Shaved Zucchini Ribbon Salad (Printable)

Thin zucchini ribbons with lemon, shaved Parmesan, basil, and a light olive oil dressing—fresh and bright.

# Ingredient List:

→ Vegetables

01 - 4 medium zucchini, ends trimmed
02 - 1 small shallot, thinly sliced

→ Dressing

03 - 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
04 - 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
05 - 1 teaspoon lemon zest
06 - 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
07 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

→ Cheese & Garnish

08 - 1/2 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
09 - 2 tablespoons fresh basil, torn or julienned
10 - 1 tablespoon pine nuts, lightly toasted (optional)

# How-To Steps:

01 - Rinse zucchini and trim the ends. Using a vegetable peeler or mandoline, shave each zucchini lengthwise into thin ribbons and transfer the ribbons to a large mixing bowl.
02 - Thinly slice the shallot and add it to the bowl with the zucchini ribbons.
03 - In a small bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper until combined and slightly emulsified.
04 - Drizzle the dressing evenly over the zucchini and shallot. Gently toss with a pair of tongs or your hands to coat the ribbons without bruising them.
05 - Scatter the shaved Parmesan, torn basil, and toasted pine nuts (if using) over the dressed zucchini. Toss briefly to distribute ingredients or arrange the cheese and herbs on top as a garnish.
06 - Serve immediately to preserve the crisp texture and bright flavors. If desired, accompany with grilled protein or extra herbs.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • No cooking required, so you can keep the kitchen cool and relax.
  • The combination of tender ribbons, bright lemon, and salty Parmesan surprises everyone at the table.
02 -
  • If you salt the zucchini too early, it turns limp—dress it just before serving.
  • Tossing the salad by hand rather than with utensils keeps the ribbons whole and beautiful.
03 -
  • Don’t skip toasting the pine nuts—they go from bland to brilliant in one minute.
  • Try to use room temperature Parmesan for the best texture and flavor.
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