Cut cucumbers into uniform rounds and bell peppers into matchstick-sized strips, maintaining consistent sizes for even flavor distribution.
- Mix Dressing:
- Blend rice vinegar and soy sauce, gradually incorporate sesame oil and honey, then finish with grated ginger and minced garlic.
- Assemble:
- Combine vegetables in serving bowl, toss with dressing, then finish with everything bagel seasoning and chili crisp.
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Serving Suggestions
This versatile salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats, particularly teriyaki chicken or seared salmon. It also makes an excellent addition to grain bowls or serves as a cooling complement to spicier main dishes.
Variations
Customize the salad by incorporating shredded carrots for additional color or diced avocado for richness. Add protein like tofu or shrimp to transform it into a complete meal.
Storage Tips
For optimal freshness, store vegetables and dressing separately in airtight containers. Combine just before serving. Best enjoyed within two days.
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This salad represents the beauty of simple, thoughtful cooking. Fresh ingredients and carefully balanced seasonings come together to create something greater than the sum of its parts - a dish that consistently draws praise and recipe requests.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How long can this salad stay fresh in the fridge?
- It’s best eaten within a day of making it! After 24 hours, the veggies might start getting soggy from the dressing, so store it sealed in the fridge for best results.
- → Can I prep the dressing ahead of time?
- Absolutely! Make the sesame ginger dressing up to 5 days in advance and store it in the fridge in a tightly closed container. Shake it well before using.
- → What can I use instead of chili crisp?
- No chili crisp? No problem. You can swap in red chili flakes, a swirl of sriracha, or any chili oil you enjoy. Add as much or as little as you like, depending on how spicy you want it.
- → Is this recipe gluten-free?
- Yep, it can be! Just swap soy sauce for tamari, and double-check that your Everything But the Bagel seasoning is gluten-free.
- → What main dishes go well with this salad?
- This salad is great with grilled chicken, fish, tofu, or even as part of an Asian-inspired meal. It’s also a crowd-pleaser at BBQs or outdoor potlucks.