Zucchini Salad

Fresh Zucchini Salad with Green Onions and Garlic

If you're looking for a quick, easy-to-make, and extremely tasty salad, you've come to the right place! This zucchini salad is not only an excellent choice for warm days but also a perfect side dish for summer meals. With just a few simple ingredients, you'll achieve an explosion of flavors and textures that will surely delight the taste buds of your loved ones.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 4-6 minutes
Total time: 16 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 4 small zucchinis
- 4 green onions
- 4 cloves of garlic
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 50 ml water
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste

Brief history:
Zucchini salad is a recipe with deep roots in culinary traditions, symbolizing the warm season and the abundance of fresh vegetables. This dish revives summer memories when gardens offer the finest vegetables, and meals are filled with joy and color. Zucchini is an excellent source of nutrients, low in calories and rich in vitamins, making it an ideal choice for a healthy diet.

Preparing the salad:

1. Preparing the zucchinis: Start by washing the zucchinis well under cold running water. Use a vegetable brush if necessary to remove any impurities. Trim the ends and slice the zucchinis into rounds about 0.5 cm thick. This thickness will allow the zucchinis to cook evenly without becoming too soft.

2. Cooking the zucchinis: Heat a griddle or frying pan over medium heat. Add the zucchini rounds and cook for 1-2 minutes on each side until they become slightly golden and soft, but don't overdo it, as we want to keep the crunchy texture. Remove the zucchinis to a plate or bowl and let them cool slightly.

3. Preparing the dressing: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, honey apple cider vinegar, honey, and water. Mix well until the ingredients are homogeneous. This simple dressing will add a sweet and tangy note that will perfectly complement the zucchinis.

4. Adding flavors: Wash the green onions and chop them finely. Peel the garlic and crush it with a knife or a garlic press. Add the green onions and garlic over the zucchinis, along with the chopped fresh dill. The dill not only enhances the flavor but also adds a fresh and vibrant look to the salad.

5. Mixing the salad: Pour the dressing over the zucchinis and gently mix, being careful not to crush the rounds. Season with salt and pepper to taste. It's important to mix lightly so that all the ingredients intertwine harmoniously.

6. Serving: The zucchini salad is served immediately to keep its freshness. You can arrange it on a platter and garnish with a few dill leaves for an extra splash of color. It pairs excellently as a side dish with grilled meat, fish, or even as an appetizer alongside toasted bread.

Useful tips:
- Cheese variant: For added flavor, you can sprinkle feta cheese or grated parmesan on top of the salad. This will bring a creamy note and a delicious contrast to the crunchy zucchinis.
- Using leftovers: If you have leftover zucchinis, you can use them in omelets, soups, or even stews. Don't throw anything away!
- Vegan alternative: If you want a completely vegan version, make sure to use honey from plant sources or replace it with agave syrup.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use large zucchinis?
Yes, but I recommend choosing young, juicy zucchinis, as larger zucchinis may have a softer texture and more seeds.

2. Can I replace the dill with another herb?
Sure! You can use parsley, basil, or even cilantro to give your salad a distinct note.

3. What is the nutritional value of this salad?
This salad is low in calories, with approximately 80 calories per serving. It is rich in vitamins (A, C) and minerals, with a high water content, making it an excellent choice for hydration.

4. What drink pairs well with this salad?
It is perfect alongside a glass of freshly squeezed lemonade or a dry white wine, which will complement the flavors of the salad.

This zucchini salad is more than just a simple dish; it's an explosion of freshness and health, perfect for any meal. Don't forget to share this recipe with friends and family, and the time spent in the kitchen will become a pleasant and tasty memory! Enjoy!