Refreshing Summer Squash Salad

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy fresh, crisp salads that are easy to make and packed with flavor. The Refreshing Summer Squash Salad is a simple dish that highlights the best of seasonal vegetables. With its vibrant colors and delightful taste, this salad is not only healthy but also visually appealing. Whether you’re picnicking, hosting a barbecue, or just wanting a light meal, this recipe is a great choice.

Why Make This Recipe

This Refreshing Summer Squash Salad is an excellent way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. It’s quick to prepare and requires minimal cooking, making it ideal for hot summer days. The combination of fresh zucchini, yellow squash, and juicy cherry tomatoes creates a light dish that is both nutritious and satisfying. Plus, the bright lemon dressing adds a zesty kick that enhances the flavors of the vegetables.

How to Make Refreshing Summer Squash Salad

Ingredients

1 medium zucchini, spiralized
1 medium yellow squash, spiralized
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp lemon zest
1 tbsp lemon juice
Salt & black pepper, to taste
Lemon wedges, for garnish

Directions

Prep Veggies: Start by spiralizing the zucchini and yellow squash. After that, cut the cherry tomatoes in half.
Toss Salad: In a large bowl, combine the spiralized squash, zucchini, halved tomatoes, chopped parsley, and chopped basil.
Add Dressing: Drizzle the mixture with olive oil, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve: Gently toss the salad and garnish it with a lemon wedge before serving.

How to Serve Refreshing Summer Squash Salad

This salad is best served fresh. You can enjoy it as a side dish with grilled meats or as a light lunch on its own. It also pairs well with crusty bread or a refreshing drink. For an added touch, sprinkle some feta cheese or nuts on top for extra flavor and texture.

How to Store Refreshing Summer Squash Salad

If you have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to two days. However, keep in mind that the texture of the spiralized squash may soften over time. To keep it crisp, you may want to store the dressing separately and toss it with the salad just before serving.

Tips to Make Refreshing Summer Squash Salad

Make sure to use fresh herbs for the best flavor.
If you don’t have a spiralizer, you can slice the zucchini and yellow squash thinly.
Feel free to add other vegetables you enjoy, such as bell peppers or cucumbers.

Variation

You can easily turn this salad into a more filling dish by adding cooked grains like quinoa or farro. You might also add proteins like grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a complete meal.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the ingredients a few hours in advance and keep them in the refrigerator. However, it’s best to add the dressing right before serving to keep everything fresh.

Can I use other types of squash?

Absolutely! You can use any type of summer squash or even spaghetti squash for a different texture.

What other dressings work well with this salad?

Besides the lemon dressing, you can use a balsamic vinaigrette or a simple olive oil and vinegar mix for a different flavor profile.

Now you’re ready to create and enjoy this wonderful Refreshing Summer Squash Salad! It’s an easy, light, and tasty addition to your summer meal lineup.