This vibrant salad is packed with colorful sweet peppers, fresh herbs, and a touch of honey dressing that makes everything pop! It’s light, refreshing, and perfect for any meal.
You can enjoy it as a side or toss in some protein for a tasty main dish. I love how the sweetness of the peppers mixes with the honey—it’s a flavor party! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Bell Peppers: Fresh bell peppers are the stars of this salad. Their natural sweetness adds color and crunch. You can mix colors for a visually appealing dish. If bell peppers aren’t available, cucumbers or carrots can give a similar freshness.
Red Onion: The sharpness of red onion complements the sweetness of the peppers. If you find red onion too strong, try using green onions or even sweet Vidalia onions for a milder taste.
Fresh Herbs: I love using parsley, basil, and cilantro. They each bring their unique flavor. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, try using dill or mint instead. Herbs can really brighten up the dish!
Honey: Honey provides natural sweetness to the dressing. If you prefer a sugar-free option, agave syrup or maple syrup can work well as replacements.
How Do I Make Sure My Dressing is Well Mixed?
Getting that perfect dressing mix is key to a tasty salad. To emulsify your dressing, whisk the oil, honey, and lemon juice together until it thickens slightly. Here’s a quick guide to help:
- Use a small bowl or jar. Whisk or shake vigorously.
- Try adding the honey slowly while whisking to help it dissolve.
- If it seems too thick, add a splash of water to loosen it up.
Toss the salad right before serving to keep everything crisp!
Sweet Pepper Salad with Fresh Herbs and Honey Dressing
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 3 large sweet bell peppers (red, yellow, and orange), thinly sliced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley leaves, roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, roughly chopped
For the Honey Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad will take about 15 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend a few minutes slicing the veggies, whipping up the dressing, and tossing everything together. It’s quick and perfect for a fresh side or starter!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
Start by washing your sweet bell peppers. Thinly slice them into strips, and then peel and thinly slice the red onion. They’ll add a nice crunch and flavor to your salad!
2. Combine the Peppers and Onion:
In a large bowl, mix the sliced bell peppers and red onion. This colorful mix will be the base of your salad.
3. Add Fresh Herbs:
Next, toss in the chopped parsley, torn basil, and cilantro. These herbs will bring a fresh, vibrant flavor that brightens up the dish.
4. Make the Honey Dressing:
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, honey, and lemon juice until it’s well mixed and slightly thickened. This will create a lovely dressing that ties the salad together.
5. Dress the Salad:
Pour the honey dressing over your peppers and fresh herbs. Toss everything gently to make sure all the veggies are coated evenly. This step is where all the flavors come together!
6. Season to Taste:
Sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper over the salad to enhance all those beautiful flavors. Give it another light toss.
7. Let It Sit:
Allow the salad to sit for about 10 minutes. This resting time lets the flavors meld together beautifully.
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Your sweet pepper salad is ready to go! Serve it as a colorful, refreshing side dish or a light starter. Enjoy this burst of flavors!
FAQ for Sweet Pepper Salad with Fresh Herbs and Honey Dressing
Can I Use Different Types of Peppers?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for sweet bell peppers, you can mix in other varieties like jalapeños for a little heat or mini bell peppers for added color. Just be cautious with spicier options if you prefer a milder taste!
What Can I Substitute for Honey?
If you’re looking for a honey alternative, agave nectar or maple syrup works wonderfully. If you want a sugar-free option, try using a sugar substitute like stevia, but adjust the quantity to taste since they can be sweeter than honey.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the peppers may soften as they sit, so it’s best enjoyed fresh!
Can I Add Protein to This Salad?
Absolutely! To make the salad a more filling main dish, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas. Simply toss them in before serving for an easy protein boost.
