Refreshing Zucchini and Squash Ribbon Salad with Lemon Dressing

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Looking for a light and refreshing salad that celebrates the flavors of summer? This Zucchini and Squash Ribbon Salad is a vibrant dish that showcases tender ribbons of zucchini and squash, tossed in a zesty lemon dressing. It’s the perfect side for barbecues, picnics, or a healthy lunch.

The combination of fresh vegetables and bright lemon creates a delightful contrast, making each bite a burst of flavor. This salad is not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients, making it a guilt-free indulgence.

Whether you’re a salad lover or just looking to incorporate more vegetables into your meals, this recipe will quickly become a favorite. It’s simple, easy to prepare, and downright delicious!

A Delightful Summer Salad

This Zucchini and Squash Ribbon Salad embodies the spirit of summer with its crisp, tangy notes. The vibrant colors of pale green and sunny yellow ribbons create an eye-catching dish that is as pleasing to the palate as it is to the eyes.

Featuring thinly sliced ribbons of zucchini and squash, this salad offers a refreshing crunch. The addition of cherry tomatoes brings a burst of sweetness, while the fresh basil leaves add a fragrant touch that enhances the overall flavor profile.

Fresh Ingredients for a Healthy Meal

The simplicity of the ingredients highlights the natural flavors. Two medium zucchinis and two medium yellow squashes transform into elegant ribbons, showcasing the beauty of fresh produce. Halved cherry tomatoes and thinly sliced red onions provide additional layers of taste and texture.

Incorporating fresh basil not only adds flavor but also a pop of color. The combination of these ingredients ensures each bite is both satisfying and nutritious.

Lemon Dressing: The Perfect Finishing Touch

The zesty lemon dressing ties the salad together, adding a bright tang that complements the sweetness of the vegetables. Made with olive oil, lemon juice, and a hint of honey or maple syrup, this dressing is simple yet effective.

A sprinkle of salt and pepper enhances the flavors, making this dressing an essential element. Tossed with the salad just before serving, it ensures that every ribbon and cherry tomato is coated in deliciousness.

Serving Suggestions

This salad shines as a side dish at barbecues and picnics but can also hold its own as a light lunch. For added richness, a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese can elevate the dish, providing a creamy contrast to the fresh ingredients.

Serve it immediately for the best texture, and enjoy the delightful mix of flavors that this salad brings to the table.

Nutrition and Health Benefits

With just 120 calories per serving, this salad is a guilt-free option packed with nutrients. The zucchini and squash provide fiber, while the tomatoes contribute vitamins and antioxidants.

Rich in healthy fats from olive oil, this dish promotes heart health. It’s a refreshing way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet while enjoying a light, flavorful meal.

Easy Preparation in Minutes

Preparing this salad is a breeze, taking only 15 minutes from start to finish. Using a vegetable peeler or mandoline to shave the zucchini and squash into ribbons makes the process quick and effortless.

Combining the ingredients and tossing them in the lemon dressing is all it takes to create a visually stunning and refreshing salad that is sure to impress guests or provide a simple weeknight meal.

A Delightful Summer Salad

This Zucchini and Squash Ribbon Salad is crisp, tangy, and refreshing, featuring thinly sliced ribbons of zucchini and squash, tossed with a bright lemon dressing. The taste is a perfect balance of tartness from the lemon and sweetness from the vegetables, making it a delightful addition to any meal.

Ingredients

• 2 medium zucchinis, shaved into ribbons
• 2 medium yellow squashes, shaved into ribbons
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Using a vegetable peeler or mandoline, shave the zucchini and yellow squash into long ribbons. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
2. Add Other Ingredients: Add the halved cherry tomatoes, sliced red onion, and torn basil leaves to the bowl with the zucchini and squash.
3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Combine: Pour the lemon dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
5. Serve: Transfer the salad to a serving platter and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy immediately!

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes

• Servings: 4
• Calories: 120kcal
• Fat: 10g
• Protein: 2g
• Carbohydrates: 8g