Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Hot Girl Summer Salad is a vibrant, refreshing, and nourishing dish that went viral for a reason—it’s easy to make, packed with crunchy textures, and full of zesty flavor. With simple ingredients like cucumbers, bell peppers, and tangy Italian dressing, it’s the perfect light meal or side for warm weather. This salad is low-effort, high-reward, and ideal for meal prep or picnics.

ingredients

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

cucumbergreen bell pepperred bell pepperred onionchickpeas (canned and drained)banana pepper ringsItalian dressingsaltblack peppercrushed red pepper flakesparmesan cheesefresh lemon juice

directions

Dice the cucumber, green and red bell peppers, and red onion into small, even pieces.

Add the chopped vegetables to a large mixing bowl.

Rinse and drain the chickpeas and add them to the bowl.

Add a handful of banana pepper rings, roughly chopped if desired.

Pour in Italian dressing to taste and toss everything together.

Season with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.

Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness.

Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and toss again to combine.

Chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving for best flavor.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 4-6 servings.Preparation time: 15 minutesChilling time: 30 minutesTotal time: 45 minutes

Variations

Add grilled chicken or tofu for extra protein.

Use feta cheese instead of Parmesan for a Mediterranean twist.

Swap chickpeas for black beans or kidney beans.

Mix in cherry tomatoes or avocado for added freshness.

Use a homemade vinaigrette for a personal touch.

storage/reheating

Store Hot Girl Summer Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Do not freeze this salad, as the fresh vegetables will lose their texture.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, it’s actually better when chilled and allowed to marinate for a few hours.

Is this salad spicy?

Only mildly—crushed red pepper adds a gentle kick, but you can skip it if sensitive.

Can I use other beans?

Absolutely—any canned beans work well in this salad.

Is it vegan?

Yes, just use vegan Parmesan or omit the cheese entirely.

Can I use other dressings?

Sure—balsamic vinaigrette, lemon tahini, or even ranch work great.

Does it work as a meal?

Yes, especially if you add a protein like grilled chicken or beans.

Is this good for weight loss?

It’s low in calories and high in fiber, making it a great option for healthy eating.

Do the veggies get soggy?

They stay crisp for a couple of days; storing without dressing can extend freshness.

Can I use pre-chopped veggies?

Yes, it will save time and still taste delicious.

How do I make it more filling?

Add quinoa, pasta, or a grain base for a more satisfying meal.

Conclusion

Hot Girl Summer Salad is the ultimate easy, healthy, and crave-worthy dish to keep you cool and energized. With its crisp veggies, zesty dressing, and customizable options, it’s a go-to for sunny days and busy weeks alike. Whip up a big bowl and enjoy all summer long.