This refreshing Creamy Zucchini Salad blends tender slices of zucchini with a vibrant array of vegetables and a rich, creamy dressing. It’s a delightful and nutritious dish that’s perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or as a light meal. Here’s how to prepare this vibrant salad.
Ingredients:
- 3 medium-sized zucchinis, thinly sliced (cucumber can also be used)
- 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 pint grape tomatoes, halved
- 1 bell pepper, sliced into strips
- 1 ripe avocado, cubed or sliced
- 1 1/2 tablespoons baby dill, chopped
- 1/3 cup fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1 tablespoon sugar, or to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Begin by washing the zucchinis, red onion, grape tomatoes, bell pepper, and parsley. Thoroughly dry all the produce to ensure the salad remains crisp.
- Thinly slice the zucchinis and red onion, halve the grape tomatoes, and slice the bell pepper into thin strips. Cube or slice the avocado just before adding to the salad to prevent browning.
- Mix the Salad:
- In a large salad bowl, combine the sliced zucchinis, red onion, grape tomatoes, and bell pepper.
- Gently fold in the avocado, trying not to mash it so that it maintains its shape in the salad.
- Prepare the Creamy Dressing:
- In a small bowl, mix together the sour cream, red wine vinegar, garlic powder, black pepper, salt, and sugar. Adjust the seasoning and sweetness to taste. The dressing should have a balanced flavor of tanginess from the vinegar, creaminess from the sour cream, and a slight sweetness.
- Stir in the chopped baby dill and parsley into the dressing for added flavor and freshness.
- Combine the Dressing and Vegetables:
- Pour the creamy dressing over the vegetables in the salad bowl. Toss gently to ensure all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Chill and Serve:
- For the best flavor, cover the salad and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and the zucchini to slightly soften, absorbing the dressing.
- Give the salad a gentle mix before serving to redistribute the dressing and flavors.
Conclusion:
This Creamy Zucchini Salad is not only beautiful to look at but also a feast for the tastebuds, with its combination of creamy texture and fresh, crisp vegetables. It’s ideal for those looking for a healthy, refreshing, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy this delightful salad on its own or as a complement to your favorite grilled dishes.