I make this Raw Zucchini Salad with Creamy Feta Dressing when I want something fresh, crisp, and full of bright flavor. The thinly sliced zucchini stays tender yet refreshing, while the creamy feta dressing adds a rich, tangy contrast. It’s light, simple, and perfect for warm days or as a fresh side dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it highlights zucchini in its natural, raw state. The texture is delicate and slightly crisp, which pairs beautifully with the smooth feta dressing.
I also appreciate how quickly it comes together. There’s no cooking involved, so I can prepare it in minutes. It’s fresh, flavorful, and incredibly easy.
Ingredients
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3 medium zucchini, thinly sliced or shaved into ribbons
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1/4 small red onion, very thinly sliced
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1/4 cup toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts (optional)
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2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or basil
For the creamy feta dressing:
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1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
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1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
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1 clove garlic, minced
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Salt, to taste
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Black pepper, to taste
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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I wash and dry the zucchini, then slice it very thinly using a knife or vegetable peeler to create ribbons.
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I place the zucchini and red onion in a large bowl.
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In a separate bowl, I mix together the crumbled feta, Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.
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I pour the dressing over the zucchini and gently toss until evenly coated.
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I sprinkle toasted pine nuts and fresh herbs over the top before serving.
Servings and Timing
I get about 4 servings from this recipe.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 0 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Variations
I sometimes add halved cherry tomatoes for extra color and sweetness. If I want a little heat, I sprinkle in red pepper flakes.
For a dairy-free version, I use a plant-based feta alternative and dairy-free yogurt. I also enjoy adding thin cucumber slices for extra crunch.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Since this is a raw salad, I don’t reheat it. I give it a gentle toss before serving again.
FAQs
Do I need to salt the zucchini first?
I don’t usually salt it, but if I want less moisture, I lightly salt and let it sit for 10 minutes before patting dry.
Can I make the dressing ahead of time?
Yes, I prepare the dressing up to a day in advance and refrigerate it until ready to use.
How thin should I slice the zucchini?
I slice it as thin as possible so it becomes tender and absorbs the dressing well.
Can I use another cheese instead of feta?
Yes, I sometimes use goat cheese for a similar creamy, tangy flavor.
What can I serve this with?
I like serving it alongside grilled chicken, fish, or as part of a light summer meal.
Conclusion
I love how this Raw Zucchini Salad with Creamy Feta Dressing brings together crisp vegetables and rich, tangy flavor in such a simple way. It’s fresh, quick to prepare, and perfect when I want a light yet satisfying dish. Whenever I need an easy salad that feels vibrant and wholesome, this is one of my favorites to make.
Print
Raw Zucchini Salad with Creamy Feta Dressing
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Raw Zucchini Salad with Creamy Feta Dressing is a fresh, crisp, and vibrant dish featuring thinly sliced zucchini tossed in a rich, tangy feta and Greek yogurt dressing. Light yet flavorful, this no-cook salad is perfect for warm days or as a refreshing side.
Ingredients
- 3 medium zucchini, thinly sliced or shaved into ribbons
- 1/4 small red onion, very thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or basil
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Wash and thoroughly dry the zucchini, then slice very thinly using a sharp knife or vegetable peeler to create ribbons.
- Place the sliced zucchini and thinly sliced red onion in a large bowl.
- In a separate bowl, combine crumbled feta, Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Pour the dressing over the zucchini mixture and gently toss until evenly coated.
- Sprinkle toasted pine nuts or walnuts and fresh herbs over the top before serving.
Notes
- For less moisture, lightly salt the zucchini and let it sit for 10 minutes, then pat dry before dressing.
- Add halved cherry tomatoes for extra color and sweetness.
- Sprinkle red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- For a dairy-free version, use plant-based feta and dairy-free yogurt.
- Add thin cucumber slices for extra crunch.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days and toss gently before serving again.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 420 mg
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg
