Pickled Cucumber, Onion, and Bell Pepper Salad

Are you ready to add a pop of color and crunch to your meals? Say hello to Pickled Cucumber, Onion, and Bell Pepper Salad! This vibrant dish is not only refreshing but also incredibly easy to whip up, making it a perfect addition to any summer feast or casual weeknight dinner. Each crisp bite delivers a tangy zing that elevates your taste buds and is sure to impress family and friends alike. Fun fact: this salad is a staple in many Southern kitchens, where pickling vegetables has been a beloved tradition passed down through generations. The best part? It takes just minutes to prepare and is utterly family-friendly, allowing everyone to enjoy the wonderful flavors without any fuss. If you love this recipe, be sure to check out our delightful Creamy Coleslaw for another refreshing side dish. Grab your apron and get ready to experience this zesty salad that’s sure to become a favorite on your dining table!

What is Pickled Cucumber, Onion, and Bell Pepper Salad?

Now, let’s talk about this quirky name. Pickled Cucumber, Onion, and Bell Pepper Salad—doesn’t it just roll off the tongue beautifully? Did you know that the concept of pickling dates back thousands of years? But I bet you didn’t think cucumbers would get their own party with onions and bell peppers! You see, this salad takes those humble ingredients and transforms them into a delightful dish that’s bursting with flavor. It’s like the potluck of salads, bringing together a few favorites and creating a delicious medley that requires no cooking whatsoever! As the saying goes, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and I guarantee this tangy delight will win them over. So why not give this simple and scrumptious salad a try and see for yourself?

Why You’ll Love This Pickled Cucumber, Onion, and Bell Pepper Salad

One of the best things about Pickled Cucumber, Onion, and Bell Pepper Salad is its freshness. The crisp cucumbers and crunchy bell peppers are a vibrant contrast to the sharpness of the onions, creating a medley that makes every bite a burst of flavor. Additionally, making this salad at home is not only a cost-saving choice but also a great way to use up those surplus summer veggies. You might be tempted to compare it to a classic potato salad, but this one stands out with its bright, tangy dressing that screams summer! With white vinegar, sugar, and a few spices, the flavor profile is simple yet satisfying. So, gather your family and give this zesty salad a whirl—you won’t regret it!

How to Make Pickled Cucumber, Onion, and Bell Pepper Salad

Quick Overview

Creating this delicious Pickled Cucumber, Onion, and Bell Pepper Salad is as easy as it gets! In just a few simple steps and about 15 minutes of your time, you can have this colorful dish ready to serve. Its simplicity and delightful crunch are perfect for any meal, whether you’re serving it at a barbecue or as a side during dinner. Plus, it’s a refreshing change from heavier side dishes!

Key Ingredients for Pickled Cucumber, Onion, and Bell Pepper Salad

To make this zesty salad, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 medium cucumbers (sliced thin)
• 1 medium red onion (sliced thin)
• 1 bell pepper (any color, sliced thin)
• 1 cup white vinegar
• 1 cup water
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dill (optional, for added flavor)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep Your Vegetables: Start by rinsing the cucumbers, onion, and bell pepper. Slice them thinly and set them aside in a mixing bowl.
2. Make the Pickling Solution: In a separate bowl, combine the white vinegar, water, sugar, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and dill (if using). Whisk everything together until the sugar and salt dissolve completely.
3. Combine Everything: Pour the pickling solution over the sliced vegetables. Toss them gently to ensure each piece is coated with the liquid.
4. Marinate Time: Allow the salad to marinate for at least 10 minutes, though letting it sit in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight will enhance the flavors even more!
5. Serve and Enjoy: After marinating, give everything a good stir, and serve this colorful salad cold or at room temperature. Enjoy it as a side with grilled meats, sandwiches, or even as a topping for tacos!

What to Serve Pickled Cucumber, Onion, and Bell Pepper Salad With

This salad pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes! Serve it alongside juicy grilled chicken, fish tacos, or even as a refreshing companion to a hearty sandwich. The bright, tangy flavors make it an ideal side for potlucks or summer barbecues, especially when enjoyed with some Southern Cornmeal Hoecakes or a plate of coleslaw. Be sure to prepare extra, as your guests will be reaching for seconds!

Top Tips for Perfecting Pickled Cucumber, Onion, and Bell Pepper Salad

1. Vegetable Choices: Feel free to swap in other vegetables, like radishes or carrots, to mix up the flavors!
2. Adjusting the Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet salad, reduce the sugar in the pickling solution and add a splash more vinegar for tang!
3. Let It Sit: For even better flavor, let the salad marinate overnight in the refrigerator.
4. Experiment with Spices: Adding some red pepper flakes can give your salad a nice kick if you enjoy a little heat.

Storing and Reheating Tips

To store your Pickled Cucumber, Onion, and Bell Pepper Salad, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This salad will stay fresh for up to one week, which makes it a fantastic option for meal prep! There’s no need to reheat; simply enjoy it cold or at room temperature as a refreshing addition to any meal. If you find you have leftovers (though I doubt it with how delicious it is!), just follow the same storing guidelines to keep it flavorful.

So there you have it! A delightful, crunchy, and zesty salad that’s perfect for any occasion. Grab those veggies and get pickling today!

Call to Action

Try this Pickled Cucumber, Onion, and Bell Pepper Salad for your next meal, and don’t forget to share your experience in the comments below! Happy cooking!

Pickled Cucumber, Onion, and Bell Pepper Salad

A vibrant and refreshing salad that combines crisp cucumbers, tangy onions, and colorful bell peppers, all marinated in a zesty pickling solution. Perfect for summer feasts and casual dinners.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 15 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Salad, Side Dish

Cuisine: American, Southern

Calories: 100

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 2 medium cucumbers, sliced thin
• 1 medium red onion, sliced thin
• 1 whole bell pepper, sliced thin any color

Pickling Solution

• 1 cup white vinegar
• 1 cup water
• 1/2 cup sugar adjust sweetness to taste
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dill (optional) for added flavor

Method

 

Preparation

1. Rinse the cucumbers, onion, and bell pepper. Slice them thinly and set them aside in a mixing bowl.

Making the Pickling Solution

1. In a separate bowl, combine the white vinegar, water, sugar, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and dill (if using). Whisk everything together until the sugar and salt dissolve completely.

Combining Ingredients

1. Pour the pickling solution over the sliced vegetables. Toss them gently to ensure each piece is coated with the liquid.

Marination

1. Allow the salad to marinate for at least 10 minutes, though letting it sit in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight will enhance the flavors even more.

Serving

1. After marinating, give everything a good stir, and serve this colorful salad cold or at room temperature.

Notes

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a topping for tacos. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.