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Crisp cucumbers meet bright bell peppers in this cool, refreshing side that makes any meal better. The Asian flavors blend with garden veggies and a tangy sesame-ginger mix, creating taste waves that'll wow your mouth. Add some crunch from bagel spice and a touch of heat from chili crisp, and you've got something you won't soon forget.
I came up with this on a super hot summer day when I wanted something cool but filling. After trying tons of different dressings, the sesame-ginger combo was a hit at home, even with my kids who normally turn their noses up at raw veggies.
Key Ingredients Breakdown
- Mini cucumbers: They give that sweet crunch base, so grab firm ones with no soft parts for maximum snap.
- Sweet bell peppers: They bring color and sweetness, so look for shiny ones that feel solid.
- Everything bagel seasoning: This adds amazing savory flavor, and you can buy it or mix it up yourself.
- Chili crisp: It brings a gentle heat that makes everything taste better, just add more or less depending on what you like.
- Rice vinegar: This gives that must-have tang, and traditional rice vinegar tastes most genuine.
- Fresh ginger: Adds warmth and depth, so pick pieces that feel hard with smooth skin.
Putting It All Together
- Getting Veggies Ready:
- Cut those cucumbers into thin circles all about the same size for the best look and feel. Take out the seeds from your peppers before slicing them into skinny strips that match your cucumber pieces.
- Mixing Up Your Dressing:
- Put rice vinegar and soy sauce in a bowl first. Slowly add sesame oil while stirring, then mix in honey for sweetness. Last, stir in your freshly grated ginger and chopped garlic until everything's well mixed.
- Bringing It Together:
- Put all your cut veggies in your serving dish, making sure they're evenly spread out. Pour your fresh dressing all over, then sprinkle that bagel seasoning on top. Drop chili crisp last so its flavors can sink in with everything else.
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The cucumber really wins over everyone at my house. My daughter used to turn up her nose at raw veggies, but now she asks for this salad all the time, especially loving how the cucumber slices soak up all that tasty dressing.
Great Food Matches
This easy salad goes great with grilled chicken covered in teriyaki sauce or a nicely cooked piece of salmon. You can also toss it into rice bowls or serve it alongside spicy Asian main dishes.
Switch Things Up
Try adding thin-cut carrots for more color, or throw in some chunked avocado for creaminess. Want more protein? Top it with some cooked tofu or grilled shrimp.
Staying Fresh
Keep your cut veggies away from the dressing in sealed containers. Only mix them right before you eat to keep everything crisp. Try to finish it within two days for the best taste.
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I've made lots of dishes over the years, but this salad remains one of my favorites. It's so simple but lets fresh ingredients really shine while the right seasonings take it to another level. Whenever I make it, I remember that the easiest combos often make the tastiest food.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How long will this cucumber bell pepper mix stay good?
- The mix tastes best when eaten within 24 hours after making it. Beyond that, the veggies might get watery and lose their snap. Keep it in a sealed container in your fridge.
- → Can I fix the dressing before I need it?
- Absolutely! You can mix up the sesame ginger dressing up to 5 days early and keep it in a sealed jar in the fridge. Just remember to shake it well before pouring.
- → What works instead of chili crisp?
- If chili crisp isn't in your pantry, try red pepper flakes, sriracha, or any kind of chili oil. Just add more or less depending on how spicy you want it.
- → Is this mix gluten-free?
- This mix can be gluten-free if you use tamari instead of regular soy sauce and make sure your Everything But the Bagel blend doesn't contain gluten.
- → What goes well with this side dish?
- This fresh mix tastes great alongside grilled chicken, fish, tofu, or as part of an Oriental-inspired meal. It's also a hit at backyard cookouts and gatherings.