Beef Free Zucchini Ribbon Salad with Fresh Basil
Ribbons of tender zucchini draped with fragrant basil, creamy torn mozzarella, and golden toasted pine nuts — this salad is the kind of thing that looks like it came from a restaurant but comes together entirely in your own kitchen. The technique of salting the zucchini first is a small but brilliant step that softens the ribbons just enough while pulling out excess moisture, so the dressing clings beautifully instead of pooling at the bottom of the plate. A bright, zippy vinaigrette of extra-virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, and apple cider vinegar ties everything together with a clean acidity that lets the fresh ingredients shine. Optional red pepper flakes add a gentle kick if you want a little heat without overpowering the delicate flavors. Every component here is naturally plant-forward and light, so there's no need to swap or substitute anything — it works exactly as written. Serve it immediately after plating so the ribbons stay lively and the pine nuts keep their satisfying crunch.
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Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
- 4 medium zucchini (about 1 ½ lb total)
- ½ tsp kosher salt
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, loosely packed
- 3 tbsp pine nuts, toasted
- 2 oz fresh mozzarella, thinly shaved or torn
For the dressing
- 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
- ¼ tsp black pepper, freshly ground
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
For serving
- flaky sea salt, to taste
Instructions
- 1
Using a vegetable peeler or mandoline, shave each zucchini lengthwise into long, thin ribbons, rotating the zucchini a quarter-turn after each pass and stopping when you reach the seedy core. Place the ribbons in a colander set over the sink, toss with the kosher salt, and let stand for 10 minutes until slightly softened and some moisture has released.
- 2
While the zucchini drains, toast the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, until golden and fragrant, about 3–4 minutes. Watch closely, as they can brown quickly. Transfer immediately to a small plate to cool.
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