Sweet Chili Cucumber Salad

As the temperatures rise and summer unfolds, nothing quite beats the allure of a refreshing salad that captures the essence of the season. The Sweet Chili Cucumber Salad is a vibrant blend of fresh vegetables, herbs, and a delightful dressing that offers a symphony of flavors: sweet, tangy, and just a hint of spice. This dish not only showcases the crispness of cucumbers but also highlights how simple, fresh ingredients can elevate a meal, making it the perfect addition to any summer gathering or a light lunch.

Beat the summer heat with a Sweet Chili Cucumber Salad that’s as refreshing as it is flavorful. This vibrant dish combines crunchy cucumbers, sweet bell peppers, and zesty red onions, all tossed in a delicious sweet chili dressing. Perfect for picnics, BBQs, or a light lunch, this salad offers a delightful medley of textures and tastes, making it a must-try for your warm-weather gatherings. Discover the joy of simple, fresh ingredients elevating your meals!

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Ingredients

3 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced

1/2 red onion, thinly sliced

1/2 bell pepper (red or yellow), thinly sliced

1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

1/4 cup sweet chili sauce

1 tablespoon lime juice

1 teaspoon rice vinegar

Salt and pepper to taste

Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for heat

Toasted sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Vegetables: Slice the cucumbers, red onion, and bell pepper thinly to ensure they combine well and are easy to eat. Place them in a large mixing bowl.

Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the sweet chili sauce, lime juice, rice vinegar, and if desired, red pepper flakes. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Combine: Pour the dressing over the sliced vegetables and toss thoroughly to coat all pieces evenly with the sauce.

Add Fresh Herbs: Gently mix in the chopped cilantro, ensuring it is evenly distributed throughout the salad.

Chill: Cover the salad with plastic wrap or a lid and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Serve: Just before serving, give the salad another good toss and sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top for added crunch and flavor.

Enjoy: Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish or light appetizer at your next gathering!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 45 minutes (including chilling) | 4 servings