Name: Cucumber and Bell Pepper Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients: 4 Persian cucumbers, thinly sliced; 6 mini sweet bell peppers, sliced; 1½ tbsp chili oil; 2 tbsp sesame-ginger dressing; 1 tbsp Everything But The Bagel seasoning; Optional: fresh lime juice, cilantro, sesame seeds, or red pepper flakes

There’s something undeniably satisfying about a crunchy, colorful salad—especially one that’s as trendy and downright addictive as this Viral TikTok Cucumber and Bell Pepper Salad. If you’ve been scrolling through TikTok lately, you’ve probably seen this salad pop up over and over again. And let me tell you, it’s absolutely worth the hype.

With just a handful of ingredients—think Persian cucumbers, mini bell peppers, and a zippy sesame-ginger dressing—this salad manages to hit every note: it’s sweet, spicy, tangy, and incredibly refreshing. Perfect for warm weather, this dish makes a great side for grilled meats, a crunchy topping for rice bowls, or even a light lunch all on its own.

What truly makes this salad stand out is its simplicity. It comes together in just minutes, doesn’t require any cooking, and tastes even better after it’s had a chance to chill in the fridge. That means it’s not only easy, but also make-ahead friendly—ideal for summer gatherings, meal prepping, or those days when you just don’t feel like turning on the stove.

I first made this Cucumber and Bell Pepper Salad on a whim after seeing it on my “For You” page for the tenth time, and it instantly became a staple in my fridge. My whole family is obsessed, especially on hot days when something crisp and cool is all we’re craving. The flavors are bold, the texture is crunchy, and the whole dish feels like a fresh breeze.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are plenty of reasons to fall in love with this TikTok-famous salad, whether you’re a salad skeptic or a veggie lover through and through.

First, it’s incredibly easy to make. There’s no stove, no oven, and no fancy equipment needed—just a cutting board, a knife, and a bowl. Even if you’re not super confident in the kitchen, this recipe is totally doable.

Second, it’s loaded with flavor. The Persian cucumbers bring a clean, refreshing crunch. The mini sweet peppers add vibrant color and subtle sweetness. Then the chili oil and sesame-ginger dressing come in with bold, spicy, and umami-rich flavors. To top it all off, Everything But The Bagel seasoning adds a salty, savory finish that’s simply irresistible.

Third, it’s incredibly versatile. This salad can be customized endlessly. Want it spicier? Add extra chili oil or crushed red pepper flakes. Need more protein? Toss in some grilled chicken, chickpeas, or tofu. It’s also naturally gluten-free and can be easily made vegan depending on the dressing you use.

And finally, it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a healthy lunch, a side dish for a barbecue, or a vibrant potluck contribution, this salad fits the bill. It’s colorful, crowd-pleasing, and never boring.

Health Benefits

This cucumber and bell pepper salad doesn’t just taste good—it’s packed with nutrients that make it a healthy choice too.

Cucumbers are hydrating and low in calories, making them great for snacking and digestion. They’re high in water content and also offer small amounts of vitamins C and K.

Mini bell peppers are rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber. The red, orange, and yellow varieties bring not only beautiful color but also immune-boosting properties.

Chili oil, while used in moderation, can help speed up metabolism thanks to capsaicin—a compound found in chili peppers. It also adds a warming kick that makes the salad exciting to eat.

Sesame-ginger dressing typically includes healthy fats from sesame oil, as well as ginger, which is known for its anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits.

Everything But The Bagel seasoning brings a bit of garlic, onion, sesame seeds, and poppy seeds into the mix. It enhances flavor without needing additional salt.

So not only is this Cucumber and Bell Pepper Salad a flavor bomb, but it’s also nourishing and satisfying.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

Total Time: 10 minutes prep + 30 minutes chill
Servings: 4 servings
Calories per serving: 120
Protein: 2g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fat: 8g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 4g

Ingredients List

To make this bright and spicy salad, you’ll need just a few fresh and pantry ingredients:

4 Persian cucumbers, thinly sliced
These are small, crunchy, and have very little bitterness or seeds. English cucumbers work as a substitute.
6 mini sweet bell peppers, sliced into rings
Choose a mix of red, orange, and yellow for a colorful, sweet crunch.
1½ tablespoons chili oil
Adds a spicy depth. Go for a brand like Fly By Jing, or any chili crisp you love.
2 tablespoons sesame-ginger dressing
Bragg’s is a popular option, but any Asian-inspired dressing will do.
1 tablespoon Everything But The Bagel seasoning
Adds crunch, garlic flavor, and visual texture.
Optional additions: chopped cilantro, toasted sesame seeds, lime juice, or crushed red pepper flakes

