Tangy Cucumber Slaw with Peppers

Name: Tangy Cucumber Slaw with Peppers
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 3 cups cucumber, thinly sliced; 2 cups bell peppers, thinly sliced (red, yellow, or green); 1/4 cup red onion, finely sliced; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon honey; Salt and pepper to taste

I absolutely love making this Tangy Cucumber Slaw with Peppers during the summer months. The combination of crisp cucumbers and vibrant bell peppers mixed with a tangy dressing is so refreshing and perfect for barbecues and picnics. I often serve it as a side dish alongside grilled meats, and it adds a delightful crunch to any meal. Plus, it comes together in just minutes, making it a go-to recipe that I can whip up whenever I need something light and zesty.

Created by

Emmas

Last updated on 2026-02-06T15:17:27.297Z

Making this slaw has been a delightful journey for me. I remember the first time I decided to experiment with cucumbers and peppers; the result was a dish bursting with flavor and color. I found that adding a splash of vinegar not only enhances the freshness but also elevates the overall taste profile. This simple trick makes the slaw even more vibrant and tangy, which is perfect for balancing out richer meals.

Over the years, I’ve perfected this recipe by incorporating different vegetables and herbs. Using fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley adds an aromatic touch that truly transforms the dish. I encourage everyone to take this recipe and make it their own—adding your favorite crunch could lead to wonderful discoveries!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Crisp cucumbers mixed with sweet bell peppers
Zesty dressing that brightens up any meal
Perfectly refreshing for warm weather gatherings

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The star ingredient in this Tangy Cucumber Slaw is, of course, the cucumber. It’s best to choose firm cucumbers, such as European or Persian varieties, as they have fewer seeds and a crisper texture. For slicing, use a sharp knife or a mandoline for thin, even slices; this not only ensures a pleasant crunch but also allows the vegetables to absorb the tangy dressing more efficiently.

Bell peppers add a pop of color and sweetness to the slaw. When selecting your peppers, feel free to mix and match colors for visual appeal—red, yellow, and green each bring their unique sweetness levels. If you're looking for a bit of heat, consider adding a few slices of jalapeño or other mild peppers that can complement the refreshing cucumber.

Perfecting the Dressing

The dressing for this slaw is a simple yet zesty mixture that brings everything together. Using apple cider vinegar not only provides the tanginess but also offers health benefits, such as aiding digestion. While honey adds a natural sweetness that balances the acidity, you can swap it with agave syrup for a vegan option or use maple syrup for a different flavor profile.

When mixing the dressing, whisk it vigorously until it becomes glossy and slightly thickened; this ensures that all ingredients are well combined and evenly coats the vegetables without separating. If you prefer a creamier texture, a dollop of Greek yogurt or a splash of tahini can be whisked in, offering a richer mouthfeel while still allowing the fresh flavors to shine through.

Ingredients

For the Slaw

3 cups cucumber, thinly sliced
2 cups bell peppers, thinly sliced (red, yellow, or green)
1/4 cup red onion, finely sliced
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

For the Dressing

3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon honey
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Directions

Prepare the Vegetables

In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, bell peppers, red onion, and cilantro. Toss gently to mix the vegetables evenly.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Combine and Serve

Pour the dressing over the vegetable mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated. Let it sit for about 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Pro Tips

For an extra crunch, consider adding shredded carrots or thinly sliced radishes. This slaw is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Serving Suggestions

This Tangy Cucumber Slaw makes a delightful side dish for barbecued meats and grilled fish, but don’t stop there; it also pairs beautifully with spicy Asian dishes or can be served on tacos for a refreshing crunch. For an elevated presentation, serve it in a chilled bowl or on a platter with sprigs of cilantro as a garnish to brighten up the table.

Another way to enjoy this slaw is to use it as a topping for sandwiches or wraps, where the crunchy texture can really enhance the dish. When spreading on a sandwich, consider layering it with some avocado or hummus for creaminess, creating a balance of textures that is simply irresistible.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you're planning ahead, this slaw can be made a few hours in advance. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Though it's best enjoyed fresh, it will keep for up to 2 days; just know that the cucumbers may release some water as they sit, so give it a gentle toss before serving.

If you're worried about leftover slaw, think about using it in other meals. Toss it into a salad or use it as a filling for rice paper rolls. The flavors tend to deepen as it marinates, enhancing the overall taste. However, avoid freezing it, as the cucumbers and peppers will lose their crispness and become mushy upon thawing.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this slaw ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the slaw a few hours ahead, but for the best texture, it's recommended to dress it just before serving.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

You can add shredded carrots, radishes, or even thinly sliced cabbage for additional crunch and flavor.

→ How long will this slaw last in the fridge?

It will keep well for up to 2 days, but the vegetables may lose their crunch over time.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, all the ingredients used are plant-based, making it a great vegan option.