Zucchini Noodle Salad with Basil Olive Oil Dressing

Looking for a light and refreshing meal that’s perfect for summer? This zucchini noodle salad is just the ticket! With the vibrant flavors of fresh basil, sweet cherry tomatoes, and succulent grilled shrimp, you’ll feel like you’re dining al fresco, no matter where you are.

This dish is not just about good looks; it’s also incredibly flavorful. The basil olive oil dressing brings everything together, adding a hint of richness that beautifully complements the crunchy zucchini and tender shrimp. And let’s not forget the toasted pine nuts for that extra crunch!

Whether you’re trying to eat healthier or simply looking for a quick meal, this zucchini noodle salad is a fantastic option. It’s light yet satisfying, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or leisurely weekend lunches.

Embracing Summer with Zucchini Noodle Salad

When the weather warms up, a light and refreshing meal is often what we crave. This zucchini noodle salad perfectly captures that essence. With its colorful presentation and delightful flavors, it’s an ideal dish for summer gatherings or quiet dinners at home.

The spiralized zucchini adds a unique twist, transforming a traditional salad into something visually appealing. Paired with juicy cherry tomatoes and succulent grilled shrimp, this dish brings together a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that feel both vibrant and satisfying.

A Symphony of Fresh Ingredients

At the heart of this salad are the fresh ingredients that elevate its flavor profile. The zucchini noodles serve as a fresh base, offering a light crunch that sets the stage for the accompanying toppings. Each bite delivers a refreshing crunch, enhanced by the sweet burst of halved cherry tomatoes.

The addition of grilled shrimp introduces a savory element that balances the salad beautifully. As the shrimp cooks, it becomes slightly smoky, complementing the fresh produce perfectly. Topping it all off are toasted pine nuts, which provide an earthy richness that rounds out the dish.

The Art of the Basil Olive Oil Dressing

No salad is complete without a dressing that ties all the flavors together. The basil olive oil dressing is not only easy to prepare, but it also enhances the fresh elements of the dish. With a simple mix of olive oil and lemon juice, combined with the aromatic touch of chopped basil, this dressing brings a delightful herbaceous note that sings of summer.

Drizzling this vibrant dressing over the salad ensures that each ingredient is coated with a burst of flavor. It’s an essential finishing touch that transforms the dish from simply nutritious to something truly enjoyable.

Assembly Made Simple

Assembling this salad can be done in a few straightforward steps, making it a quick option for busy cooks. After spiralizing the zucchini, grilling the shrimp, and preparing the dressing, it’s just a matter of combining everything in a large bowl.

Tossing the ingredients together allows the flavors to meld, ensuring that each component is evenly distributed throughout the salad. This effortless assembly makes it a perfect choice for both entertaining guests and enjoying a quiet meal with family.

Perfect Pairings for Your Salad

This zucchini noodle salad can shine on its own, but pairing it with complementary dishes can elevate your meal even further. Consider serving it alongside crusty bread or a light, tangy cheese to enhance the flavors and textures.

A chilled white wine or a refreshing iced tea can be delightful beverage options that harmonize with the salad’s fresh profile. These pairings help create an inviting atmosphere, whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a simple dinner at home.

Nutrition and Serving Suggestions

This salad is not only delicious but also nutritious, making it an excellent choice for health-conscious diners. With a good balance of protein from the shrimp and healthy fats from the olive oil and pine nuts, it provides a satisfying meal without heavy calories.

Serving this dish in a vibrant bowl can enhance the visual appeal, encouraging everyone to dig in. Whether it’s a side dish or the main event, this zucchini noodle salad is versatile enough to shine in various dining scenarios, from casual lunches to festive gatherings.

A Refreshing Zucchini Noodle Salad with Grilled Shrimp

This dish features zucchini noodles that are light and versatile, topped with juicy cherry tomatoes, perfectly grilled shrimp, and a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts. The basil olive oil dressing adds a fragrant, herby touch, making every bite delightful.

Ingredients

• 4 medium zucchini, spiralized
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Zucchini Noodles: Using a spiralizer, create zucchini noodles and set aside.
2. Grill the Shrimp: Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Season shrimp with salt and pepper. Grill for 2-3 minutes on each side, until cooked through. Remove from heat.
3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, chopped basil, salt, and pepper.
4. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine zucchini noodles, cherry tomatoes, grilled shrimp, and toasted pine nuts. Drizzle with basil olive oil dressing and toss gently to combine.
5. Serve: Plate the salad and enjoy this fresh and flavorful meal immediately.

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes

• Servings: 4
• Calories: 230kcal
• Fat: 16g
• Protein: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 10g