Refreshing Zucchini Noodle Salad (Printable)
Crisp spiralized zucchini with fresh vegetables and zesty citrus dressing. Ready in 20 minutes.
# What You'll Need:
→ Vegetables
01 - 3 medium zucchinis, spiralized
02 - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
03 - 1/2 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
04 - 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
05 - 1/2 cup shredded carrots
06 - 2 tablespoons fresh basil leaves, chopped
07 - 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves, chopped
→ Citrus Dressing
08 - 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
09 - 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
10 - 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
11 - 1 teaspoon honey or agave syrup
12 - 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
13 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
→ Toppings (optional)
14 - 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (omit for vegan version)
15 - 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds
# Directions:
01 - In a large mixing bowl, combine the spiralized zucchini noodles, halved cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red bell pepper, thinly sliced red onion, shredded carrots, chopped basil, and chopped mint.
02 - In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, fresh lime juice, honey or agave syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and freshly ground black pepper until the dressing is well emulsified.
03 - Pour the citrus dressing over the vegetable mixture and toss gently using salad tongs until all the vegetables are evenly coated.
04 - Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds over the top, if using, and toss lightly to distribute.
05 - Serve immediately for the freshest texture and flavor, or refrigerate for up to 1 hour before serving. Serve chilled for best results.
# Expert Tips:
01 -
- Zero cooking means your kitchen stays cool and cleanup takes about five minutes flat.
- The double citrus trick with both lemon and lime makes everything taste brighter than you expect.
02 -
- Salt your zucchini noodles lightly and let them sit five minutes then pat dry or you will end up with a puddle at the bottom of the bowl.
- This salad is best eaten the day it is made because the noodles release water overnight and lose their satisfying bite.
03 -
- Use the thinnest blade on your spiralizer for a texture that mimics angel hair pasta and holds dressing beautifully.
- A squeeze of lime juice right before serving wakes up all the flavors even if the salad has been sitting for a while.