Cucumber Bell Pepper Salad

If you’ve spent any time scrolling through your favorite social media feeds lately—especially TikTok—you’ve likely come across the ultra-trendy cucumber and bell pepper salad that’s taken the internet by storm. What started as a simple, crunchy snack has evolved into a full-on sensation, and after making it myself, I completely understand the hype.

At first glance, it might not seem like anything revolutionary. Just sliced mini cucumbers, some colorful bell peppers, and a quick drizzle of dressing and chili oil, right? But the moment you take a bite, everything changes. It’s crisp, tangy, spicy, and just the right amount of savory. It hits your taste buds with a perfect mix of freshness and umami. And the best part? It only takes about 10 minutes to make.

This salad became my go-to side dish almost immediately. I made it once for a quick lunch and couldn’t believe how addictive it was. The crunch of the veggies, the heat from the chili oil, and the bold flavors of the sesame ginger dressing—all finished off with a generous sprinkle of Everything But the Bagel seasoning—made it taste like something from a gourmet Asian-fusion bistro. But I had made it in my own kitchen, using just five ingredients and zero cooking.

Since then, I’ve served it with grilled chicken, packed it up for a picnic, and even brought it to a potluck where it was gone in minutes. Everyone asks for the recipe. And when I tell them how easy it is, they’re usually shocked. This salad proves that viral recipes aren’t just gimmicks—they can be genuinely delicious, creative, and totally worth trying.

Why You’ll Love This Cucumber Bell Pepper Salad

You might be wondering—what makes this cucumber and bell pepper salad so special? After all, there are plenty of crunchy veggie salads out there. But this one? It offers the kind of bold, addictive flavor that keeps you coming back for more, with almost no effort required. There are several reasons this recipe has gone viral, and once you try it for yourself, you’ll understand why it’s quickly becoming a favorite across kitchens everywhere.

To start, this recipe is incredibly easy to make. We’re talking about a salad that comes together in less than 10 minutes, start to finish. There’s no stove, oven, or blender involved. No marinating, no special prep tools, and no complicated techniques. All you have to do is slice the cucumbers and bell peppers, drizzle on the dressing and chili oil, sprinkle the seasoning, and you’re done. That’s it. It’s ideal for beginners and seasoned cooks alike who want a flavor-packed side dish without any fuss.

Then there’s the texture. This salad is nothing if not crunchy. The cucumbers bring a crisp bite, the bell peppers add another layer of satisfying crunch, and the sunflower seeds or sesame toppings (if you decide to add them) create a texture party in every forkful. It’s one of those dishes that feels refreshing and satisfying all at once.

Let’s not forget the flavor combination. The sesame ginger dressing brings a tangy, umami-rich depth that balances beautifully with the sweetness of the bell peppers. The chili oil introduces a gentle heat that wakes up your taste buds without overwhelming them. And the Everything But the Bagel seasoning adds a salty, savory edge that’s totally unexpected in a salad—but somehow works perfectly.

Another reason to love this dish is how versatile it is. Want to make it a meal? Toss it with cold soba noodles, cooked quinoa, or add a protein like grilled tofu, shrimp, or shredded chicken. Looking to reduce spice? Use less chili oil or swap it out entirely for sesame oil or olive oil. Want to get creative? Add avocado slices, chopped cilantro, edamame, or even a handful of crispy wonton strips for extra flair.

It’s also great for meal prep. The veggies hold up surprisingly well for a few days in the fridge, especially if you store the dressing separately. That makes this salad ideal for weekday lunches or grab-and-go snacks.

Health Benefits Cucumber Bell Pepper Salad

Don’t let the trendiness of this salad fool you—it’s far more than a viral sensation. This cucumber and bell pepper salad is a powerhouse of nutrition, offering a wide range of health benefits from every crisp, colorful bite. It’s made entirely from real, whole-food ingredients, and it aligns beautifully with plant-based, gluten-free, and clean eating lifestyles.

Let’s start with cucumbers, the base of the salad. These hydrating vegetables are made up of over 95% water, making them a fantastic option for keeping you refreshed and helping you meet your hydration goals—especially in the warmer months. Cucumbers are also low in calories and high in antioxidants, including flavonoids and tannins, which help fight inflammation and protect your cells from damage.

Bell peppers, another key player in this dish, are nutritional superstars. They’re one of the best sources of vitamin C, which supports immune function, collagen production, and wound healing. A single cup of chopped bell peppers can provide more than 100% of your daily recommended intake of vitamin C. They also contain beta-carotene, an antioxidant your body converts into vitamin A to support eye health and skin vitality.

Chili oil, though typically used in small quantities, contains capsaicin—a compound that’s been shown to boost metabolism, support fat oxidation, and even reduce appetite slightly in some studies. It also gives your digestive system a kickstart and can help reduce inflammation when used in moderation.

