Fresh Shaved Zucchini Salad Recipe with Lemon and Parmesan
A light, fresh, and easy-to-make zucchini salad with lemon and Parmesan, perfect as a side dish for summer evenings or last-minute guests.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 medium zucchinis, washed and ends trimmed
- 1 large lemon, juiced and zested
- 1/3 cup freshly shaved or grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- A handful of fresh basil or mint (optional), torn or finely chopped
- Salt to taste
- Freshly cracked black pepper to taste
- A pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Wash and dry the zucchinis thoroughly. Using a vegetable peeler or mandoline, shave the zucchini lengthwise into thin ribbons. Set aside in a bowl.
- In a small bowl, combine the freshly squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, and olive oil. Whisk gently until emulsified. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Pour the dressing over the zucchini ribbons. Gently toss to coat evenly without bruising the zucchini.
- Scatter the shaved Parmesan over the top, followed by fresh basil or mint if using. Toss gently to combine.
- Let the salad sit for about 5 minutes at room temperature to soften slightly and absorb flavors (optional).
- Transfer to a serving platter or bowl, garnish with extra lemon wedge or additional Parmesan if desired, and serve immediately.
Notes
Shave zucchini ribbons thin but not paper-thin to maintain texture. Use fresh lemon zest and juice for best flavor. Toss gently to avoid bruising zucchini. Best eaten fresh within a couple of hours. For make-ahead, keep dressing separate and toss just before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 1 cup per serv
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 3
- Sodium: 150
- Fat: 9
- Saturated Fat: 2.5
- Carbohydrates: 5
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 4
Keywords: zucchini salad, lemon salad, Parmesan salad, fresh salad, summer side dish, easy salad, healthy salad