Bell Pepper Salad

Preparation Time: 20 minutes Cooking Time: 0 minutes Optional Chilling Time: 15 minutes Total Time: 35 minutes Recipe Intensity Preparation Intensity: Low Cooking Intensity: None Skill Level: Beginner-Friendly Ingredients For the Salad 2 red bell peppers, thinly sliced 2 yellow bell peppers, thinly sliced 1 orange bell pepper, thinly sliced 1 green bell pepper, thinly

Equipment

• Large salad bowl
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Small mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Salad tongs

Ingredients

For the Salad

• 2 red bell peppers, thinly sliced
• 2 yellow bell peppers, thinly sliced
• 1 orange bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 medium cucumber, diced
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped

For the Dressing

• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice, freshly squeezed
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• ½ teaspoon sea salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Optional Toppings

• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
• ¼ cup sliced black olives
• 1 avocado, diced
• 2 tablespoons sunflower seeds
• 2 tablespoons pumpkin seeds

Instructions

Intensity Level: Low

1. This step requires only basic knife skills and takes approximately 15–20 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Fresh Herbs

1. Finely chop the parsley and basil.
2. Add them to the bowl with the vegetables.
3. Fresh herbs provide brightness and enhance the overall flavor profile of the salad.

Intensity Level: Low

1. A simple step that adds freshness and aroma.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

1. In a small bowl, combine:
2. Olive oil
3. Lemon juice
4. Red wine vinegar
5. Dijon mustard
6. Honey
7. Garlic
8. Salt
9. Black pepper
10. Whisk vigorously until the dressing becomes smooth and fully emulsified.
11. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
12. If you prefer a tangier dressing, add an extra teaspoon of lemon juice.

Intensity Level: Low

1. The dressing takes only a few minutes to prepare and brings all the ingredients together.

Step 4: Dress the Salad

1. Pour the dressing over the vegetables.
2. Using salad tongs, gently toss everything together until all ingredients are evenly coated.
3. Make sure the dressing reaches every piece of pepper and vegetable.

Intensity Level: Low

1. Gentle tossing helps maintain the vegetables’ crisp texture.

Step 5: Chill the Salad (Optional)

1. For enhanced flavor, cover the salad and refrigerate for 15 minutes before serving.
2. This resting time allows the vegetables to absorb the dressing and blend the flavors together.

Intensity Level: None

1. A hands-off step that improves the overall taste.

Step 6: Add Toppings and Serve

1. Just before serving, add your desired toppings:
2. Feta cheese
3. Olives
4. Avocado
5. Sunflower seeds
6. Pumpkin seeds
7. Toss lightly and serve immediately.

Intensity Level: Low

1. These toppings add texture, richness, and visual appeal.

Nutrition

Calories: 155 · Protein: 2g · Fat: 12g · Carbohydrates: 11g · Saturated Fat: 1.5g · Fiber: 3g · Sugar: 7g · Sodium: 220mg