Summer Zucchini Salad: A Light, Refreshing Dish for Hot Days
Summer is the perfect time to enjoy light and vibrant meals, and there’s no better way to cool off than with a fresh Summer Zucchini Salad. Packed with crisp zucchini, juicy tomatoes, and a zesty dressing, this salad isn’t just a side dish – it’s a celebration of summer’s best produce. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing lunch or a healthy BBQ companion, this salad is here to elevate any meal with its delightful crunch and tangy flavors.
Why You’ll Love This Summer Zucchini Salad
This Summer Zucchini Salad is everything you want in a summer dish – crisp, light, and bursting with flavor. The combination of tender zucchini, tangy lemon, and sweet tomatoes brings the freshness of summer straight to your plate. Add in a hint of fresh herbs, and you’ve got a dish that’s not only good for you but also totally crave-worthy.
What makes this salad stand out is its versatility. You can enjoy it as a light lunch, serve it alongside grilled meats, or even use it as a topping for your favorite veggie wraps. It’s an ideal option for those hot days when you crave something cool, crisp, and refreshing.
Ingredients for the Summer Zucchini Salad
- 2 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional for added creaminess)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How to Make Summer Zucchini Salad
1. Prepare the Zucchini
Start by washing and trimming the zucchinis. Slice them thinly into rounds or half-moons, depending on your preference. The thinner the slices, the more flavor they’ll absorb, giving you that perfect burst of freshness with every bite.
2. Combine the Veggies
In a large bowl, combine the thinly sliced zucchini, halved cherry tomatoes, and red onion. You’ll immediately notice the contrast of colors – the bright green zucchini, the rich red tomatoes, and the deep purple of the onions. The colors alone are enough to make you excited about eating it!
3. Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. This simple yet flavorful dressing ties the entire salad together with its tangy and slightly sweet flavor.
4. Toss and Serve
Drizzle the dressing over the zucchini mixture, then toss gently to combine. Sprinkle the salad with crumbled feta cheese and fresh basil for an extra touch of flavor and color. Serve immediately or let it chill in the fridge for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Summer Zucchini Salad
Equipment
- 1 Large bowl For mixing salad
- 1 Knife + board For slicing veggies
- 1 Spatula For tossing salad
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis thinly sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1/4 red onion thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese crumbled (optional for added creaminess)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Prepare the Zucchini
- Start by washing and trimming the zucchinis. Slice them thinly into rounds or half-moons, depending on your preference. The thinner the slices, the more flavor they’ll absorb, giving you that perfect burst of freshness with every bite.
Combine the Veggies
- In a large bowl, combine the thinly sliced zucchini, halved cherry tomatoes, and red onion. You’ll immediately notice the contrast of colors – the bright green zucchini, the rich red tomatoes, and the deep purple of the onions. The colors alone are enough to make you excited about eating it!
Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. This simple yet flavorful dressing ties the entire salad together with its tangy and slightly sweet flavor.
Toss and Serve
- Drizzle the dressing over the zucchini mixture, then toss gently to combine. Sprinkle the salad with crumbled feta cheese and fresh basil for an extra touch of flavor and color. Serve immediately or let it chill in the fridge for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Notes
Why This Summer Zucchini Salad is Perfect for Hot Days
- Light & Refreshing: Packed with fresh veggies, this salad is the perfect dish for hot summer days. Zucchini is naturally hydrating, making it ideal for cooling off.
- Quick & Easy: It comes together in just 10 minutes, making it a breeze to prepare when you’re short on time but want something delicious.
- Nutrient-Rich: Zucchini is high in antioxidants, while tomatoes add a healthy dose of vitamins A and C. The olive oil and lemon dressing provide healthy fats and a burst of fresh flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I add protein to this Summer Zucchini Salad?
Yes! To make this salad a more filling meal, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas. A boiled egg on top also works wonderfully for extra protein.
Can I make this salad in advance?
Absolutely! This salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just add the fresh basil and feta just before serving to maintain their freshness.
What other vegetables can I add to this salad?
Feel free to add other vegetables like cucumbers, bell peppers, or even radishes for extra crunch and flavor. The great thing about this salad is how customizable it is based on what you have on hand.
Can I use a different dressing for this salad?
Yes! If you prefer a creamier dressing, try using a tahini dressing or a Greek yogurt-based dressing. You can also swap the lemon juice for balsamic vinegar for a different twist.
Is this Summer Zucchini Salad vegan?
The salad itself is vegan if you omit the feta cheese. You can also substitute the feta with a vegan cheese or simply enjoy it without cheese.
Final Thoughts on Summer Zucchini Salad
This Summer Zucchini Salad is the perfect dish to enjoy during the warmer months. It’s fresh, light, and bursting with vibrant flavors that remind you of everything great about summer. Whether you’re having it on its own or pairing it with grilled meats or a sandwich, it’s sure to be a hit at your next meal or gathering.
Pin It for Later
Don’t forget to pin this recipe so you can make it whenever you’re craving something light and refreshing!
