Capsaicin Free Classic Zucchini Ribbon Salad
Raw zucchini gets a serious glow-up here, transformed into delicate, silky ribbons that soak up a bright lemon-garlic dressing and taste far more elegant than the effort involved. Salting the ribbons first draws out just enough moisture so they soften slightly without going limp, giving you that perfect tender-but-still-fresh texture in every bite. Toasted pine nuts add a warm, buttery crunch, while shaved Parmesan and torn basil and mint bring layers of savory, herby flavor that make the whole bowl feel genuinely special. For anyone avoiding capsaicin, this recipe is naturally built around cool, mild ingredients — just skip the optional red pepper flakes listed in the dressing and you're completely in the clear. No hot sauces, no chili-spiked pantry staples, no guesswork about hidden heat. It's the kind of dish that looks stunning on a summer table and comes together fast enough to be a weeknight regular.
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Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
- 4 medium zucchini (about 1 ½ lb total)
- ¾ tsp kosher salt, divided
- 3 tbsp pine nuts
- 1 oz parmesan, shaved with a vegetable peeler
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- 2 tbsp fresh mint leaves, torn
For the dressing
- 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice (from about 1 lemon)
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1 small garlic clove, finely grated
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Can be omittedred pepper flakes
Instructions
- 1
Using a vegetable peeler or mandoline, shave each zucchini lengthwise into long, thin ribbons, rotating the zucchini a quarter-turn after every few passes and stopping when you reach the seedy core. Place the ribbons in a colander set over the sink, toss with 1/2 tsp of the salt, and let stand for 5 minutes until slightly softened and a little moisture has released.
- 2
While the zucchini drains, toast the pine nuts in a small dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently, until golden and fragrant, about 2–3 minutes. Watch closely, as they can brown quickly. Transfer immediately to a plate to cool.
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