If you’re looking for a salad that feels like a breath of fresh air on your plate, this Shaved Zucchini Salad with Lemon, Pine Nuts, and Goat Cheese Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a delightful combination of crisp, delicate zucchini ribbons tossed with bright lemon, nutty pine nuts, and creamy goat cheese that come together effortlessly to create a dish bursting with vibrant flavor and texture. Whether you want a light lunch or a stunning side, this salad brings a gourmet touch with minimal fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients may be simple, but each plays a crucial role in elevating this salad from ordinary to extraordinary. Every component adds a unique texture, flavor note, or pop of color that makes the dish utterly irresistible.
- 3 medium zucchini: Fresh and firm, zucchini is the star, providing a crisp and slightly sweet base when shaved into ribbons.
- Zest from one lemon: Intensely aromatic, lemon zest infuses the salad with bright citrus oils for freshness.
- Juice from one lemon: Adds tangy brightness that wakes up all the flavors in the salad.
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil: A luscious, rich coating that brings everything together with a silky mouthfeel.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances and balances the natural sweetness of zucchini and lemon.
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper: Adds a subtle warmth and seasoning complexity.
- 1/4 cup pine nuts: Toasted until golden, these nuts bring a toasty crunch and buttery flavor.
- 2 ounces goat cheese: Creamy and tangy, goat cheese adds a luxurious contrast to the crisp zucchini.
- 1/4 cup microgreens: These tiny greens lend a fresh, peppery finish and visual appeal.
How to Make Shaved Zucchini Salad with Lemon, Pine Nuts, and Goat Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Shave the Zucchini
Start by finely shaving the zucchini. You can use a vegetable peeler or a mandoline set to about 1/8 inch thickness. The goal is to create delicate, thin ribbons of zucchini that feel light and fresh on the palate. This step is key to building the salad’s signature texture.
Step 2: Combine the Dressing Ingredients
In a large bowl, gently mix the shaved zucchini with lemon zest, lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, kosher salt, and freshly ground pepper. Be careful to toss lightly so the zucchini ribbons maintain their shape and don’t get mushy. Let this mixture marinate for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the zucchini to soften slightly.
Step 3: Shape the Salad
Once marinated, transfer the zucchini ribbons to your serving bowl or plate. Using your hands or tongs, twist the strands to form pretty circular shapes. This simple touch makes the salad look inviting and adds a bit of rustic charm to the presentation.
Step 4: Toast the Pine Nuts
While the zucchini marinates, toast the pine nuts in a dry non-stick pan over medium heat for about five minutes. Stir frequently and watch closely to prevent burning. Once they turn golden brown and release their nutty aroma, remove from heat. These toasted pine nuts will add a delightful crunch and toasty flavor contrast.
Step 5: Assemble and Garnish
Sprinkle the toasted pine nuts evenly over the zucchini ribbons. Crumble fresh goat cheese on top, distributing it generously for creamy bursts in every bite. Finish by scattering the microgreens for a fresh, peppery note and a vibrant green pop that brings the whole salad together beautifully.
How to Serve Shaved Zucchini Salad with Lemon, Pine Nuts, and Goat Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance this salad with additional garnishes such as a drizzle of honey for sweetness or a scattering of fresh herbs like mint or basil to highlight the lemon’s brightness. A light sprinkle of flaky sea salt can also elevate the flavors right before serving.
Side Dishes
This salad makes an excellent accompaniment to grilled chicken, fish, or even a hearty grain bowl. The fresh and tangy profile of the salad complements richer or smoky mains, providing a crisp counterbalance that refreshes the palate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, try layering the shaved zucchini ribbons in individual glass jars for a chic picnic or lunchbox treat. You could also use as a topping for bruschetta or serve atop toasted baguette slices for an elegant appetizer option.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The zucchini may release some water over time, so give the salad a gentle toss before serving again to redistribute the dressing.
Freezing
Because the salad contains fresh ingredients like zucchini and goat cheese, freezing is not recommended. The texture and flavor will degrade, and the salad will become watery when thawed.
Reheating
This salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. There’s no need to reheat since the fresh flavors and crisp textures are at their peak when served chilled.
FAQs
Can I use yellow squash instead of zucchini?
Absolutely! Yellow squash has a similar texture and mild flavor that will work wonderfully shaved in this salad. It will also add a lovely color variation.
What can I substitute for goat cheese?
If you’re not a fan of goat cheese, feta is a great alternative for a tangy, crumbly texture. Alternatively, fresh ricotta can provide a creamy element without strong tanginess.
Are pine nuts necessary?
Pine nuts are highly recommended because of their unique rich and buttery flavor when toasted. However, toasted almonds, walnuts, or pumpkin seeds can also provide a satisfying crunch and nutty dimension.
How long can the salad marinate?
The salad should marinate for about 10 minutes to soften the zucchini slightly and allow flavors to meld. Marinating longer is possible but may cause the zucchini to become too soggy.
Can I prepare the salad ahead of time for a party?
You can prep the shaved zucchini and dressing separately in advance, then toss them together just before serving to keep the ribbons fresh and crisp. Toast pine nuts and crumble goat cheese closer to serving time as well.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Shaved Zucchini Salad with Lemon, Pine Nuts, and Goat Cheese Recipe that makes it an instant favorite whenever it graces my table. It’s fresh, flavorful, and effortlessly elegant, with each ingredient shining in harmony. I can’t wait for you to give this beautiful salad a try and enjoy the crisp bites, tangy lemon, and creamy hints of goat cheese as much as I do!
Print
Shaved Zucchini Salad with Lemon, Pine Nuts, and Goat Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A light and refreshing Shaved Zucchini Salad featuring thinly sliced zucchini ribbons tossed with lemon zest and juice, extra virgin olive oil, and seasoned with kosher salt and freshly ground pepper. Finished with toasted pine nuts, creamy goat cheese, and fresh microgreens, this salad is perfect as a healthy appetizer or side dish.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 3 medium zucchini
- Zest from one lemon
- Juice from one lemon
- 1/4 cup microgreens
Seasoning & Oil
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
Toppings
- 1/4 cup pine nuts
- 2 ounces goat cheese
Instructions
- Shave the Zucchini: Finely shave the zucchini using a vegetable peeler or mandoline set to 1/8 inch to create thin, delicate ribbons.
- Toss and Marinate: Gently combine the zucchini ribbons with lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Toss lightly to avoid breaking the zucchini. Let sit to marinate for 10 minutes.
- Shape the Salad: Transfer the zucchini to a serving bowl or plate and twist the strands to form circular shapes for an attractive presentation.
- Toast Pine Nuts: In a non-stick pan over medium heat, toast the pine nuts for about five minutes or until golden brown, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Assemble the Salad: Sprinkle the toasted pine nuts, crumble the goat cheese evenly over the salad, and top with fresh microgreens before serving.
Notes
- Use a sharp vegetable peeler or mandoline to achieve thin, uniform zucchini ribbons.
- Marinating enhances the flavor and softens the zucchini slightly without cooking it.
- Toast pine nuts carefully as they can burn quickly; stir frequently.
- Substitute goat cheese with feta or ricotta salata if desired.
- This salad is best served fresh but can be kept refrigerated for up to one day.
