Mediterranean Cucumber Pepper Pickled Salad

This colorful cucumber and pepper salad is crisp, tangy, and packed with fresh vegetables. It’s perfect as a side dish, sandwich topping, or healthy snack.

Ingredients

• 3 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced
• 2 bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange), thinly sliced
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 3 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tsp mustard seeds
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp salt

Dressing

• 1 cup white vinegar or apple cider vinegar
• ½ cup water
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp honey (or sugar)
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp paprika

Instructions

1. Wash and slice all vegetables evenly.
2. Place cucumbers, peppers, onion, garlic, dill, and parsley into a large bowl.
3. In another bowl, whisk together vinegar, water, olive oil, honey, oregano, paprika, salt, black pepper, mustard seeds, and red pepper flakes.
4. Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss until evenly coated.
5. Transfer everything into a clean glass jar.
6. Seal the jar and refrigerate for at least 12–24 hours before serving.
7. Shake the jar before serving for the best flavor.

Prep Time

• Prep: 20 minutes
• Marinating: 12–24 hours
• Total: About 12 hours 20 minutes

Servings

• 6–8 servings

Nutrition (Approx. Per Serving)

• Calories: 75
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 4g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 280mg

Nut Information

•  Naturally peanut-free
•  Naturally tree nut-free
• Always check packaged ingredients (such as mustard or spices) for cross-contamination if serving someone with severe nut allergies.

Storage

• Store refrigerated in an airtight glass jar.
• Best enjoyed within 5–7 days.
• Do not leave at room temperature for extended periods.

Tips

• Add cherry tomatoes for extra freshness.
• Mix in feta cheese just before serving.
• For extra crunch, add sliced radishes.
• Increase red pepper flakes if you like it spicy.

Q&A

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! It actually tastes better after marinating overnight.

Q: Can I use apple cider vinegar?
A: Yes, it gives the salad a slightly sweeter, milder flavor.

Q: Can I make it sugar-free?
A: Absolutely. Omit the honey or sugar, or use a sugar-free sweetener.

Q: How long will it stay fresh?
A: Up to 7 days in the refrigerator.

Q: Can I freeze this salad?
A: No. Freezing makes the vegetables soft and watery.

Q: Is this recipe vegan?
A: Yes, if you replace honey with maple syrup or omit the sweetener.