Enjoy a burst of freshness with this easy and nutritious Fresh Summer Zucchini Salad. Perfect for hot summer days, this salad combines thinly sliced zucchini, ripe tomatoes, and crisp peppers, all drizzled with a flavorful garlic-herb sauce.
What’s more, this recipe requires no cooking, making it a convenient and healthy option for any meal. The combination of lemon juice, fresh herbs, and a hint of sweetness from sugar or honey creates a delightful blend of flavors that will leave you refreshed and satisfied. Enjoy this light and vibrant dish as a side or a main course during the summer months.
Ingredients:
- 2-3 zucchini, thinly sliced and left to steep for 15 minutes with salt
- 3 large tomatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 pepper, thinly sliced
- 5-6 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh coriander, chopped
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt to taste
- 1 teaspoon sugar or honey
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- Black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Directions:
- After letting the zucchini slices steep in salt for 15 minutes, rinse and drain them.
- In a blender or mixer, combine the minced garlic, chopped coriander, chopped parsley, salt, sugar or honey, lemon juice, black pepper, and olive oil. Blend until smooth to make the sauce.
- Lay out the zucchini, tomato, and pepper slices in layers on a serving dish.
- Pour the prepared sauce over the layered vegetables.
- Allow the salad to sit for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Steep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 80 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Nutritional Benefits
This Fresh Summer Zucchini Salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Zucchini is a low-calorie vegetable that is high in vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber, which are essential for maintaining a healthy body. Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, an antioxidant known for its cancer-fighting properties, and provide vitamins C and K. Peppers add a dose of vitamin C and antioxidants to the mix, while fresh herbs like coriander and parsley contribute additional vitamins and minerals, along with their unique flavors.
Dietary Information
This salad is vegan and vegetarian-friendly, making it a versatile option for various dietary preferences. It’s naturally gluten-free, and with the use of olive oil and fresh ingredients, it’s also suitable for those following a paleo or whole30 diet. The salad is low in calories, making it a great choice for those looking to maintain a healthy weight without compromising on flavor.
Cooking Tips
- Zucchini Preparation: To remove excess moisture from the zucchini, let the slices steep in salt for 15 minutes. This step helps in drawing out the water, ensuring the salad doesn’t become soggy.
- Layering the Vegetables: For an appealing presentation, layer the zucchini, tomatoes, and peppers neatly on the serving dish. This not only looks beautiful but also ensures that each bite is a perfect blend of flavors.
- Sauce Blending: Make sure to blend the sauce ingredients until smooth. This creates a uniform consistency that coats the vegetables evenly, enhancing the overall flavor.
Storage Tips
While this salad is best enjoyed fresh, it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a day. If you plan to store it, keep the sauce separate and mix it with the vegetables just before serving to maintain the salad’s crispness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With a total preparation time of just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy summer days.
- Healthy and Refreshing: Packed with fresh vegetables and herbs, this salad is both nutritious and refreshing.
- Versatile: Serve it as a side dish at barbecues, as a light lunch, or as a refreshing starter for dinner.
- No Cooking Required: Perfect for hot days when you want to avoid turning on the stove or oven.
Conclusion
The Fresh Summer Zucchini Salad is a delightful and refreshing dish that captures the essence of summer. Its vibrant colors and flavors make it a standout addition to any meal. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or simply looking for a quick and healthy dish, this salad is sure to impress. Enjoy the ease and deliciousness of this recipe, and don’t forget to share it with your friends and family!