Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This salad is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. With its combination of crisp cucumbers, bell peppers, and the tangy kick of pepperoncini, it offers a refreshing taste that’s perfect for warm days. The addition of hard-boiled eggs and sunflower seeds provides protein and healthy fats, making it a balanced meal. Plus, the homemade dressing allows you to control the flavors and ingredients to suit your preferences.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 4 hard-boiled eggs, peeled and chopped
- 2 cucumbers, peeled and diced
- 2 green bell peppers, diced
- ½ red onion, finely diced
- ½ cup sliced pepperoncini peppers
- ¼ cup roasted sunflower kernels
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Zesty Italian Dressing:
- ¾ cup extra virgin olive oil
- ¼ cup red wine vinegar
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
Directions
- In a small bowl or jar, combine all the dressing ingredients and mix well.
- In a large bowl, add the chopped eggs, cucumbers, bell peppers, red onion, pepperoncini peppers, and sunflower kernels.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad ingredients.
- Toss everything together until well combined.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for later use.
Servings and Timing
This recipe yields approximately 4 to 5 servings. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, with no cooking required if the eggs are pre-boiled.
Variations
- Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for extra protein.
- Cheese Addition: Sprinkle feta or goat cheese for a creamy texture.
- Grain Inclusion: Mix in cooked quinoa or couscous for added fiber.
- Spice Level: Adjust the red pepper flakes to control the heat.
- Vegetable Swap: Use red or yellow bell peppers for a sweeter flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Meal Prep: Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to maintain the salad’s crunchiness.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the fresh vegetables may become soggy upon thawing.
FAQs
What is the origin of the Hot Girl Summer Salad?
The Hot Girl Summer Salad originated from TikTok user @herdresscode, who shared this recipe as part of her weight loss journey. It quickly gained popularity for its simplicity and flavor.
Can I use store-bought dressing instead of homemade?
Yes, a store-bought zesty Italian dressing can be used as a convenient alternative. However, making it from scratch allows for better control over the ingredients and flavor.
Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?
Absolutely. This salad is vegetarian-friendly and can be made vegan by omitting the eggs or substituting them with a plant-based alternative.
How can I make this salad more filling?
Adding a protein source like grilled chicken, tofu, or legumes can make the salad more substantial and satisfying.
Are there any nut-free alternatives to sunflower seeds?
Yes, roasted pumpkin seeds or chopped roasted chickpeas can provide a similar crunch without nuts.
Can I prepare this salad in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and store them separately. Combine and dress the salad just before serving to maintain freshness.
What other vegetables can I add to this salad?
Feel free to include cherry tomatoes, shredded carrots, or chopped celery for added variety and nutrition.
How do I prevent the salad from becoming soggy?
To keep the salad crisp, store the dressing separately and add it just before serving.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free. However, always check labels on store-bought items to ensure they are certified gluten-free.
Can I use different types of vinegar in the dressing?
Certainly. While red wine vinegar is traditional, white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar can also be used for a different flavor profile.
Conclusion
The Hot Girl Summer Salad is a delightful combination of fresh vegetables, protein, and a tangy dressing that makes for a perfect meal or side dish during warmer months. Its popularity on social media is well-deserved, thanks to its simplicity, flavor, and versatility. Whether you’re looking to eat healthier or just want a tasty salad, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Print
Summer Salad
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Hot Girl Summer Salad is a crunchy, refreshing, and flavorful TikTok-famous recipe packed with fresh vegetables, hard-boiled eggs, and a zesty homemade Italian dressing. Perfect for light lunches, meal prep, or a healthy side dish, it’s vibrant, nutritious, and easy to customize.
Ingredients
4 hard-boiled eggs, peeled and chopped
2 cucumbers, peeled and diced
2 green bell peppers, diced
½ red onion, finely diced
½ cup sliced pepperoncini peppers
¼ cup roasted sunflower kernels
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Zesty Italian Dressing:
¾ cup extra virgin olive oil
¼ cup red wine vinegar
2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
Instructions
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Whisk together all dressing ingredients until well combined.
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In a large bowl, add chopped eggs, cucumbers, bell peppers, red onion, pepperoncini peppers, and sunflower kernels.
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Drizzle dressing over the salad ingredients.
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Toss everything together until evenly coated.
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Serve immediately or refrigerate for later.
Notes
Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a protein boost.
Sprinkle with feta or goat cheese for extra creaminess.
Mix in cooked quinoa or couscous for a heartier meal.
Adjust the spice level by changing the amount of red pepper flakes.
Keep dressing separate if prepping ahead to maintain crispness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad, Lunch, Side Dish
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
