Name: Italian Shaved Zucchini Salad with Feta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 3 medium zucchini (shaved into thin ribbons); 2 oz feta cheese (crumbled); 2 tbsp dill (roughly chopped); 2 tbsp chives (finely chopped); ½ large lemon (zested and juiced); 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 1 tsp kosher salt

Jump to Recipe

If you’re on the lookout for a fresh, vibrant dish that feels like a breath of spring on your plate, the Italian Shaved Zucchini Salad with Feta is an absolute gem. This salad combines ultra-thin ribbons of zucchini with tangy feta, zesty lemon, and fragrant herbs to create a dish that is light, refreshing, and utterly addictive. It’s perfect for those days when you crave something simple yet elegant, bursting with texture and bright flavors that celebrate the very best of summer produce.

Italian Shaved Zucchini Salad with Feta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this salad is delightfully straightforward, yet each one plays a crucial role in building that perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color. From the crisp zucchini to the creamy feta, every component shines on its own and together transforms into something greater.

Zucchini (3 medium, shaved): The star vegetable, shaved into delicate ribbons for a tender, palate-pleasing texture.
Feta cheese (2 oz, crumbled): Adds a salty, creamy pop that complements the fresh zucchini flawlessly.
Dill (2 tbsp, roughly chopped): Gives a fresh, slightly citrusy herbal note that lifts the entire salad.
Chives (2 tbsp, finely chopped): Brings a mild, oniony touch that adds depth without overpowering.
Lemon (½ large, zested and juiced): Infuses the salad with bright acidity and a fragrant burst of citrus zest.
Extra virgin olive oil (2 tbsp): Smooths and enriches, melding the salad’s flavors with its lush, fruity undertones.
Kosher salt (1 tsp): Essential for seasoning, it enhances all the natural flavors in the salad.

How to Make Italian Shaved Zucchini Salad with Feta

Step 1: Shave the Zucchini

Begin by shaving your zucchini into thin ribbons. Using a vegetable peeler or mandolin works best here — aim for the thinnest ribbons possible without tearing them. These delicate strands will be the canvas of your salad, offering a refreshing, tender texture that’s both light and satisfying.

Step 2: Prepare the Lemon Dressing

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, and kosher salt until the dressing comes together smoothly. This bright, tangy dressing is the magic that brings all the flavors alive, coating the zucchini ribbons with a lively, citrusy finish.

Step 3: Marinate the Zucchini

Add the shaved zucchini ribbons to the bowl with your lemon dressing and toss gently to combine. Let the mixture rest for about 5 minutes. This brief marination softens the zucchini slightly while allowing the flavors to meld beautifully, making each bite deliciously balanced.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

Transfer the marinated zucchini onto a serving plate or bowl. For a pretty presentation, twist the ribbons into loose circular shapes to add height and interest. Then generously sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese on top, followed by the chopped fresh dill and chives. These finishing touches add a punch of flavor and color that makes this salad truly special.

How to Serve Italian Shaved Zucchini Salad with Feta

Garnishes

For an extra layer of flavor, garnish with a few whole dill sprigs or a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts for crunch. A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil right before serving also adds a lovely sheen and richness. Fresh cracked black pepper can elevate the profile with a subtle heat.

Side Dishes

This Italian Shaved Zucchini Salad with Feta pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or even as a refreshing counterpoint to rich pasta dishes. It’s also fantastic alongside crusty bread for a light lunch or as part of a colorful mezze spread with olives, roasted peppers, and artichokes.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this salad in individual glass jars layered with the zucchini ribbons and feta for an elegant party presentation. Alternatively, use it as a topping for grilled crostini or as a bed under seared scallops for a restaurant-style touch that always impresses.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. The zucchini may release a little liquid due to the dressing, so drain excess moisture before serving again to keep the salad bright and fresh.

Freezing

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, as freezing zucchini ribbons and feta can compromise texture and flavor. I recommend doubling your portions when making it fresh rather than freezing leftovers.

Reheating

This salad is served cold and should not be reheated. If preferred, simply bring it to room temperature before serving to fully enjoy the nuanced flavors.

FAQs

Can I use regular cheese instead of feta?

While feta gives the salad its characteristic tang and creaminess, you can experiment with other crumbly cheeses like goat cheese or ricotta salata for a slightly different but equally delicious experience.

What if I don’t have fresh dill or chives?

You can substitute with fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or mint. Each will add a unique twist, keeping the salad lively and fresh.

How thin should the zucchini ribbons be shaved?

The thinner the better — aim for delicate ribbons that are soft enough to eat easily but still maintain some bite, like fresh pasta strands.

Can I add other vegetables to this salad?

Absolutely! Thinly sliced radishes, cherry tomatoes, or even shaved carrots can add lovely color and crunch without overpowering the core flavors.

Is this salad suitable for a low-carb diet?

Yes, zucchini is naturally low in carbs, making this salad a refreshing and diet-friendly option full of veggies and healthy fats from olive oil and feta.

Final Thoughts

The Italian Shaved Zucchini Salad with Feta is such a delightful way to celebrate simple, fresh ingredients that come together effortlessly. Every bite delivers a harmony of creamy, tangy, and herbaceous notes that feel light yet satisfying. I can’t recommend enough giving this salad a try—it’s perfect for brightening any meal or enjoying on its own when you want something fresh and beautiful. Once you make it, I have a feeling it’ll become one of your go-to favorites too!

Italian Shaved Zucchini Salad with Feta Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 13 reviews

Author: Ethan
Total Time: 10 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Low Fat

Print Recipe

Description

A refreshing and light Italian shaved zucchini salad featuring thin ribbons of fresh zucchini tossed with tangy lemon dressing, crumbled feta cheese, and fresh herbs like dill and chives. Perfect as a healthy appetizer or side dish.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad Ingredients

3 medium zucchini (shaved into thin ribbons)
2 oz feta cheese (crumbled)
2 tbsp dill (roughly chopped)
2 tbsp chives (finely chopped)

Dressing

½ large lemon (zested and juiced)
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 tsp kosher salt

Instructions

Shave the zucchini: Using a vegetable peeler or mandolin, finely shave the zucchini into thin ribbons. Aim for the ribbons to be as thin as possible without tearing to ensure a delicate texture.
Prepare the dressing and marinate: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, and kosher salt until well combined. Add the zucchini ribbons to the bowl and toss gently to coat them evenly. Let the zucchini marinate for about 5 minutes to absorb the flavors before plating.
Assemble the salad: Transfer the marinated zucchini ribbons to a serving bowl or plate. Gently twist some of the strands into circular shapes to create visual interest. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top, followed by the freshly chopped dill and chives to finish the salad.