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15-Minute Zucchini Ribbons Salad

Fresh zucchini ribbons tossed with dill, goat cheese, pine nuts, and a zesty lemon-honey dressing make a quick, protein-rich, and fiber-filled salad perfect for any meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 0 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine American, Vegetarian
Servings 4

Equipment

  • 1 Swivel peeler (or Y-peeler/sharp knife)
  • 2 mixing bowls
  • 1 Small whisk
  • 1 Measuring spoons set
  • 4 Serving plates

Ingredients
  

For the Salad:

  • 2 medium zucchini
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
  • ¼ cup pine nuts
  • ½ cup crumbled goat cheese

For the Dressing:

  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice from half a large lemon
  • 1 tsp honey
  • ¼ tsp kosher salt
  • ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Zucchini Ribbons: Trim the ends of each zucchini, then use a swivel peeler, Y-peeler, or sharp knife to carefully shave thin, even ribbons from top to bottom.
    Rotate the zucchini as needed to reach the center, creating delicate, uniform ribbons while optionally avoiding the seedy core, which can be reserved for smoothies or composting.
  • Assemble the Salad Base: Place the zucchini ribbons into a large mixing bowl, then sprinkle in the freshly chopped dill and toasted pine nuts.
    Gently toss with your hands or tongs to distribute the herbs and nuts evenly, ensuring each ribbon is lightly coated without bruising or breaking the tender vegetable slices.
  • Whisk the Dressing: In a small bowl or measuring cup, combine extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, honey, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
    Use a whisk to vigorously mix until the ingredients form a smooth, well-emulsified dressing that will cling beautifully to the zucchini ribbons.
  • Dress and Serve: Pour the dressing over the zucchini mixture and toss lightly to coat each ribbon evenly.
    Fold in the crumbled goat cheese at the last moment to maintain its creamy texture.
    Transfer the salad onto serving plates, arranging the ribbons attractively, and enjoy immediately for the freshest flavor and crispest texture.

Notes

  • For the crispiest texture, serve the salad immediately after tossing, as zucchini releases water over time.
  • Zucchini seeds in the center can be saved for smoothies or discarded if you prefer a smoother ribbon.
  • Toast pine nuts lightly in a dry skillet for enhanced flavor and crunch.
  • Adjust lemon juice and honey to taste for a sweeter or tangier dressing.
  • Goat cheese can be substituted with feta or a vegan cheese for dietary preferences.