Zucchini Ribbon and Pesto Green Salad
Spiralized zucchini ribbons coated in a luscious basil pesto, and tossed with halved cherry tomatoes. This light and refreshing salad is a perfect summer side dish.
Zucchini ribbon salads are a staple of summer cookouts and potlucks, and for good reason. They're incredibly easy to make, they're healthy, and they're delicious. This particular recipe takes the classic zucchini ribbon salad up a notch by adding a creamy, flavorful basil pesto. The pesto is made with fresh basil, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, and garlic, and it adds a rich, herbaceous flavor to the salad. The cherry tomatoes add a touch of sweetness and acidity, and they help to brighten up the dish. This salad is a great way to use up excess zucchini from your garden, and it's sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
Zucchini Ribbon and Pesto Green Salad Zucchini Ribbon and Pesto Green Salad Zucchini Ribbon and Pesto Green Salad Zucchini Ribbon and Pesto Green Salad
Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 0 | Serves: 4
Ingredients
  • 6 medium zucchinis
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
  • 1/4 cup pine nuts
  • 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup halved cherry tomatoes
Instructions
  1. Cut the ends off the zucchini and use a spiralizer to create zucchini ribbons.
  2. Place the zucchini ribbons in a large bowl.
  3. In a food processor, combine the basil, pine nuts, parmesan cheese, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Process until the pesto is smooth.
  4. Add the pesto to the zucchini ribbons and toss to coat.
  5. Let the salad marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 2 hours.
  6. Just before serving, add the cherry tomatoes and toss.
Why It Works
  • Spiralizing the zucchini creates long, thin ribbons that increase the surface area, making them more absorbent and flavorful.
  • The basil pesto is made with fresh, aromatic basil, which gives it a vibrant, herbaceous flavor.
  • The pine nuts and Parmesan cheese add richness and a nutty flavor to the pesto.
  • The cherry tomatoes add a touch of sweetness and acidity, which helps to balance out the flavors in the salad.
  • Marinating the salad for at least 15 minutes allows the flavors to meld and develop.