Zesty Cold Zucchini Noodle Salad
This refreshing Zesty Cold Zucchini Noodle Salad is a delightful low-carb alternative to traditional pasta salads, perfect for summer gatherings. With crisp spiralized zucchini as the base, this salad is easy to customize with your favorite fresh vegetables. Tossed in a tangy Italian dressing, it’s a light yet satisfying dish bursting with flavor. Serve it as a side or a main for a healthy lunch, and enjoy the freshness in every bite!
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
2
Ingredients
Ingredients
Zucchini
4 medium (spiralized)
Italian dressing
1/2 cup (preferably Wishbone brand)
Instructions
1
Begin by spiralizing the zucchini into 'zoodles' using a spiralizer. Aim for long, thin strands for the best texture.
2
Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil and season generously with salt.
3
Carefully add the spiralized zucchini to the boiling water. Cook for 7-10 minutes, or until the zoodles are tender but still have a slight crunch. The cooking time may vary depending on the ripeness of the zucchini.
4
Once cooked, drain the zoodles in a colander and allow them to sit for a moment to ensure excess water drains off. Do not rinse.
5
Transfer the warm zoodles to a lidded bowl, and drizzle in the Italian dressing. Toss gently but thoroughly until the zoodles are evenly coated. The warmth will help enhance the flavor absorption.
6
If you're adding any additional vegetables—such as cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or olives—now is the time to toss them in.
7
Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
8
Serve chilled, garnished with fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy your vibrant summer salad!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Zesty Cold Zucchini Noodle Salad?
It is a refreshing, low-carb alternative to traditional pasta salad made with spiralized zucchini and tangy Italian dressing.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
The base recipe requires only 2 main ingredients: zucchini and Italian dressing.
What are the main ingredients?
The main ingredients are 4 medium zucchinis and 1/2 cup of Italian dressing.
How do I prepare the zucchini?
You should spiralize the zucchini into long, thin strands often called 'zoodles'.
Do I need a special tool for this salad?
A spiralizer is recommended to achieve the best texture for the zucchini noodles.
How long do I cook the zucchini noodles?
Boil the zoodles for 7 to 10 minutes until they are tender but still have a slight crunch.
Should I salt the water for boiling?
Yes, bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil and season it generously with salt.
How do I know when the zoodles are done?
They are finished when they are tender yet retain a bit of texture; be careful not to overcook them.
Should I rinse the zucchini after draining?
No, do not rinse the zoodles after draining them in the colander.
When do I add the Italian dressing?
Drizzle the dressing over the warm zoodles immediately after they have been drained.
Why should I add dressing to warm noodles?
Adding dressing while the zoodles are warm helps enhance flavor absorption.
Which brand of Italian dressing is recommended?
The recipe suggests using Wishbone brand Italian dressing for the best taste.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Yes, the salad is easy to customize with your favorite fresh vegetables.
What additional vegetables go well with this dish?
Cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and olives are excellent additions to this salad.
How long does the salad need to refrigerate?
Refrigerate the salad for at least one hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
Is this recipe low-carb?
Yes, it is specifically designed as a low-carb alternative to pasta-based dishes.
Is this salad vegetarian-friendly?
Yes, the Zesty Cold Zucchini Noodle Salad is vegetarian.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe is portioned to serve 4 people.
Can I serve this salad hot?
While the noodles are initially cooked, the dish is intended to be served chilled as a refreshing summer salad.
Is this a good side dish for summer?
Yes, its light and fresh flavor makes it perfect for summer gatherings and barbecues.
How should I store leftover zucchini salad?
Store leftovers in a lidded bowl or covered with plastic wrap in the refrigerator.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, preparing it at least an hour ahead is recommended to improve the flavor.
What if I do not have a spiralizer?
You can use a vegetable peeler or a julienne peeler to create thin zucchini strips if a spiralizer is unavailable.
Is this recipe healthy?
Yes, it is a healthy, vegetable-forward dish that is low in carbohydrates.
Can I use a different type of dressing?
Yes, feel free to use your favorite tangy dressing, though Italian is the recommended choice.
How do I prevent the salad from being too watery?
Allow the zoodles to sit in the colander for a moment after draining to ensure all excess water is removed.
Should I peel the zucchini before spiralizing?
The recipe does not specify peeling, and leaving the skin on adds color and nutrition.
Can I add protein to make this a full meal?
Yes, adding protein like grilled chicken or chickpeas would make it a more satisfying main course.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
As long as the Italian dressing used is gluten-free, the recipe is naturally gluten-free.
What should I garnish the salad with?
Fresh herbs are a great choice for garnishing before serving the chilled salad.