Hot Girl Summer Salad

Hot Girl Summer Salad is a fresh, flavorful, and feel-good dish that’s taken over social media for good reason. Packed with crunchy cucumbers, crisp bell peppers, tangy banana peppers, and a zesty homemade dressing, this salad is all about vibrant flavors and satisfying textures. It’s the perfect blend of health-conscious ingredients and bold taste, designed to fuel you through sunny days and confident vibes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad is light yet filling, hydrating, and full of flavor. It’s incredibly easy to throw together and doesn’t require any cooking, making it perfect for hot days or quick meals. With low calories, high crunch, and tons of flavor, it’s a go-to for anyone who wants to eat clean without sacrificing taste. It’s also easily customizable to fit different diets—vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, and low-carb.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• English cucumber, diced
• Bell pepper (any color), chopped
• Red onion, finely diced
• Banana peppers (jarred), sliced
• Cherry tomatoes, halved
• Feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
• Olive oil
• Red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar
• Dijon mustard
• Garlic powder
• Dried oregano
• Salt and pepper
• Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

directions

1. Chop the cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, and cherry tomatoes into bite-sized pieces.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped vegetables with sliced banana peppers.
3. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, oregano, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to create the dressing.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to coat everything evenly.
5. Add crumbled feta on top, if using, and toss again just before serving.
6. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 2 as a main or 4 as a side.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Total time: 10 minutes

Variations

• Add Protein: Top with grilled chicken, tuna, or chickpeas for a heartier meal.
• Make It Vegan: Omit the feta or replace with a dairy-free alternative.
• Add Avocado: For healthy fats and creaminess.
• Switch the Peppers: Use jalapeños for more heat or roasted red peppers for sweetness.
• Crunch Boost: Add sunflower seeds or roasted chickpeas for extra texture.

storage/reheating

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Because the vegetables are sturdy, the salad holds up well even after dressing, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. If making ahead, consider storing the dressing separately and tossing just before serving.

No reheating is needed—this is a cold, refreshing salad.

FAQs

What is a Hot Girl Summer Salad?

It’s a trendy, feel-good salad made popular on TikTok and social media—filled with fresh, crunchy veggies, bold flavors, and usually a tangy vinaigrette.

Is this salad healthy?

Yes, it’s low in calories, high in fiber and nutrients, and packed with hydrating vegetables.

Can I meal prep this salad?

Absolutely. Just store the dressing separately to keep everything crisp until you’re ready to eat.

What’s the best cucumber to use?

English or Persian cucumbers are best—they’re seedless and have thin, edible skin.

Can I make it spicy?

Yes, add crushed red pepper flakes, jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.

Is feta necessary?

No, it’s optional. It adds creaminess and saltiness, but the salad is still delicious without it.

How long will it last in the fridge?

Up to 2 days. After that, the vegetables start to lose their crunch.

Can I use other dressings?

Yes, balsamic vinaigrette, lemon-herb dressing, or even a creamy dressing works if you prefer.

Is it good for weight loss?

It’s low in calories and high in volume, making it a great choice for anyone looking to eat lighter.

Can I eat this as a main meal?

Definitely. Just add some protein or a grain like quinoa to make it more filling.

Conclusion

Hot Girl Summer Salad is the ultimate easy, energizing dish for warm weather and beyond. It’s quick to prep, full of crunch and flavor, and endlessly adaptable to your taste. Whether you’re enjoying it as a side or a main, this salad keeps things light, bold, and totally on-trend. It’s more than a meal—it’s a mood.

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