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This Asian-inspired cucumber bell pepper mix turns everyday veggies into a colorful side with punchy flavors. Crunchy vegetables mixed with spicy chili oil and nutty sesame create a cool yet filling dish that works great alongside grilled protein or by itself for a light meal option.
I came up with this salad during an unbearable summer when cooking anything felt impossible. The mix of colors and bold taste was so good that now I bring it to every gathering, and people always want me to share how I made it.
Ingredients
- Mini cucumbers: These stay crunchy way longer and you don't need to peel their thin skin
- Mini bell peppers: They're way more sugary than big ones with hardly any seeds and better taste
- Chili crisp oil: Gives fiery kick plus tiny crunchy bits that make the texture amazing
- Ginger Sesame Dressing: Adds savory depth and Asian flavor without any extra work
- Everything But The Bagel Seasoning: Throws in some oniony garlicky notes and looks pretty with its scattered specks
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Vegetable Preparation:
- Cut mini cucumbers into slim rounds about 1/8 inch thick making sure they're all the same size so flavors spread evenly. Going thin lets the dressing soak in fast, making every bite taste better.
- Bell Pepper Slicing:
- Take out the stems and seeds from your mini bell peppers and then cut them into skinny rings matching your cucumber thickness. These bright rings look fantastic and help every forkful taste balanced.
- Combining Ingredients:
- Toss your cut veggies in a big bowl that gives you plenty of mixing room. Drizzle chili crisp oil and ginger sesame dressing all over, making sure everything gets coated. Scatter everything bagel seasoning throughout and mix gently until all veggies are covered.
- Chilling and Setting:
- Put a cover on your bowl and stick it in the fridge for at least half an hour so the flavors can blend together while the veggies soak up goodness. It actually tastes even better after sitting awhile, so it's great to make ahead when you're busy.
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The chili crisp oil really makes this dish special. It's got this amazing mix of crunchy garlic, shallots and chilies floating in oil that pop with flavor in each mouthful. I found it while trying new things during lockdown and now I can't stop buying jars for my pantry.
Make It A Meal
This easy side can turn into a full dinner with just a few add-ons. Want more protein? Try mixing in some cottage cheese for a creamy contrast that adds around 24g of protein per cup. You can also throw on some grilled chicken, diced tofu, or a handful of edamame if you want plant protein instead.
Substitution Guide
Can't find mini cucumbers? Go for English ones, just wipe off any waxy stuff and cut them a bit thicker. Regular bell peppers work fine too, just dice them instead of making rings. No chili crisp oil around? Mix 1 tablespoon olive oil with 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes instead. Any Asian dressing can swap in for the ginger sesame kind - just pick something with similar taste notes.
Serving Suggestions
This mix really fits well in an Asian-themed meal next to teriyaki chicken or grilled salmon. When you're having friends over, try serving little portions in lettuce cups or endive leaves for a fancy touch. The bright colors look amazing on a buffet table or family dinner where looking good matters just as much as tasting great.
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This dish nails the sweet spot between fresh taste and quick prep time. You'll find yourself making it all summer!
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I swap mini cucumbers for regular ones?
Of course! Just cut regular cucumbers into thin slices or chunks, and it’ll work just fine.
- → What exactly is chili crisp oil, and where do you grab it?
Chili crisp oil brings heat, crunch, and flavor with chili flakes, oil, and spices. Check local Asian markets or online stores.
- → Could I use a different dressing instead of ginger sesame?
Totally! Swap it with any tangy sesame dressing, or whip up one yourself using soy sauce, sesame oil, and grated ginger.
- → What’s in Everything But The Bagel seasoning?
This tasty mix includes sesame seeds, garlic, onion, sea salt, and poppy seeds. It adds a savory crunch to any meal.
- → How long does it stay good in the fridge?
Keep it in a sealed container, and it’ll stay fresh up to 4 days. The flavors blend even better over time!