May 30, 2024

Quick and Delicious: The Best Zucchini Ribbon Salad Recipe

 zucchini ribbon salad

Our zucchini plants are starting to really grow! Which has my gears turning on what I'm going to do with all my zucchinis once they are ready to harvest. We love incorporating zucchini into our weekly menu plan, but we often struggle to use it as fast as it grows. Can you relate? Today's recipe is definitely one worth adding to the mix! Pick those zucchinis while they are small, and make this flavor-packed Zucchini Ribbon salad! 

Zucchini Ribbon Salad Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 3-4 small zucchini or summer squash
  • 2 teaspoons olive oil
  • 1/2 lemon
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 oz. Parmesan cheese
  • 2-3 Tbsp. slivered almonds

Directions: 

  • Use a vegetable peeler to shave long strips of zucchini from one end to the other.
  • Rotate the zucchini as you shave until you get to the seeds at the core.
  • Discard the core and repeat with each zucchini.
  • Use a vegetable peeler to shave strips of Parmesan from a cheese wedge.
  • Place the zucchini and Parmesan in a medium bowl; drizzle with olive oil, toss lightly.
  • Squeeze ½ lemon over top, and season with salt and pepper.
  • Top with slivered almonds.

zucchini ribbon salad recipe

Interesting Facts About Zucchini

While you're cooking with Zucchini, it's a great chance to learn more about it!

Here are some interesting facts about zucchini:

  1. Botanical Classification: Zucchini belongs to the species Cucurbita pepo, which also includes other squashes and pumpkins.
  2. Origin: Zucchini has its roots in the Americas but became popular in Italy. The word "zucchini" is Italian, and in North America, it's often referred to as a type of summer squash.
  3. Harvest Time: Zucchinis are typically harvested when they are young and tender, usually at around 6 to 8 inches in length.
  4. Varieties: There are various varieties of zucchini, including green, yellow, and striped. Each has a slightly different flavor and texture.
  5. Nutrient-Rich: Zucchini is a good source of vitamins C and A, potassium, folate, and fiber. It's low in calories, making it a healthy addition to meals.
  6. Versatile in Cooking: Zucchini can be enjoyed in various culinary applications, such as grilling, sautéing, roasting, or even spiralizing to create "zoodles" (zucchini noodles).
  7. High Water Content: Zucchinis have a high water content, which contributes to their crisp and refreshing texture.
  8. Edible Flowers: The flowers of the zucchini plant are edible and can be used in cooking. They are often stuffed or used as a decorative element in salads.
  9. Rapid Growth: Zucchini plants are known for their rapid growth. Under ideal conditions, they can produce a considerable number of fruits in a short period.
  10. Companion Plant: Zucchini is often used as a companion plant in gardens, as it can help repel certain pests that might affect nearby crops.
  11. Popular Ingredient in Various Cuisines: Zucchini is used in a wide range of dishes worldwide, from Mediterranean ratatouille to Italian pasta dishes, and it's a popular ingredient in vegetarian and low-carb recipes.

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