Shaved Zucchini Salad with Lemon, Goat Cheese, and Toasted Pine Nuts Recipe
This shaved zucchini salad is a light and refreshing side dish featuring thinly shaved zucchini ribbons tossed with lemon zest and juice, extra virgin olive oil, kosher salt, and freshly ground pepper. It’s garnished with toasted pine nuts, creamy goat cheese, and fresh microgreens for a perfect blend of textures and flavors, ideal for a healthy, elegant accompaniment to any meal.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dishes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Salad
- 3 medium zucchini
- Zest from one lemon
- Juice from one lemon
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground pepper
Toppings
- ¼ cup pine nuts
- 2 ounces goat cheese
- ¼ cup microgreens
Instructions
- Shave the zucchini: Using a vegetable peeler or a mandoline set to 1/8 inch, finely shave the zucchini into thin ribbons to create the base of the salad.
- Combine and marinate: In a large bowl, gently toss the zucchini ribbons with lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, kosher salt, and freshly ground pepper. Toss lightly to avoid breaking the delicate ribbons and let them marinate for 10 minutes to soften and absorb the flavors.
- Shape the salad: Transfer the marinated zucchini to a bowl or plate and twist the strands to form circular shapes, enhancing the presentation of the salad.
- Toast pine nuts: Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and toast the pine nuts for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until they are golden brown and fragrant.
- Assemble and serve: Top the zucchini salad with the toasted pine nuts, crumbled goat cheese, and fresh microgreens. Serve immediately for a fresh and luscious side dish.
Notes
- Use a mandoline for uniform zucchini ribbons if you have one for a professional look.
- Be gentle when tossing the zucchini to keep the ribbons intact.
- Toast pine nuts carefully to prevent burning and develop a nutty flavor.
- This salad can be served as a side with grilled meats or fish, or enjoyed as a light vegetarian dish.
- Substitute goat cheese with feta or ricotta salata for different flavor profiles.