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

Prepare the vegetables
Start by rinsing your cucumbers and bell peppers thoroughly under cold water. Dry them with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to remove excess moisture.
Slice the cucumbers
Using a sharp knife or mandoline, cut the Persian cucumbers into thin rounds. If you’re using English cucumbers, slice them a bit thinner to compensate for their larger size and higher water content.
Cut the mini bell peppers
Slice the mini sweet peppers into thin rings, removing any seeds or membranes. The thinner the slices, the better the crunch and flavor distribution.
Combine the vegetables
Place the sliced cucumbers and peppers into a large mixing bowl. Toss them gently to mix evenly.
Add the chili oil and dressing
Drizzle the chili oil and sesame-ginger dressing over the vegetables. Using tongs or clean hands, toss everything together until the veggies are well-coated. Make sure the dressing reaches every slice.
Season with Everything But The Bagel seasoning
Sprinkle in the seasoning mix and toss again. This will add extra flavor and a little crunch to each bite.
Chill the salad
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to an airtight container. Refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes before serving. This gives the flavors time to meld and makes the salad extra refreshing.
Taste and adjust
After chilling, give the salad a quick stir and taste. If you want more heat, add an extra dash of chili oil. If it needs more tang, a squeeze of lime juice works wonders.

How to Serve

This Cucumber and Bell Pepper Salad is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. Here are a few of our favorite ways to enjoy it:

As a light side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish
On top of a rice bowl with tofu or shrimp
As a crunchy topping for tacos or lettuce wraps
Tossed into cold soba noodles for a refreshing noodle salad
Served alone as a healthy lunch or snack

Pairing Suggestions

To make this salad a complete meal or side, pair it with:

Grilled turkey or chicken kebabs for a protein-packed combo
Lemon herb quinoa or brown rice for added fiber
Edamame or chickpeas to boost protein for vegetarian versions
Iced green tea or a sparkling citrus drink to complement the spice
Soft pita bread or naan if you want a more filling meal

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but here’s how to keep it delicious for later:

Storage:
Place the salad in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The cucumbers may release some liquid, so give it a quick stir before serving again.

Freezing:
Freezing is not recommended, as the fresh vegetables will lose their crisp texture.

Reheating:
This is a cold salad and should not be reheated. If you’ve stored it in the fridge, just give it a good mix and enjoy it straight from the container.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Skipping the chill time: This salad needs time for the flavors to soak in. Don’t skip the refrigeration step.
Using watery cucumbers: Avoid overly large cucumbers with too many seeds. Persian or English cucumbers are ideal.
Overdressing: Start with less dressing and chili oil, then add more to taste. You can always add more, but you can’t take it out.
Not slicing thinly enough: Thin slices mean better texture and even coating of dressing.
Storing with excess liquid: Drain off any extra moisture before storing to maintain crispness.

Pro Tips

Use a mandoline to get perfectly even slices. This helps with presentation and ensures each bite has a consistent crunch.
Add protein like tofu, grilled chicken, or hard-boiled eggs to make it a full meal.
Customize your spice level by choosing your chili oil carefully—some are much spicier than others.
Finish with fresh herbs like cilantro, mint, or Thai basil for extra brightness.
Make it in advance for parties or meal prep. It actually tastes better after a few hours in the fridge.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use English cucumbers instead of Persian cucumbers?
Yes, English cucumbers are a great substitute. Just make sure to slice them thinly and optionally scoop out some of the seeds if they’re too watery.

Is this salad vegan?
It can be! Just double-check that your sesame-ginger dressing is vegan, or make your own.

What if I don’t have Everything But The Bagel seasoning?
No problem. You can use a mix of sesame seeds, garlic powder, onion flakes, and a pinch of salt for a similar flavor.

How spicy is this salad?
The spice level depends on the chili oil you use. Start with less and add more if you like it hot.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. It actually improves with a few hours in the fridge. Just don’t store it too long or the veggies may soften.

How long does it last in the fridge?
It will stay fresh for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container.

Can I add protein?
Yes! Chickpeas, tofu, shredded chicken, or hard-boiled eggs make great additions.

Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, as long as your dressing and seasoning are certified gluten-free.

Can I use a different dressing?
Of course. A rice vinegar and sesame oil blend works beautifully if you don’t have bottled sesame-ginger dressing.

What can I serve this with?
It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, rice dishes, or as a fresh contrast to spicy main courses.

Conclusion & Call to Action

This Viral TikTok Cucumber and Bell Pepper Salad is more than just a social media trend—it’s a fresh, flavorful, and foolproof dish you’ll want to make again and again. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a colorful side, or a healthy meal prep idea, this salad delivers on every level.

Now it’s your turn to try it! I’d love to see how you make it your own. Add your favorite toppings, play with the spice level, or use it as inspiration for your own viral creation. If you do make it, don’t forget to snap a photo and tag me—I can’t wait to see your beautiful bowls of crunchy goodness.

Happy cooking!