The sesame ginger dressing adds more than just flavor. Sesame seeds are rich in healthy fats, particularly polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats, which support heart health. They also contain magnesium, calcium, and phytosterols, which can contribute to lower blood pressure and cholesterol. Ginger, meanwhile, is well known for its anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits. It’s been used for centuries to help ease nausea, reduce bloating, and support overall gut health.

🥄 Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions Cucumber Bell Pepper Salad

Who knew something so simple could taste this good? This 5-ingredient salad is the very definition of “don’t overthink it.” It’s crunchy, spicy, tangy, and totally addictive. The key here is balance—bright veggies, a rich sesame-ginger base, spicy chili oil, and that signature Everything But the Bagel seasoning for a little oniony, garlicky magic.

Whether you’re making it for a backyard barbecue or meal-prepping for the week, here’s a detailed guide to help you nail it every time.

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🛒 Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Let’s talk through what you’ll need and what makes each ingredient essential.

🌿 Base Veggies:

• 3–4 mini cucumbers, thinly sliced

  • You can also use Persian or English cucumbers for a similar crunch.

• 6–7 mini sweet bell peppers, sliced into rings or half-moons

  • These come in red, yellow, and orange. The sweetness contrasts beautifully with the heat of the chili oil.

🥣 Flavor Bombs:

• 2 tbsp chili crisp oil

  • A game-changer. Brands like Fly By Jing or Lao Gan Ma are perfect here. Use more or less depending on your spice tolerance.

• ¼ cup ginger sesame dressing

  • Store-bought works fine (Bragg’s is a great option), or you can make your own with sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, grated ginger, and a little honey or maple syrup.

• 2½ tsp Everything But the Bagel seasoning

  • This gives the salad that signature savory crunch with garlic, onion, sesame, poppy seeds, and sea salt.

🧠 Optional Add-Ins: Crushed peanuts, sesame seeds, green onions, or a splash of lime juice.

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🔪 Step 2: Slice Your Veggies

➤ Cucumbers:

• Wash and pat dry the cucumbers.

• Slice thinly into rounds (about ⅛ inch thick).

• If using larger cucumbers, slice them in half lengthwise first and scoop out the seeds for less water content.

➤ Bell Peppers:

• Wash and remove stems.

• Slice in half lengthwise, remove seeds and membranes, then slice into rings or strips.

🧠 Pro Tip: Keep the veggies uniform in size for a better bite and more even coating of the dressing.

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🥣 Step 3: Build the Salad Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine:

• Sliced cucumbers

• Sliced bell peppers

Toss gently to combine. Don’t add any dressing or oil just yet—get everything evenly layered first so the flavors coat each bite.

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🌶️ Step 4: Add the Dressing & Chili Oil

Now for the flavor punch!

1. Drizzle in ¼ cup of ginger sesame dressing.

2. Add 2 tablespoons of chili crisp oil (start with 1 if you’re sensitive to heat).

3. Sprinkle in 2½ teaspoons of Everything But the Bagel seasoning.

🧠 Adjust to taste: If you want more dressing, add it in increments to avoid over-saturating the veggies. Add the chili oil a teaspoon at a time if you’re new to it.

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🥄 Step 5: Toss to Coat

Use salad tongs or two large spoons to toss everything gently but thoroughly. The goal is to get every cucumber and bell pepper slice coated in that sesame-chili goodness.

You’ll notice the seasoning sticking to the vegetables right away, and that’s what you want. This salad doesn’t need to marinate for hours—just a short chill helps the flavors bloom.

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🧊 Step 6: Chill (Optional but Recommended)

You can absolutely eat this salad immediately (and you will be tempted), but if you have time, pop it in the fridge for 30 minutes.

Why?

• The chili oil flavor deepens.

• The cucumbers stay crisp but slightly absorb the dressing.

• It just tastes colder and more refreshing, especially on a hot day.

🧠 Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep this salad in the morning and eat it for lunch or dinner later. Just give it a quick toss again before serving.

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🧡 Step 7: Taste and Tweak

Before serving, taste a bite:

• Want it saltier? Add a pinch of sea salt or a splash of soy sauce.

• Too spicy? Add a little more dressing or a few extra slices of cucumber to mellow the heat.

• Missing crunch? Top with toasted sesame seeds or roasted peanuts right before serving.

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💡 Optional Variations

Make it your own with these creative add-ins:

• High-protein version: Add shredded rotisserie chicken, tofu cubes, or even hard-boiled eggs.

• Low-carb lunch: Serve over a scoop of cottage cheese or pair with a boiled egg and avocado slices.

• Turn it into a bowl: Mix with cold noodles (like soba or rice noodles) and top with sliced almonds or scallions.

