Zoodle Salad with Lemon-Tahini Dressing is a refreshing dish that dances on your palate with zesty flavors and vibrant colors. Imagine biting into crisp zucchini noodles, drizzled with a creamy, tangy dressing that lifts your spirits and tickles your taste buds. refreshing cucumber mint drink. For more inspiration, check out this no-bake lemon icebox pie recipe.
Whenever I whip up this zoodle salad, I’m transported back to summer picnics with friends, where laughter and delicious food filled the air. light and fruity salad Perfect for those warm days when you want something light yet satisfying, this salad promises to be the star of any gathering.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This zoodle salad is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- The fresh ingredients create a delightful flavor explosion in every bite
- Its eye-catching colors make it a stunning centerpiece for any table setting
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve as a side or main dish!
I remember the first time I made this zoodle salad; my friends couldn’t get enough of it, asking for seconds and thirds!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Zucchini: Look for firm zucchinis without blemishes; they’re the star of our zoodles!
- Cherry Tomatoes: Choose bright, plump tomatoes; they’ll add a burst of sweetness.
- Cucumber: Opt for English cucumbers for their crisp texture and mild flavor.
- Fresh Parsley: Use fresh parsley to brighten the salad with herbaceous notes.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice gives that zingy flavor that’s hard to resist.
- Tahini: Select high-quality tahini for creaminess and nutty undertones in the dressing.
- Garlic Clove: A fresh garlic clove adds depth; adjust according to your taste preference.
- Olive Oil: Good quality extra virgin olive oil enhances richness in the dressing.
- Salt and Pepper: Use these simple seasonings to bring out all the flavors in the salad.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare Your Zoodles: Begin by spiralizing the zucchini into noodles using a spiralizer or vegetable peeler. Aim for long strands that resemble spaghetti.
Sauté Your Veggies Slightly (Optional): If you prefer softer zoodles, sauté them over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes until slightly tender but still al dente.
Chop The Other Vegetables: Dice cherry tomatoes and cucumber into bite-sized pieces while finely chopping fresh parsley. These colorful additions will brighten your salad. For more inspiration, check out this garlic butter green beans recipe.
Make The Lemon-Tahini Dressing: In a bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper until smooth. Adjust seasoning according to taste preferences.
Toss It All Together: In a large bowl, combine zoodles with chopped vegetables. Drizzle dressing over and gently toss everything together until well-coated.
Serve And Enjoy!: Transfer your beautifully mixed zoodle salad onto plates or bowls. Serve immediately or chill in the fridge for about 15 minutes for even more flavor infusion.
This Zoodle Salad with Lemon-Tahini Dressing is not just another side dish; it’s an experience filled with vibrant flavors and textures that will leave you craving more. delicious lemon icebox pie Perfect for summer gatherings or whenever you want something light yet satisfying! tasty strawberry lemon bars.
You Must Know
- This zoodle salad with lemon-tahini dressing is a colorful and refreshing dish that’s perfect for warm days
- The vibrant flavors brighten your plate and your mood, making it a go-to recipe for family gatherings or a quick lunch
- Enjoy the unique textures and tastes!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Begin by spiralizing your zucchini into zoodles, then toss them in salt to draw out excess moisture. While they sit, prepare the dressing and chop any additional vegetables you want to add. Finally, combine everything just before serving to keep the zoodles crisp.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize this zoodle salad! Add grilled chicken for protein, swap tahini with almond butter, or toss in some cherry tomatoes for extra color. Experiment with herbs like basil or mint for a fresh twist on flavors.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover zoodle salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Avoid reheating as this can make zoodles soggy; instead, enjoy them cold for a refreshing snack!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve perfectly crunchy zoodles, avoid salting them too long
- Use fresh ingredients whenever possible for maximum flavor impact
- And remember, the dressing can be made ahead of time—just give it a good shake before using!
The first time I made this zoodle salad with lemon-tahini dressing, my friends devoured it in minutes while I stood there wondering if I should have made more!
FAQ
What are zoodles?
Zoodles are zucchini noodles made by spiralizing fresh zucchini into noodle shapes.
Can I use other vegetables in this salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in bell peppers, carrots, or cucumbers for added crunch.
Is tahini essential for the dressing?
Tahini adds creaminess but can be substituted with yogurt or nut butter if desired.
Zoodle Salad with Lemon-Tahini Dressing
- Total Time: 19 minute
- Yield: Serves approximately 4
Description
Zoodle Salad with Lemon-Tahini Dressing is a light, refreshing dish perfect for warm weather. Enjoy the crispness of zucchini noodles tossed with vibrant cherry tomatoes and cucumbers, all coated in a creamy lemon-tahini dressing. This salad not only satisfies your taste buds but also brightens up any gathering with its colorful presentation.
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis (spiralized)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1 cup English cucumber (diced)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped)
- 3 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 3 tbsp tahini
- 1 garlic clove (minced)
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Spiralize the zucchinis into zoodles. Optionally, sauté for 2-3 minutes if you prefer softer noodles.
- Dice cherry tomatoes and cucumber; chop parsley.
- In a bowl, whisk tahini, lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Combine zoodles, vegetables, and dressing in a large bowl; toss gently.
- Serve immediately or chill for 15 minutes for enhanced flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: Optional sautéing for 3 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Raw/Optional sauté
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Customize by adding grilled chicken or swapping tahini with almond butter. Try incorporating fresh herbs like basil or mint for added flavor.
