Mediterranean Pickled Cucumber, Onion & Bell Pepper Salad
Introduction
This Mediterranean Pickled Cucumber, Onion & Bell Pepper Salad is a bright, tangy, and refreshing dish inspired by classic Mediterranean flavors. Crisp cucumbers, sweet bell peppers, and sharp onions are lightly pickled in a zesty vinegar dressing infused with olive oil, herbs, and garlic. It’s perfect as a side salad, mezze platter addition, or healthy topping for grilled meats, fish, or wraps. Best of all, it comes together quickly and tastes even better as it sits.
Preparation Time
Prep: 10 minutes
Pickling/Resting: 30 minutes–2 hours
Total: 40 minutes–2 hours 10 minutes
Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
Vegetables
2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
1 large bell pepper (red, yellow, or orange), thinly sliced
Pickling Marinade
½ cup white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar
3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
1 tsp sugar or honey (optional, for balance)
2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced or minced
Mediterranean Seasoning
1 tsp dried oregano
½ tsp dried thyme
½ tsp black pepper
¼ tsp chili flakes (optional)
Optional Add-Ins
¼ cup fresh parsley or dill, chopped
¼ cup sliced olives (green or Kalamata)
2 tbsp crumbled feta (add just before serving)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Thinly slice the cucumbers, onion, and bell pepper. Try to keep slices even so they pickle uniformly. Place everything in a large mixing bowl or glass jar.
Step 2: Make the Pickling Marinade
In a small bowl, whisk together vinegar, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, sugar (if using), garlic, oregano, thyme, black pepper, and chili flakes.
Step 3: Combine & Massage
Pour the marinade over the vegetables. Using clean hands or tongs, gently toss and lightly massage the vegetables for 1–2 minutes. This helps release moisture and absorb flavor faster.
Step 4: Rest & Pickle
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes for a light pickle, or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor. Stir once halfway through.
Step 5: Finish & Serve
Before serving, taste and adjust salt or acidity. Add fresh herbs, olives, or feta if desired. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
How It Works
Vinegar & lemon juice lightly pickle the vegetables, enhancing crunch and freshness
Olive oil smooths the acidity and adds Mediterranean richness
Herbs & garlic infuse bold, aromatic flavor without overpowering
Serving Suggestions
As a side dish with grilled chicken, fish, or kebabs
Spoon over hummus or labneh
Stuff into pita wraps or sandwiches
Serve alongside rice bowls or mezze platters
Storage
Store in an airtight glass container in the refrigerator
Keeps well for 3–4 days
Flavor intensifies over time
Final Thoughts
This Mediterranean Pickled Cucumber, Onion & Bell Pepper Salad is a simple yet powerful way to add brightness and crunch to any meal. Light, healthy, and incredibly versatile, it’s one of those recipes you’ll find yourself making again and again—especially during warm weather 🌞🥗