If you’re craving a fresh, vibrant dish that bursts with flavor and texture, this Ribboned Courgette Salad Recipe is exactly what your kitchen needs. It celebrates the delicate, tender courgette transformed into graceful ribbons, paired with zesty lemon, rich feta, and aromatic mint for a truly refreshing Mediterranean-inspired salad. The balance of creamy, tangy, and crunchy elements makes it not only visually stunning but also an absolute joy to eat. Whether you want a quick lunch or a colorful side, this recipe brings simplicity and elegance together on every plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the secret to making this Ribboned Courgette Salad Recipe shine. Each component plays a crucial role—from the fresh courgettes providing crispness and color, to the toasted pine nuts adding a satisfying crunch, and the honey-infused dressing that ties everything with a subtle sweetness.
- 2 medium courgettes (zucchini): Choose firm and fresh courgettes for the best ribbons that hold their shape and crunch.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Use a quality extra virgin olive oil to deliver a rich and fruity base for the dressing.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the whole salad with a tangy kick.
- 1 teaspoon honey: Balances the acidity of lemon with a touch of natural sweetness.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance all the fresh flavors.
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese: Adds creaminess and a salty, tangy note that pairs perfectly with courgettes.
- 2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts: Provide a nutty crunch that elevates the texture profile.
- A handful of fresh mint leaves, roughly chopped: Lends a refreshing herbal aroma that enlivens every bite.
- A handful of arugula or baby spinach (optional): Adds leafy green depth and a peppery twist, making the salad even more vibrant.
How to Make Ribboned Courgette Salad Recipe
Step 1: Create the courgette ribbons
Start by washing the courgettes thoroughly. Using a vegetable peeler, shave the courgettes lengthwise into thin, delicate ribbons. These ribbons are the star of the dish, offering a silky texture and a beautiful visual appeal that makes the salad so inviting.
Step 2: Prepare the dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, honey, salt, and black pepper. This simple yet flavorful dressing perfectly complements the mild courgette ribbons with a hint of zest and sweetness.
Step 3: Toss the salad
Gently toss the courgette ribbons with the dressing, making sure each ribbon is coated without breaking. The gentle toss preserves the ribbons’ texture and ensures every bite is flavorful.
Step 4: Add toppings
Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese, toasted pine nuts, and chopped fresh mint over the dressed courgette ribbons. Toss lightly to combine these vibrant flavors and textures evenly throughout the salad.
Step 5: Fold in greens (optional)
If you’re including arugula or baby spinach, gently fold these in just before serving to maintain their freshness and slight pepperiness, giving the salad an added layer of green goodness.
How to Serve Ribboned Courgette Salad Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra pop of color and texture, garnish your salad with a few whole mint leaves or a sprinkle of lemon zest. These simple touches refresh the palate and add a lovely aromatic lift.
Side Dishes
This Ribboned Courgette Salad Recipe pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish, lending lightness to your meal. It also makes a fantastic side for hearty Mediterranean mains, such as roasted lamb or vegetable kebabs.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, serve the salad in a large shallow bowl, letting the long ribbons cascade gently. Alternatively, arrange the ribbons neatly in small individual plates and top with a small cluster of pine nuts and feta for an elegant starter that will impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one day. Keep in mind the courgette ribbons may release some water, so drain any excess liquid before serving again to preserve crispness.
Freezing
Because the salad is made with fresh courgette ribbons and mint, freezing is not recommended. Freezing can compromise the texture and freshness that make this salad so delightful.
Reheating
This is a no-cook salad best served fresh or chilled. If you prefer room temperature, simply let the salad sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While feta is traditional and adds a perfect salty tang, goat cheese or shaved parmesan are excellent alternatives that complement the courgette beautifully.
What if I don’t have pine nuts?
You can substitute toasted almonds, walnuts, or even pumpkin seeds for a different crunch and nutty flavor.
Is this salad suitable for vegans?
To make this Ribboned Courgette Salad Recipe vegan, simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a plant-based cheese alternative.
Can I prepare the courgette ribbons in advance?
It’s best to slice the courgettes right before serving to maintain their crispness and prevent them from becoming soggy.
How long does this salad keep its freshness?
For the freshest taste and texture, enjoy this salad within the same day it’s made. The courgette ribbons start to soften after several hours of dressing.
Final Thoughts
This Ribboned Courgette Salad Recipe is a true celebration of fresh, simple ingredients that come together to create something truly special. Its elegant ribbons of courgette, bright dressing, and crunchy, creamy toppings make it a go-to recipe when you want a quick yet impressive dish. Next time you want a little summer magic in your meal, give this recipe a try—you won’t regret serving up this fresh, colorful delight.
Print
Ribboned Courgette Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten Free
Description
A refreshing and light Ribboned Courgette Salad featuring thinly sliced courgette ribbons dressed in a zesty lemon and honey dressing, topped with crumbled feta, toasted pine nuts, and fresh mint. This Mediterranean-inspired salad is perfect as a quick, no-cook side dish or light meal, with an optional addition of arugula or baby spinach for extra greens.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 2 medium courgettes (zucchini)
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts
- A handful of fresh mint leaves, roughly chopped
- A handful of arugula or baby spinach (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Courgette Ribbons: Use a vegetable peeler to thinly slice the courgettes into long ribbons. Place these ribbons in a large mixing bowl to prepare for dressing.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, salt, and black pepper until well combined and emulsified.
- Toss Salad with Dressing: Pour the dressing over the courgette ribbons and toss gently but thoroughly to ensure all ribbons are coated with the flavorful dressing.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese, toasted pine nuts, and chopped fresh mint over the dressed courgette ribbons. Toss again lightly to evenly distribute the toppings.
- Incorporate Greens (Optional): If using arugula or baby spinach, fold these greens into the salad just before serving to keep them fresh and crisp.
- Serve: Serve the salad immediately for the best texture and flavor, or chill briefly in the refrigerator before serving as desired.
Notes
- For added protein, top with grilled chicken or chickpeas.
- Swap the feta for goat cheese or shaved parmesan according to preference.
