If you’re on the lookout for a salad that’s bursting with fresh crunch, exciting layers of flavor, and just the right kick of spice, then the Viral TikTok Cucumber & Bell Pepper Salad Recipe is exactly what you need to try next. This salad has taken the internet by storm for a reason—it combines crisp mini cucumbers with sweet bell peppers and a sensational blend of chili crisp oil, ginger sesame dressing, and Everything But The Bagel seasoning to create a vibrant and addictive dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you want a light lunch, a colorful side, or an impressive potluck contribution, this recipe is sure to become one of your favorites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Viral TikTok Cucumber & Bell Pepper Salad Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is thoughtfully chosen to add fresh flavors, vibrant colors, and a nice balance of textures that make this salad so refreshing and memorable.
- Mini cucumbers: These provide the essential crisp, hydrating crunch that makes this salad so refreshing.
- Mini bell peppers: Sweet and colorful, they add a delightful juiciness and brighten the dish with reds, yellows, and oranges.
- Chili crisp oil: A spicy, flavorful oil that brings a perfect heat and depth without overpowering the fresh vegetables.
- Ginger sesame dressing: Adds a nutty, tangy, and slightly sweet note to perfectly complement the veggies.
- Everything But The Bagel seasoning: This iconic seasoning blend provides an addictive savory-crunchy finish that gives the salad its viral status.
How to Make Viral TikTok Cucumber & Bell Pepper Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Vegetables
Start by slicing 3 to 4 mini cucumbers into thin round circles—think about creating delicate but crunchy bites. Then, slice 6 to 7 mini bell peppers lengthwise into thin strips. This cutting technique ensures every forkful has a perfect mix of crisp cucumber and sweet pepper.
Step 2: Combine the Veggies
Grab a large mixing bowl where you’ll combine all your thinly sliced cucumbers and bell peppers. The roomy bowl will make it easier to toss everything evenly later on, so the dressing coats each piece just right.
Step 3: Add the Flavor Bombs
Drizzle 2 tablespoons of chili crisp oil and about 1/4 cup of ginger sesame dressing over the combined vegetables. Then sprinkle 2 1/2 teaspoons of Everything But The Bagel seasoning on top. These three components are the magic that transforms simple veggies into the Viral TikTok Cucumber & Bell Pepper Salad Recipe everyone loves.
Step 4: Toss Gently but Thoroughly
Using salad tongs or clean hands, gently toss the salad to make sure that the chili crisp oil, ginger sesame dressing, and seasoning are evenly dispersed. Be careful not to mash the vegetables; you want to keep everything looking fresh and crisp.
Step 5: Chill and Let Flavors Marry
Pop the salad into the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This chill time helps the flavors meld beautifully, letting the dressing and seasonings infuse deep into the vegetables for a more harmonious taste experience.
How to Serve Viral TikTok Cucumber & Bell Pepper Salad Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra pop of flavor and texture, consider sprinkling some toasted sesame seeds or finely chopped scallions right before serving. These garnishes add an inviting look and a little something special in every bite.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully alongside grilled chicken, seared fish, or even a hearty grain bowl. It brings a fresh and tangy contrast to richer mains, making your meal feel lighter, brighter, and more balanced.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re feeling creative, serve this salad in hollowed-out mini bell peppers or cucumber boats for a fun, bite-sized appetizer. Alternatively, layering it in clear glass jars adds a pretty visual effect that’s perfect for picnics or potlucks.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Viral TikTok Cucumber & Bell Pepper Salad Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the vegetables may soften slightly but will still maintain their bright flavor.
Freezing
This salad is best enjoyed fresh and does not freeze well because cucumbers and bell peppers become watery and lose their crispness when thawed. It’s definitely a fresh treat meant to be savored soon after making.
Reheating
Since this is a chilled salad, reheating is not recommended. Instead, give it a quick stir to redistribute the dressing if you serve it after some time in the fridge for that freshly tossed sensation.
FAQs
Can I use regular cucumbers instead of mini cucumbers?
Absolutely! Just make sure to slice them thinly to maintain the salad’s refreshing crunch and adjust the quantity to keep the balance of flavors just right.
Is the chili crisp oil spicy?
Yes, it does have a spicy kick, but it’s balanced with savory and aromatic flavors. You can adjust the amount or omit it if you prefer a milder salad.
Where can I find Everything But The Bagel seasoning?
This seasoning is widely available in grocery stores, online, or you can make a homemade blend with sesame seeds, dried garlic, onion, and salt.
Can I make the ginger sesame dressing from scratch?
Definitely! A simple mixture of grated ginger, sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a bit of honey can replicate the flavors beautifully if you don’t have a store-bought version.
What if I’m not a fan of bell peppers?
No worries—thinly sliced radishes or snap peas can add a similar crunch and fresh flavor without changing the salad’s essence.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly delightful about the Viral TikTok Cucumber & Bell Pepper Salad Recipe that makes it so easy to recommend. It’s vibrant, packed with flavor, and effortlessly impressive, making it a must-try recipe for anyone who loves fresh and fun salads. Give it a go, share it with your friends, and savor every crunchy, spicy, and tangy bite!
Print
Viral TikTok Cucumber & Bell Pepper Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American Fusion
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing and vibrant TikTok-inspired salad combining crunchy mini cucumbers and colorful mini bell peppers, tossed in a flavorful chili crisp oil and ginger sesame dressing, finished with a sprinkle of Everything But The Bagel seasoning. Perfect as a light snack or side dish that is quick to prepare and bursting with umami and spice.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 3–4 mini cucumbers, sliced into thin circles
- 6–7 mini bell peppers, sliced thinly
Dressings & Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons chili crisp oil
- 1/4 cup Ginger Sesame Dressing
- 2 1/2 teaspoons Everything But The Bagel Seasoning
Instructions
- Slice Vegetables: Thinly slice the mini cucumbers into circles and cut the mini bell peppers into thin slices to ensure even coating and ease of eating.
- Combine Ingredients: Place all the sliced cucumbers and bell peppers together in a large mixing bowl.
- Add Dressings and Seasoning: Drizzle the chili crisp oil and the ginger sesame dressing evenly over the vegetables, then sprinkle the Everything But The Bagel seasoning on top for a burst of savory flavor.
- Toss Salad: Gently toss the salad using salad tongs or two large spoons until all the vegetables are well coated with the dressings and seasoning.
- Chill to Marinate: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully and the vegetables to crisp up with the seasonings.
Notes
- Use mini cucumbers and mini bell peppers for their tender texture and vibrant colors.
- Chilling the salad helps enhance the flavor but can be served immediately if needed.
- Adjust the amount of chili crisp oil based on your preferred spice level.
- Everything But The Bagel seasoning can be found in most grocery stores or online.
- This salad is best enjoyed fresh within 1-2 days for optimal crunchiness.