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🍽️ How to Serve Cucumber Bell Pepper Salad

This salad is incredibly flexible. You can enjoy it as a side, snack, or full-blown lunch depending on how you build around it. Here’s how to serve it at its absolute best:

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🧺 Picnic or BBQ Side Dish

Because it’s:

• Dairy-free

• Mayo-free

• Not easily wilted

…it’s ideal for outdoor events. Pair with grilled proteins or a charcuterie board for a complete warm-weather spread.

Try it with:

• Grilled kebabs or skewers

• Turkey burgers

• Pulled chicken sandwiches

• Grilled corn on the cob

🧠 Tip: Serve chilled for the most refreshing contrast to hot grilled foods.

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🥗 Light Meal or Lunch Bowl

Need something light but filling?

• Serve it over a bed of greens like arugula or baby spinach.

• Top with protein (chicken, shrimp, or crispy tofu).

• Add brown rice or quinoa for a more substantial base.

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🥣 Snack-Worthy or Meal Prep Bites

This salad is so addictive it works as a snack, too!

• Portion into small containers for grab-and-go fridge snacks.

• Pack with crackers or rice cakes.

• Top with avocado or a soft-boiled egg for a quick midday refuel.

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✨ Garnish & Finish

• Extra drizzle of chili oil for spice lovers

• A few pinches of Everything Bagel seasoning before serving

• Fresh cilantro or mint leaves for an herbaceous twist

• Lime wedges for squeezing over top

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🥂 Pairing Suggestions

The bold, spicy-tangy flavors of this cucumber bell pepper salad call for light, cooling, or savory partners. Whether you’re crafting a full meal or putting together a spread, these pairings bring balance and harmony.

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🍗 Protein Pairings

Pair this salad with something grilled, savory, or umami-forward to highlight contrast:

• Lemon-Garlic Chicken Thighs – Zesty and juicy, a perfect match for chili oil.

• Teriyaki Salmon – Sweet and savory flavors balance the salad’s spice.

• Pan-Fried Tofu – Crisp edges, soft center—delicious hot or cold.

• Turkey or Veggie Lettuce Wraps – Great texture and a light main to keep things refreshing.

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🍚 Carb-Based Pairings

Round it out with a grain or noodle for a more complete meal:

• Steamed Jasmine Rice or Coconut Rice – To absorb the chili and sesame flavors.

• Cold Soba or Rice Noodles – Toss with a little soy sauce and lime juice for a fresh grain bowl.

• Pita Chips or Crackers – Scoop up the salad for a fun twist on dippable snacks.

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🧃 Drink Pairings

This salad has a little heat, so drinks that are cooling, fruity, or citrusy are best.

Non-Alcoholic Faves:

• Sparkling water with lime and mint

• Watermelon juice with basil

• Hibiscus iced tea with honey

• Mango-coconut mocktail

Mocktails to Try:

• Lychee cucumber spritz

• Grapefruit ginger soda

• Iced green tea with lemon and mint

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❄️ Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

Even though this salad is at its peak on day one, it stores surprisingly well for something so fresh and crisp. Here’s how to keep it crunchy, flavorful, and fridge-friendly.

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🧊 How to Store It

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.

• Best enjoyed within 3–4 days.

• If the salad sits, some liquid will settle at the bottom—just give it a good stir before serving.

🧠 Tip: Keep some extra bagel seasoning or chili oil on hand for a flavor refresh if needed.

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🥡 Make-Ahead Tips

Want to prep it for later in the week?

• Slice the veggies ahead of time and store them dry in a container with a paper towel to absorb moisture.

• Mix the dressing separately and toss just before serving or the night before.

This keeps the cucumbers super crisp and prevents sogginess.

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❄️ Can You Freeze It?

Unfortunately, no. Cucumbers and peppers become soggy and watery after freezing, and the texture of the dressing will change.

❌ Skip freezing. This salad is best fresh or fridge-stored for a few days max.

❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid

This Viral TikTok Cucumber & Bell Pepper Salad is so simple that it’s almost impossible to mess up—but a few small oversights can dull the flavor or mess with the texture. Let’s break down some common pitfalls so your salad hits all the right notes from the very first toss.

1. Slicing the Veggies Too Thick

This salad is all about that crisp, refreshing crunch. If your cucumber and bell pepper slices are too thick, they won’t absorb the dressing as well and might feel bulky instead of light. Aim for thin, even slices—either by hand or with a mandoline for pro-level precision.

2. Overdressing the Salad

Because both chili oil and sesame dressing have strong, bold flavors, it’s easy to overdo it. Start with less than you think you need, toss well, and taste before adding more. You can always add extra later, but you can’t take it back once it’s swimming in oil.

3. Using Regular Cucumbers Without Prepping Them

If you’re subbing in regular cucumbers for minis, make sure to peel and deseed them. The skin can be waxy and tough, and the seeds may release water and dilute your dressing.

