Go Back
In recent years, fresh and vibrant salads have taken center stage in contemporary cuisine, catering to a growing demand for healthy yet exciting meal options. Among these, the Zucchini Ribbon Salad stands out as a refreshing and nutritious choice, perfect for various occasions, from casual lunches to elegant dinner parties. This salad showcases the beauty of fresh ingredients, featuring crisp zucchini, colorful vegetables, creamy feta cheese, and a bright citrus vinaigrette that elevates the dish to something truly special.

Zucchini Ribbon Salad

Discover the vibrant flavors of Zucchini Ribbon Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette, a refreshing and nutritious dish perfect for any occasion. This salad features delicate zucchini ribbons, colorful veggies, and creamy feta, all tossed in a zesty citrus dressing. Not only is it a feast for the eyes, but each ingredient delivers essential nutrients, making it a healthy choice for lunch or dinner. Easy to prepare and visually stunning, this salad is sure to impress guests and satisfy your cravings for something light and delicious.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

2 medium zucchinis, thoroughly washed and trimmed at the ends

1 medium carrot, peeled and ready for slicing

1 cup cherry tomatoes, cut in half

1/4 red onion, very thinly sliced

1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled into small pieces

1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped to release aroma

1/4 cup toasted pine nuts for garnish and crunch

For the Citrus Vinaigrette:

3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil for richness

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice for brightness

1 tablespoon fresh orange juice for sweetness

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard for a hint of sharpness

Salt and black pepper to taste, adjusting to your preference

Instructions
 

Prepare the Zucchini Ribbons: Using a vegetable peeler or a mandoline slicer, create long, thin ribbons from the zucchinis. As you slice, collect the ribbons in a large mixing bowl. This will be the foundation of your salad.

    Add Carrot Ribbons: Following a similar technique, slice the peeled carrot into long, elegant ribbons and add them to the bowl with the zucchini ribbons.

      Incorporate Other Ingredients: Gently fold in the halved cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped fresh basil into the bowl of zucchini and carrot ribbons. Take care to mix without breaking up the zucchini.

        Make the Citrus Vinaigrette: In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, fresh orange juice, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Whisk until the mixture is well combined and emulsified for a smooth dressing.

          Combine the Salad: Drizzle the prepared citrus vinaigrette over the salad mixture. Toss everything together gently, ensuring that each ingredient is well coated with the dressing.

            Finish with Pine Nuts: Just before serving, sprinkle the toasted pine nuts generously over the salad. This adds a delightful crunch and a nutty flavor that perfectly complements the freshness of the veggies.

              Serve and Enjoy: This vibrant salad can be enjoyed immediately for a fresh crunch or, for optimal flavor blending, allow it to rest in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 15 minutes | Serves 4

                  - Presentation Tips: Serve the salad in wide, shallow bowls or a platter for a beautiful display, and consider garnishing with a few extra basil leaves or a light drizzle of olive oil for an elegant finishing touch.