While my social media feeds showcase autumn vibes, I'm still soaking up summer. Spending time in Austin, where the air remains warm and humid, has me savoring summer flavors, not thinking about pumpkins just yet. I'm enjoying fresh watermelon and flavorful tomatoes alongside crisp drinks on the patio. The farmers' markets are overflowing with seasonal produce, and I'm eager to relish it all before it's gone.

This summer, I've overlooked squash and zucchini. Though they're common summer veggies, they often end up roasted or grilled as sides. I tend to forget they can also be enjoyed raw. Their fresh yet slightly firm flavor captures the essence of summer beautifully. This zucchini ribbon salad is my way of celebrating the last warm days. Here's why you should add it to your kitchen repertoire.

Squash Ribbon Salad

Ingredients for Zucchini Ribbon Salad

Zucchini. This is the main ingredient, with a mild taste and tender texture that's ideal for creating those lovely ribbons.

Squash. A touch sweeter than zucchini, it adds balance and visual appeal to the dish.

Cucumber. Provides a crisp, refreshing crunch that enhances the salad's lightness.

Avocado. Its creamy richness adds body and complements the fresh textures.

Goat Cheese. This tangy cheese melts into the ribbons, adding a luxurious touch.

Almonds. Their toasted crunch contributes depth while keeping the salad from feeling too soft.

Pistachios. Nutty and sweet, they enhance both flavor and presentation.

Fresh Herbs. A mix of mint, basil, or parsley brightens the dish with a fresh garden taste.

Olive Oil. This smooth dressing component ties the ingredients together with richness.

Lemon Juice. Adds a zesty brightness, enhancing the flavors and keeping the salad lively.

Honey. A drizzle gives a hint of sweetness that balances the tang and crunch.

Squash Salad

How to Prepare this Zucchini Ribbon Salad

If you're hesitant about raw zucchini and squash, that's understandable! But I'm here to help you appreciate them. Here are some tips for making this salad delicious.

First, use a vegetable peeler to create ultra-thin ribbons of zucchini and squash. This technique enhances the aesthetics and removes any chewy texture you'd encounter with thicker cuts. The result is delicate ribbons with a satisfying crunch close to that of a cucumber.

If raw veggies aren't your preference, quickly blanch the ribbons in boiling water and then plunge them into an ice bath. This method prevents sogginess while ensuring they remain crisp and slightly cooked.

The key to this zucchini ribbon salad is balancing textures. Creamy avocado and tangy goat cheese contrast with the crisp ribbons, while cucumber offers a refreshing bite. Toasted almonds and pistachios provide crunch, fresh herbs brighten the flavors, and a lemon-honey dressing delivers a sweet, zesty finish.

Ribbon Squash Salad

What to Serve with Zucchini Ribbon Salad

This salad makes a fantastic side for summer gatherings, pairing well with a variety of dishes. Here's what I'm serving alongside it as summer comes to a close.

Chicken Burgers (wrapped in lettuce or served on buns) or Grilled Chicken Thighs

A Bright and Zesty Pasta Salad or this Caprese Pasta Salad

Grilled Zucchini (served fresh and grilled) along with Grilled Sweet Potatoes

Grilled Peaches topped with Ice Cream

Summer Ribboned Squash Salad
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Description

A simple, elegant summer side dish.

Ingredients

  • Juice from 1 lemon
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • Optional: spoonful of Dijon mustard
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes
  • Pinch of salt and pepper
  • 1 large zucchini
  • 1 large squash
  • 1 large cucumber
  • 1 avocado
  • 6–8 ounces goat cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped nuts (almonds and/or pistachios)
  • Fresh herbs: basil, dill, and mint

Instructions

  1. In a big bowl, combine lemon juice, honey, olive oil, and optional Dijon mustard, along with red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Whisk until combined, adjusting to taste.
  2. Using a vegetable peeler, create long, thin ribbons from the zucchini, squash, and cucumber. Avoid the core and seeds. Toss the ribbons in a large bowl to coat.
  3. To serve, mix in avocado, goat cheese, nuts, and fresh herbs. Enjoy!
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes

Keywords: zucchini, squash, salad