Made with in-season produce, this Tomato Zucchini Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is a refreshing and nutritious recipe that comes together in minutes with zero cooking! Make it ahead of time as the perfect side dish for barbecues, picnics, weeknight dinners and everything in between!
Salad ingredients and their nutritional benefits:
Cherry tomatoes – Tomatoes are a great source of vitamins C and K, potassium, folate, lycopene, and more. As a result, they may reduce the risk of developing heart disease and cancers.
Zucchini – Zucchini is low in carbohydrates and high in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants including vitamin A, vitamin C and carotenoids. They help contribute to healthy digestion, reduce blood sugar levels and improve cholesterol levels just to name a few benefits. Similar to zucchini, yellow summer squash can be used as well.
Red onion – onions are loaded with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants such as vitamins B, A, C, potassium, iron and magnesium. They can be included in a healthy diet to help improve heart health and boost immunity.
Herbs – Fresh herbs can be used to prevent heart disease, reduce the risk of cancer, increase immunity and reduce inflammation.
Tomato Zucchini Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
Ingredients:
1 pint cherry/grape tomatoes (various colored if desired), halved
2 medium zucchini, sliced into rounds and halved
1 small red onion, sliced
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
4 Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil
1 tsp. minced garlic
Pinch of salt and pepper
½ cup variety of chopped fresh herbs (Italian parsley, basil, chives, dill)
In a large bowl, placed the halved tomatoes, zucchini rounds and sliced red onion. Combine the olive oil, lemon zest and juice, garlic, salt and pepper in a small bowl. Whisk together and pour over the vegetables. Add the chopped herbs and toss again. Serve immediately or store covered in refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Forge is delighted to partner with Laura Rutledge, MA, RDN, CSO, a Registered Dietician Nutritionist who focuses on oncology nutrition for during and after cancer diagnosis and treatment. For more information and recipes from Laura check out Nourishing Plate. You can find additional blogs from Laura on Forge’s blog!