A Bright, Everyday Salad That Never Gets Old
This bell pepper salad is one of those recipes I come back to again and again, especially when I want something fresh without turning on the stove. It’s crunchy, tangy, and full of color, the kind of salad that instantly wakes up your plate. I first made it on a warm afternoon when I didn’t feel like cooking much, and it quickly became a staple.
The combination of sweet mini peppers, sharp red onion, fresh dill, and a light vinaigrette feels clean and satisfying. It’s simple food done right, and you’ll notice how vibrant it looks the moment everything hits the bowl.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Bell Pepper Salad
This salad relies on fresh produce and a short ingredient list. The flavors shine because nothing is overcomplicated.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound mini bell peppers
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic salt
- 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons vegan feta, crumbled
Preparing the Peppers and Onion
Start by washing the mini bell peppers thoroughly and patting them dry. Slice off the tops, remove the seeds, and cut the peppers into thin rings. I like keeping them fairly thin so they soak up the dressing better and stay light and crisp.
Place the sliced peppers into a large bowl and add the thinly sliced red onion. At this stage, the colors alone are enough to make you hungry—bright reds, yellows, and oranges with pops of purple from the onion.
Mixing the Dill Vinaigrette
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, white wine vinegar, chopped dill, garlic salt, and black pepper. The dill gives off such a fresh aroma here, and the vinegar adds just the right bite. Taste the dressing and adjust if needed—sometimes I add a tiny splash more vinegar if I want extra tang.
Bringing the Salad Together
Pour the dressing over the peppers and onions and toss everything gently until evenly coated. Take your time here so the vegetables don’t bruise.
Add the vegan feta last and toss lightly again. You want the feta to stay in soft crumbles rather than disappearing into the salad. At this point, the salad is ready to serve, but it also benefits from a short chill.
Helpful Tips for the Best Flavor and Texture
- Slice the peppers evenly so every bite feels balanced.
- Let the salad rest for 10–15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
- If raw onion feels too strong, soak it briefly in cold water before adding it to the salad.
- Fresh dill makes a big difference here—dried just won’t give the same lift.
Serving and Storing Bell Pepper Salad
This salad is perfect as a side dish for grilled vegetables, roasted potatoes, or plant-based mains. I also love it tucked into wraps or served alongside sandwiches.
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The peppers will soften slightly, but the flavor actually deepens overnight.
Easy Variations to Try
You can easily customize this salad. Swap dill for parsley or basil for a different herbal note. Add sliced cucumbers for extra crunch, or a handful of olives for a briny contrast. If you’re not vegan, regular feta works beautifully too.
Nutrition Snapshot
This bell pepper salad is naturally low in calories and packed with vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants. The olive oil adds healthy fats, making it light yet satisfying. It’s the kind of dish you can enjoy generously without feeling weighed down.
Bell Pepper Salad Questions Answered
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a few hours in advance. Add the vegan feta just before serving for best texture.
What if I don’t like dill?
You can substitute parsley, chives, or even cilantro for a different flavor profile.
Is this salad good for meal prep?
It works well for short-term meal prep, especially if you enjoy slightly marinated vegetables.
Can I use regular bell peppers instead of mini peppers?
Absolutely. Just slice them thinly and aim for similar bite-sized pieces.
This bell pepper salad is proof that fresh ingredients and a simple dressing can create something truly satisfying. It’s quick, colorful, and one of those recipes you’ll find yourself making without even thinking about it.
