Zucchini and Almond Pasta Salad
A refreshing and flavorful pasta salad featuring thinly sliced zucchini, cherry tomatoes, olives, Parmesan, toasted almonds, and a bright lemon dressing.
8 Servings
Ingredients
- 1½ pounds zucchini approximately 4 small, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 13.5 oz box of whole grain rotini pasta
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes halved
- ½ cup kalamata olives halved
- 1½ oz Parmesan cheese shaved using a vegetable peeler
- ½ cup slivered almonds toasted and cooled (toast at 300°F for approximately 10 minutes)
- ⅓ cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- ¼ teaspoon salt for the dressing
- 3 large fresh basil leaves cut into thin ribbons
Instructions
Prepare the Zucchini:
- Place the thinly sliced zucchini in a large colander set over a bowl or in the sink. Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of salt and allow it to rest for 20 minutes. This process draws out excess moisture and softens the zucchini slightly. Rinse well with cool water and pat dry using paper towels.
Cook the Pasta:
- Prepare the rotini pasta according to package instructions in salted water. Once cooked to al dente, drain thoroughly and set aside to cool completely before combining with the remaining ingredients.
Assemble the Salad:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the salted zucchini, cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, halved olives, shaved Parmesan, and toasted almonds.
Prepare the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, ¼ teaspoon salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired.
Dress and Serve:
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until all ingredients are evenly coated. Garnish with the sliced basil just before serving. This dish may be served chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
To prepare a gluten-free version of this recipe, substitute the whole grain rotini pasta with your preferred gluten-free pasta. For best results, choose a sturdy variety such as brown rice or lentil-based pasta to maintain structure and texture. Ensure all additional ingredients, including olives and Parmesan, are certified gluten-free, as some packaged varieties may contain additives.