A light and refreshing salad featuring delicate ribbons of fresh zucchini tossed in a bright lemon-olive oil dressing, finished with shaved Parmesan, toasted pine nuts, and fragrant basil. This elegant side dish offers crisp textures and vibrant flavors that celebrate the best of summer produce.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This zucchini ribbon salad is effortlessly elegant and requires minimal prep, making it ideal for casual weeknight meals and special gatherings alike. The combination of tender zucchini ribbons with a bright citrus dressing provides a refreshing contrast to heavier mains, while Parmesan and pine nuts add subtle richness and crunch. It is naturally gluten-free, low in carbohydrates, and customizable to suit your taste or pantry staples.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

3 medium zucchini, washed and trimmed
Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons)
3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
¼ cup shaved Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons pine nuts, lightly toasted
A handful of fresh basil leaves, torn
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Directions

Using a vegetable peeler, slice each zucchini lengthwise into thin ribbon-like strips.
Place the zucchini ribbons in a large bowl, season lightly with salt, and let rest for 5 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
Meanwhile, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, and a pinch of pepper in a small bowl.
Gently pat the zucchini ribbons dry with paper towels and transfer them to a serving platter or shallow bowl.
Drizzle the lemon-olive oil dressing over the ribbons and toss carefully to coat without breaking the ribbons.
Sprinkle the shaved Parmesan, toasted pine nuts, and torn basil leaves over the top.
Serve immediately, or cover and chill briefly (up to 10 minutes) before serving for a cooler presentation.

Servings and timing

Serves: 4 as a side dish
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Resting time (to draw moisture): 5 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

Add halved cherry tomatoes or thinly sliced radishes for color and sweetness.
Substitute arugula or baby spinach for half of the zucchini ribbons for a leafy green element.
Use crumbled feta or goat cheese in place of Parmesan for a tangier finish.
Incorporate fresh mint or dill along with basil for a more herbaceous profile.
Swap pine nuts for slivered almonds, chopped walnuts, or pumpkin seeds based on your preference.

Storage/reheating

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one day. The zucchini will soften over time, so it is best enjoyed shortly after preparation. Reheating is not recommended, as the salad is intended to be served cold or at room temperature. If assembled in advance, drain any accumulated liquid and gently re-toss with fresh lemon juice and olive oil before serving.

FAQs

What is the best tool to create even zucchini ribbons?

A vegetable peeler yields uniform, delicate ribbons without removing too much flesh. A mandoline with a wide blade can also be used, but take care to adjust the thickness setting and use a guard for safety.

How can I prevent the zucchini from becoming soggy?

Salting the zucchini ribbons and letting them rest for about 5 minutes helps draw out excess moisture. After salting, gently pat them dry with paper towels before dressing to preserve crispness.

Can I substitute pine nuts with another nut or seed?

Yes. Slivered almonds, chopped walnuts, or toasted pumpkin seeds all provide a pleasant crunch and nutty flavor. Adjust quantities to taste, as different nuts have varying intensities.

Is it necessary to salt the zucchini before adding the dressing?

While optional, light salting enhances flavor and helps remove excess water, ensuring a more concentrated dressing coating and preventing a watery salad.

Can I prepare this salad in advance?

You may prepare the zucchini ribbons and dressing separately up to one hour ahead. Store them in sealed containers in the refrigerator, then assemble just before serving to maintain optimum texture and flavor.

What are some alternative cheeses I can use if I don’t have Parmesan?

Crumbled feta, goat cheese, or ricotta salata can all add a creamy, tangy element. Choose a cheese that complements the lemony dressing without overwhelming the delicate zucchini.

Can I add other vegetables to this salad?

Yes. Thinly sliced radishes, cucumber ribbons, or halved cherry tomatoes make excellent additions. Just ensure any added vegetables are sliced thinly to match the zucchini ribbons’ texture.

How long will the salad keep in the refrigerator?

Stored in an airtight container, the salad is best consumed within 24 hours. After that, the zucchini may release too much liquid and lose its crispness.

Is this salad suitable for a low-carb or keto diet?

Zucchini is very low in carbohydrates, making this salad an excellent choice for low-carb or ketogenic meal plans. Simply ensure any added ingredients (such as tomatoes) align with your dietary goals.

Can I double the recipe for a larger gathering?

Absolutely. The ingredients scale linearly—simply double or triple the quantities as needed, and toss the salad in a sufficiently large bowl to ensure even coating with dressing.

Conclusion

This zucchini ribbon salad exemplifies the beauty of simple, fresh ingredients working in harmony. Its quick preparation and adaptable nature make it a standout side dish for any occasion. Whether served alongside grilled meats, seafood, or as part of a light vegetarian spread, it delivers bright flavors, pleasing textures, and effortless elegance. Enjoy this vibrant salad as a celebration of seasonal produce and uncomplicated, nourishing cooking