Pecan Free Fig & Zucchini Noodle Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette
Fresh figs and zucchini noodles might sound like an unexpected pairing, but one bite of this vibrant salad will make it feel completely obvious. The spiralized zucchini gets salted and gently squeezed so it stays tender without turning watery, giving the whole dish a satisfying, noodle-like texture that holds up beautifully against the dressing. That vinaigrette is the real star — apple cider vinegar, honey, turmeric, and ginger come together into something bright, warmly spiced, and just a little bit golden. Peppery arugula and torn basil add layers of freshness, while the quartered figs bring a jammy sweetness that makes every forkful feel a little luxurious. This is exactly the kind of recipe where you don't need to swap a single thing or worry about hidden tree nuts sneaking in through a candied topping or store-bought dressing. Everything here is clean, whole, and intentional. It comes together quickly and looks stunning on the table, making it an easy win for a light lunch or an impressive starter.
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Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
For the salad
- 3 medium zucchini (about 1 ½ lb total), ends trimmed
- ½ tsp fine sea salt
- 8 fresh figs, quartered
- 2 cups baby arugula
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, torn
For the vinaigrette
- 3 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp honey
- ¼ tsp ground turmeric
- ¼ tsp ground ginger
- 1 small clove garlic, finely grated
- ¼ tsp fine sea salt
For serving
- 2 tbsp fresh mint leaves, torn (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Spiralize the zucchini into long noodles using a spiralizer, or draw a vegetable peeler lengthwise along each zucchini to create wide ribbons. Place the noodles in a colander set over the sink, toss with 1/2 tsp salt, and let stand for 10 minutes until the noodles have released some moisture and softened slightly.
- 2
While the zucchini drains, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, olive oil, honey, turmeric, ginger, garlic, and 1/4 tsp salt in a small bowl until the honey is fully dissolved and the dressing is uniform in color.
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