Introduction
Welcome to our delightful rendition of Shaved Zucchini Salad with Parmesan Pine Nuts. This refreshing and flavorful dish combines the crispness of zucchini, aromatic basil, nutty pine nuts, and rich Parmesan cheese to create a perfect balance of textures and tastes. Ideal for vegetarians or anyone looking for a light yet satisfying meal that can be whipped up in no time!
Tips for this recipe
To ensure your zucchini is perfectly thin, consider using a mandoline slicer if you have one. For the perfect nuttiness and crunch from pine nuts, toast them in a dry pan over medium heat until golden brown. This not only enhances their flavor but also provides an appealing texture contrast.
Why you will love this recipe
The combination of fresh zucchini with the earthy tones of pine nuts and Parmesan creates a dish that is both light and indulgent, offering a refreshing taste that’s perfect for warm weather. This salad isn’t just visually appealing but also packed with nutritional benefits from its whole food ingredients.
Ingredients
1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon coarse kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon dried crushed red pepper
2 pounds medium zucchini, trimmed
1/2 cup coarsely chopped fresh basil
1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
Small wedge of Parmesan cheese
Advised equipment
– Zester (For creating thin shavings or peels from hard ingredients)
– Microplane Grater (For achieving fine Parmesan cheese shavings quickly and efficiently)
– Mandoline Slicer (For precise thin zucchini slices for the salad base)
– Salad Spinner (To remove excess water from washed vegetables like zucchini)
– Cheese Slicer (For uniform cheese slices in the dish)
– Mixing Bowls (Used for prepping ingredients separately before combining them into the salad)
– Chef’s Knife and Cutting Board (Essential tools for cutting or slicing vegetables and other ingredients)
– Salad Plate (Ideal presentation plate for the finished dish)
– Measuring Cups and Spoons (To accurately measure out ingredients like olive oil or nuts)
– Food Processor with Slicing Attachment (Optional, for uniform zucchini shaving if used carefully to avoid overprocessing)
– Pine Nut Roasting Pan (For roasting fresh pine nuts evenly if they are not pre-roasted and specified in the recipe)
History of the recipe
The origins of zucchini as a culinary staple can be traced back to Italy, where it has long been celebrated in various forms. This particular dish with Parmesan Pine Nuts combines ingredients that are native to Italian cuisine and embraces the freshness and simplicity of summer produce. The use of zest and pine nuts reflects traditional approaches to enhancing flavors while maintaining a light, healthful profile.
Fun facts about this recipe
Did you know that pine nuts have been cherished for their rich, buttery taste since ancient times? They were even considered a symbol of fertility and prosperity in various cultures! Shaved Zucchini Salad with Parmesan Pine Nuts marries the classic Italian flavors with a contemporary twist. The dish is not only delicious but also adaptable, making it perfect for seasonal variations or personalizing to taste preferences.
