If you love fresh, light, and vibrant dishes, you are going to adore this Ribboned Courgette Salad Recipe. It’s a delightful Mediterranean-inspired salad that combines the delicate crunch of thin courgette ribbons with a bright lemony dressing, the nuttiness of toasted pine nuts, and the creamy touch of shaved Parmesan. In just 10 minutes, you get a dish that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious—perfect for warm days or whenever you need a simple yet impressive salad to brighten your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is key to making this Ribboned Courgette Salad Recipe shine. Each element contributes essential flavors and textures, making the salad fresh, balanced, and inviting.
- 2 medium courgettes (zucchini), ends trimmed: Thin, crisp courgette ribbons form the base, offering tender crunch and a mild grassy flavor.
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil: Adds richness and binds the dressing while delivering a fruity Mediterranean aroma.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Provides brightness and zesty freshness that lifts the entire salad.
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup: A touch of natural sweetness balances the acidity of the lemon.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste: Enhances all the flavors, making them pop without overpowering.
- 2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts: Give nutty crunchs and a buttery aftertaste that complements the courgettes perfectly.
- 30g (1 oz) shaved Parmesan or vegan cheese alternative: Adds a creamy, salty layer; vegan options keep it plant-based.
- A handful of fresh basil leaves, torn: Brightens the dish with herbaceous aroma and a burst of color.
How to Make Ribboned Courgette Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Courgette Ribbons
Start by trimming the ends of your courgettes, then use a vegetable peeler or mandoline to create thin, elegant ribbons. These ribbons will be the centerpiece of your salad—light, fresh, and visually beautiful.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a large bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, and honey or maple syrup until the mixture emulsifies into a smooth dressing. Season it with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking—this simple dressing is what brings all the elements together with a lively tang.
Step 3: Toss the Salad
Add the courgette ribbons to the bowl with the dressing and gently toss to ensure every ribbon is evenly coated. Let this mixture sit for 5 to 10 minutes. This resting time allows the courgettes to soften slightly while soaking up the vibrant flavors.
Step 4: Add Finishing Touches
Right before serving, sprinkle the toasted pine nuts and shaved Parmesan or vegan alternative over the top. Scatter fresh torn basil leaves to add an herbal lift and make your salad look as fresh as it tastes.
How to Serve Ribboned Courgette Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Consider garnishing with a few lemon zest curls for an extra burst of citrus aroma or some edible flowers to give your salad a stunning, garden-fresh look that surprises and delights.
Side Dishes
This Ribboned Courgette Salad Recipe pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish for a light yet satisfying summer dinner. It’s equally at home alongside crusty bread or a bowl of chilled gazpacho for a completely refreshing Mediterranean-inspired meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For an elegant presentation, serve the ribboned courgette nestled inside individual bowls or on a large platter arranged with the ribbons fanned out. You can also layer the salad in clear glasses for a chic, layered effect perfect for entertaining guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (though you might not!), store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one day. Because the courgette ribbons soften as they sit, it’s best enjoyed fresh but still tasty when stored briefly.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended for this salad. The courgette’s crisp texture and the fresh dressing do not hold up well after freezing, which can cause the salad to become watery and lose its delightful bite.
Reheating
This salad is designed to be served cold or at room temperature, so reheating is unnecessary. Simply give any leftovers a gentle toss to redistribute the dressing before serving again.
FAQs
Can I use other vegetables instead of courgettes?
Absolutely! Yellow squash or crisp cucumbers can be excellent substitutes and provide a slightly different flavor and texture while keeping the refreshing nature of this salad intact.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes, it is! Simply swap the honey for maple syrup and use a plant-based Parmesan alternative to keep the salad completely vegan without sacrificing any flavor.
How do I toast pine nuts perfectly?
Toast pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently, until golden brown and fragrant. This usually takes just a few minutes but watch carefully—they can burn quickly.
Can I prepare this salad ahead of time for a party?
You can prep the dressing and toasting nuts ahead but combine with courgette ribbons just before serving to keep that fresh, crisp texture that makes this salad so delightful.
What can I add to give the salad a spicy kick?
A pinch of chili flakes sprinkled into the dressing or over the salad just before serving will add a wonderful subtle heat that complements the other flavors beautifully.
Final Thoughts
This Ribboned Courgette Salad Recipe is a quick, refreshing, and utterly delicious way to enjoy seasonal fresh produce with minimal fuss. Whether you’re looking for a simple lunch or a show-stopping side salad, this recipe delivers vibrant flavors and beautiful textures that never disappoint. I warmly encourage you to try it soon and make it a fresh favorite in your kitchen!
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Ribboned Courgette Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Ribboned Courgette Salad is a light and refreshing Mediterranean-inspired dish featuring thin ribbons of courgette dressed in a zesty lemon and honey vinaigrette, topped with toasted pine nuts, shaved Parmesan, and fresh basil. It’s perfect for a quick and healthy summer salad that requires no cooking.
Ingredients
Salad
- 2 medium courgettes (zucchini), ends trimmed
Dressing
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Toppings
- 2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts
- 30g (1 oz) shaved Parmesan or vegan cheese alternative
- A handful of fresh basil leaves, torn
Instructions
- Prepare the courgettes: Use a vegetable peeler or mandoline to slice the courgettes into thin ribbons, creating delicate and uniform strips that will absorb the dressing well.
- Make the dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, and honey until the mixture is emulsified and smooth. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Toss the salad: Add the courgette ribbons to the bowl with the dressing and gently toss to ensure all ribbons are evenly coated without breaking them.
- Let flavors meld: Allow the salad to sit for 5 to 10 minutes at room temperature, letting the courgettes absorb the dressing and the flavors blend beautifully.
- Add toppings and serve: Just before serving, sprinkle the toasted pine nuts, shaved Parmesan (or vegan alternative), and torn fresh basil leaves over the salad. Serve immediately for the best texture and freshness.
Notes
- Substitute courgettes with yellow squash or cucumber for a variation in flavor and texture.
- For a vegan version, use maple syrup instead of honey and a plant-based Parmesan alternative.
- Add a pinch of chili flakes to the dressing for a subtle spicy kick.