4. Not Tossing Right Before Serving (If Chilled)

This salad tastes amazing after chilling for 30–60 minutes, but it can settle as it sits. Give it a good stir before serving to redistribute the dressing and seasoning—otherwise, all the flavor sinks to the bottom.

5. Skipping the Chill (When You Have Time)

Yes, it’s great right away, but if you’ve got even 20–30 minutes, let it chill in the fridge. It gives the flavors time to meld and makes the salad extra refreshing, especially on a hot day.

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✅ Pro Tips

This salad’s simplicity is part of its charm—but don’t let that fool you. A few small tricks can turn it from a tasty snack into a total flavor bomb. Here’s how to make the most of this TikTok-famous cucumber and bell pepper salad every time you whip it up.

1. Choose the Right Cucumbers

Mini cucumbers (sometimes called Persian or snacking cucumbers) are ideal here—they’re naturally crisp, with thin skins and minimal seeds. If you only have English or regular cucumbers, go ahead and use them, just peel and deseed for the best texture.

2. Balance the Dressing to Your Taste

Some ginger sesame dressings are sweet, while others are heavy on the vinegar or umami. Taste your dressing first. If it’s super tangy, you might want to mellow it out with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup. If it’s sweet, a splash of rice vinegar adds balance.

3. Use High-Quality Chili Crisp

A good chili crisp brings both heat and flavor. Look for one that has crunchy garlic, onion, and actual chili flakes—like Fly By Jing, Momofuku, or Lao Gan Ma. If you’re spice-shy, start with a small amount and build your way up.

4. Make It Meal-Prep Friendly

This salad keeps really well in the fridge for a few days. For meal prep, store it in a glass container and keep a sprinkle of Everything But the Bagel seasoning on the side to add just before eating. It keeps the flavor bold and the texture crisp.

5. Elevate with Toppings

A few easy toppings can take this salad to the next level. Try:

• Crumbled feta or cotija for creaminess

• Sliced green onions or chives for a fresh bite

• A squeeze of lime for extra zing

• Toasted sesame seeds for even more crunch

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❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, and it actually gets better after about 30–60 minutes in the fridge. The flavors have time to meld, and the veggies stay nice and crisp. Just give it a quick toss before serving to redistribute the dressing and seasoning.

How long does it last in the fridge?

This salad holds up well for 3–4 days when stored in an airtight container. The cucumbers may release a bit of water over time, so drain off any excess liquid if needed and refresh with a little more chili oil or dressing before eating.

Is it really spicy?

It depends on the brand and amount of chili crisp you use. Some are milder with a subtle heat, while others pack a serious punch. If you’re not into spice, start with a teaspoon or two—or swap in a neutral oil like sesame or olive oil.

Can I use regular bell peppers instead of mini ones?

Absolutely! Just cut them into thin strips or small bite-sized chunks. Using a mix of red, yellow, and orange adds a rainbow of color and natural sweetness to balance the dressing’s umami kick.

What if I don’t have Everything But the Bagel seasoning?

You can DIY it! Mix together:

• Sesame seeds (white and black if possible)

• Garlic powder

• Onion flakes or powder

• Poppy seeds

• A pinch of flaky salt
  Or just sub in toasted sesame seeds and a little garlic/onion powder for a similar vibe.

Is this salad good for meal prep or work lunches?

Yes! It’s naturally vegan, gluten-free, and low-carb, making it a great choice for clean eating or plant-based meals. It travels well and stays crunchy for days—just pack it in a sealed container and keep it chilled until lunchtime.

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🥗 Conclusion & Call to Action

The hype is real—this Viral TikTok Cucumber & Bell Pepper Salad totally lives up to its fame. It’s crunchy, colorful, flavorful, and comes together in literally 10 minutes with just a handful of ingredients. Whether you’re serving it up as a fresh BBQ side, meal-prepping it for the week, or just need something snacky to munch on during the day, it delivers every time.

And it’s so easy to make your own! Dial the spice up or down, swap the dressing for something homemade, or add protein to turn it into a light lunch. This recipe is endlessly flexible and naturally fits into just about any diet—it’s vegan, gluten-free, and low in carbs. Plus, it’s pretty much guaranteed to get you compliments wherever it goes.

One of the best parts? It proves that salads don’t need to be boring or full of greens to be good for you. This one is fun, punchy, and just a little addictive in the best way. That combo of chili crisp and sesame dressing is basically flavor magic.

So go ahead—grab your cucumbers and bell peppers, shake up that chili oil, and get tossing! 🥒🔥 If you make it, I’d love to hear how you liked it. Tag me on social, leave a comment, or share your favorite topping combos. Did you turn it into a meal? Add avocado? Sprinkle it over rice?

This is one salad that’s here to stay—and once you’ve tried it, you’ll totally get why.

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