Skip to main content

Sweet pepper and Onion Salad

This vibrant sweet pepper and red onion salad is a celebration of fresh, seasonal produce and bright Mediterranean flavours. By allowing the thinly sliced peppers to macerate in a sharp Sherry vinegar, they soften beautifully while retaining a satisfying crunch. The combination of colourful orange or yellow peppers makes this a visually stunning addition to any table, offering a natural sweetness that balances the piquancy of the red onion.

As a versatile vegan side dish, this salad is an excellent accompaniment to grilled vegetables, crusty sourdough, or part of a larger summer spread. Packed with a fragrant medley of fresh mint, basil, parsley, and chives, it provides a refreshing burst of garden-fresh flavour. It is a light, healthy, and hydrating option that is as simple to prepare as it is delicious to eat.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Sweet pepper and Onion Salad

  • 675g orange or yellow peppers (about 4) or sweet orange peppers (about 6), thinly sliced into rings

  • 1 small torpedo or red onion, thinly sliced into rings

  • 2 tablespoons Sherry vinegar or red wine vinegar

  • Kosher salt, freshly ground pepper

  • 1/4 cup coarsely chopped fresh basil

  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives

  • 1/4 cup coarsely chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley

  • 1/4 cup coarsely chopped fresh mint

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

How to make Sweet pepper and Onion Salad

Toss peppers, onion, and vinegar in a large bowl; season with salt and black pepper.

Let sit until peppers are slightly softened, 10–20 minutes. Just before serving, toss herbs and oil with pepper mixture.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
flu eligibility checker

Ask, share, connect.

Browse discussions, ask questions, and share experiences across hundreds of health topics.

symptom checker

Feeling unwell?

Assess your symptoms online for free

Sign up to the Patient newsletter

Your weekly dose of clear, trustworthy health advice - written to help you feel informed, confident and in control.

Please enter a valid email address

By subscribing you accept our Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time. We never sell your data.