Italian Recipes
Mint & Basil Zucchini Salad with Garlic and Olive Oil
Mint and Basil Zucchini Salad
Category: Side Dishes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Zucchini | 800g |
| Basil | 4 leaves |
| Mint | 4 leaves |
| Coarse salt | 1 tbsp |
| Extra virgin olive oil | To taste |
| Fine salt | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste |
| Garlic | 1 clove |
Instructions:
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Prepare the Zucchini:
- Start by thoroughly washing the zucchini under cold running water. Once clean, dry them using a towel and place them on a cutting board.
- Trim off both ends of each zucchini.
-
-
Slice the Zucchini:
- Cut each zucchini in half lengthwise.
- Then, slice each half into thin strips for a more delicate texture, ensuring even pieces for uniform cooking.
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Boil the Zucchini:
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil, adding a tablespoon of coarse salt to the water.
- Once the water is boiling, carefully add the sliced zucchini and let them cook for about 2-3 minutes, just enough to soften slightly while maintaining their vibrant green color.
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Drain and Set Aside:
- After the zucchini is blanched, transfer the slices to a baking dish. This will help the zucchini to cool and retain its texture.
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Seasoning the Zucchini:
- Drizzle the zucchini slices with a generous amount of extra virgin olive oil.
- Season with fine salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Add a peeled garlic clove to infuse the salad with its flavor.
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Add Fresh Herbs:
- Tear the fresh mint and basil leaves into smaller pieces and scatter them over the zucchini. This will enhance the aromatic flavor of the salad.
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Toss and Serve:
- Gently toss everything together with a fork, ensuring the zucchini is evenly coated with the oil and herbs.
- Let the salad rest for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld before serving.
Enjoy this fresh and vibrant Mint and Basil Zucchini Salad as a perfect side dish to complement any meal, offering a light, fragrant, and healthy touch to your plate.
