Zucchini Noodle Salad Recipe

This zucchini noodle salad is my absolute favorite because it packs a refreshing punch with its vibrant mix of zoodles, cherry tomatoes, and lemon zest that feels like a summer vacation in a bowl. Plus, the creamy feta and optional toasted pine nuts add just the right amount of indulgence, making healthy eating taste anything but boring!

I adore preparing refreshing and not-too-heavy dishes, and this Zucchini Noodle Salad is one of my go-tos. It’s a colorful amalgam really—it’s got bright and sunny cherry tomatoes, super-thinly sliced red onion (for zip), and creamy feta (or goat cheese), which makes it a Nordic salad.

Zucchini is really your number one ingredient here. You’re going to make noodles out of it.

It’s kind of like using spaghetti squash in that you get a boatload of a not-so-nutritious veggie when what you’re actually going to eat is the carb substitute.

Ingredients

Zucchini: Low-calorie, high-fiber, digestive-promoting.

Rich in antioxidants, cherry tomatoes add a sweet and tangy flavor.

Mildly sharp and tasty, red onions pack a flavonoid punch.

Feta cheese: imparts creaminess and saltiness; a good source of protein.

Basil: An herb that smells nice and has within it the anti-inflammatory properties needed to combat conditions like arthritis.

Health Benefits of Olive Oil

Olive oil is a healthy fat that may play a role in overall heart health.

The oil may also be beneficial for skin conditions.

Lemon juice provides a vibrant, tangy flavor and a plentiful supply of vitamin C.

Optional Pine Nuts: Contributes a subtle crunch and heart-healthy fats.

Ingredient Quantities

• 2 medium zucchinis
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
• Optional: 1 garlic clove, minced

Instructions

1. Start by cleaning the zucchinis thoroughly and cutting off the ends. Spiralize the zucchinis to form noodles (zoodles), and put the zoodles into a large mixing bowl.

2. Place the cherry tomatoes that have been cut in half into the bowl with the zoodles.

3. Slice the red onion very thinly and add it to the bowl.

4. If you are using it, mince the garlic clove and add it along with the freshly chopped basil to the salad.

5. Olive oil and lemon juice should be drizzled over the salad ingredients in the bowl.

6. Add the lemon zest to provide a clean, bright taste.

7. Add salt and pepper to taste and combine gently to ensure the salad is well dressed.

8. Over the salad, crumble the feta cheese; then fold it in gently to incorporate.

9. If you want to, toast the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat until they are golden brown and smell wonderful; then, sprinkle them over the salad.

10. Immediately serve the zucchini noodle salad or refrigerate for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld before serving. Enjoy!

Equipment Needed

1. Cutting board
2. Chef’s knife
3. Spiralizer
4. Large mixing bowl
5. Small mixing bowl (optional, for zesting or mincing)
6. Citrus juicer (optional)
7. Zester or microplane
8. Measuring cups and spoons
9. Skillet (if toasting pine nuts)
10. Wooden spoon or salad tongs

FAQ

• Can I use a spiralizer to make zucchini noodles?Indeed, a spiralizer functions exquisitely to produce even zucchini noodles. You can also achieve this with the following tools: a julienne peeler, a mandoline (slicer).
• How can I keep the zucchini noodles from getting soggy?To ensure the noodles don’t become soggy, you want to sprinkle them with salt and let them sit for about 15 minutes. After that, it’s essential to pat them dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.
• Is there a substitute for feta cheese?Goat cheese or ricotta salata can take the place of feta cheese, with these substitutes giving feta’s flavor profile and texture a good run for its money.
• Can I prepare the salad in advance?This salad is best served fresh. You can, however, chop the components in advance and assemble the salad just before you eat.
• What can I use instead of pine nuts?Should you require an alternative to pine nuts, consider using toasted almonds, walnuts, or sunflower seeds. These ingredients will provide a similar crunch in your dish.
• Do I need to cook the zucchini noodles?This recipe is intended for raw zucchini noodles to keep them fresh and crunchy. However, if you would rather, you can lightly sauté them for a minute or two.
• What can I serve with this salad?You can serve this salad alongside grilled chicken, fish, or as a light side to any main dish.

Substitutions and Variations

If you cannot find zucchini, you can use yellow squash or cucumber for a similar texture.
Use grape tomatoes or diced Roma tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes.
If red onion is unavailable, substitute with green onions or shallots.
Substitute goat cheese or ricotta salata for feta cheese to achieve a different flavor.
Replace fresh basil with fresh mint or fresh parsley for a unique twist.

Pro Tips

1. Dry the Zoodles After spiralizing the zucchinis, place them on a clean kitchen towel and gently pat them dry to remove excess moisture. This helps prevent the salad from becoming watery.

2. Chill for Extra Freshness Refrigerate the salad for at least 15 minutes before serving. This not only allows the flavors to meld but also enhances the crispness of the zoodles and the brightness of the basil.

3. Roasting for Depth If you want extra flavor, try roasting the cherry tomatoes at 400°F (200°C) for about 15 minutes before adding them to the salad. This will add a sweet, caramelized note.

4. Balance Acidity Taste and adjust the lemon juice and zest according to your preference. If the salad seems too tangy, add a pinch of sugar or drizzle a bit of honey to balance the flavors.

5. Enhance Crunch and Flavor Lightly toast the pine nuts until just golden brown to intensify their flavor and add a delightful crunch to your salad.