Zucchini salad with mayonnaise

Savory Recipe: Zucchini Salad with Mayonnaise

Total preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Zucchini, these versatile and delicate vegetables, are often underestimated in the kitchen. However, zucchini salad with mayonnaise is a simple and quick recipe that transforms zucchini into a creamy and flavorful dish, perfect for any meal. This salad is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients, making it an excellent choice for an appetizer or side dish.

The history of this dish is fascinating, as zucchini has been cultivated for centuries, appreciated not only for its taste but also for its nutritional benefits. Zucchini is rich in vitamins A and C, being an excellent source of antioxidants. This recipe is a wonderful way to incorporate them into your daily diet.

Ingredients:
- 1 kg fresh zucchini
- 1 medium onion
- 200 g mayonnaise (preferably homemade)
- Salt (to taste)
- Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

Step 1: Preparing the Zucchini
Start by washing the zucchini well under a stream of cold water. It is important to choose fresh zucchini with smooth skin and no blemishes. Remove the ends of the zucchini, then peel them with a peeler or a knife, depending on your preference. Next, slice them into thin rounds, about 1 cm thick. This step is crucial, as the thickness of the rounds will affect the cooking time and the texture of the final salad.

Step 2: Boiling the Zucchini
In a large pot, add enough water to cover the zucchini and lightly salt it. Place the pot over medium heat and wait for it to reach boiling point. When the water starts to boil, add the zucchini rounds. Boil them for about 10 minutes, until they become soft but not overly mushy. At this stage, the zucchini should still be slightly crunchy.

Step 3: Draining and Mashing the Zucchini
After the zucchini are boiled, use a colander to drain them well. Make sure to remove all the water so that the salad does not become watery. Once they cool down a bit, you can mash them with a fork or use a food processor to turn them into a fine paste. This is a personal choice, and the texture can vary depending on your preferences.

Step 4: Mixing the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the mashed zucchini with the mayonnaise. It is essential to use quality mayonnaise, and if you prefer, you can make it at home with olive oil, eggs, and vinegar. Add the finely chopped onion; you can choose either white or red onion, depending on your desired taste. Season with salt and pepper to taste, mixing all the ingredients well until you achieve a homogeneous mixture.

Step 5: Serving
The zucchini salad with mayonnaise can be served immediately, but I recommend letting it sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to develop and meld together. You can garnish the salad with a few fresh parsley leaves or toasted sesame seeds for an extra crunch.

Practical Tips:
- If you want a touch of freshness, you can add some chopped mint or basil leaves.
- Substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter and healthier option.
- You can also add other boiled vegetables, such as carrots or potatoes, for a more diverse salad.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use frozen zucchini?
It is recommended to use fresh zucchini, but if you choose the frozen option, make sure to thaw them completely and drain them well before mashing.

2. How can I store the zucchini salad?
The salad can be stored in the refrigerator in airtight containers for 2-3 days.

3. What does this salad pair well with?
The zucchini salad with mayonnaise pairs perfectly with grilled fish, chicken, or as part of an appetizer platter.

Nutrition:
Each serving of zucchini salad with mayonnaise contains approximately 250 calories, being rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Zucchini is an excellent source of potassium and vitamin C, contributing to a balanced diet.

This zucchini salad with mayonnaise is a simple yet extremely tasty recipe that can be adapted to your preferences. Experiment with flavors and textures to create a unique dish that you can proudly serve at your meals. Enjoy!