Print

Fresh Zucchini Ribbon Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette

fresh zucchini ribbon salad - featured image
Print Recipe

A light, crisp, and refreshing zucchini ribbon salad tossed with a bright and tangy citrus vinaigrette, perfect for quick summer meals or gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 medium zucchini (firm, bright green, no soft spots)
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, roughly chopped
  • 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds
  • 1/3 cup shaved Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese (optional)
  • 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 large lemon; Meyer lemons preferred)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 small garlic clove, minced
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Wash and dry the zucchini thoroughly. Trim off the ends.
  2. Using a vegetable peeler, slice the zucchini lengthwise into thin ribbons about 1/8 inch (3 mm) thick, stopping before the seedy core.
  3. Place the zucchini ribbons in a large bowl, sprinkle with a pinch of salt, and gently toss. Let sit for about 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
  4. In a small bowl, combine lemon juice, orange juice, honey, and minced garlic. Slowly whisk in the olive oil until emulsified. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Drain any liquid released by the zucchini by gently squeezing the ribbons with your hands or a clean kitchen towel.
  6. Toss the zucchini ribbons with the citrus vinaigrette until lightly and evenly coated.
  7. Add chopped parsley and toasted pine nuts, tossing gently to combine.
  8. Top with shaved Parmesan cheese just before serving.

Notes

Salt zucchini ribbons and let sit to draw out moisture, then squeeze excess liquid to prevent sogginess. Use freshly squeezed citrus juices for best flavor. Toast nuts lightly for enhanced crunch and flavor. Prepare vinaigrette and nuts ahead to save time. Best served fresh but can be held chilled for a few hours. For vegan version, omit cheese and substitute honey with maple syrup.

Nutrition

Keywords: zucchini salad, fresh salad, citrus vinaigrette, summer salad, easy salad recipe, healthy salad, vegetarian salad, gluten-free salad

Find it online: https://chloeplate.com/fresh-zucchini-ribbon-salad-recipe-easy-citrus-vinaigrette-dressing-tutorial/