Tomato Basil Zoodle Salad

Short description

A light, healthy, and refreshing salad made with spiralized zucchini (zoodles), fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, tossed in a simple balsamic dressing. This no-cook dish is perfect for summer and takes just minutes to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Tomato Basil Zoodle Salad is a vibrant, low-carb alternative to traditional pasta salads. It’s packed with fresh flavor, naturally gluten-free, and incredibly easy to throw together. The combination of juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic basil brings a classic Caprese vibe with a lighter twist. Ideal for picnics, lunches, or a healthy side dish.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 medium zucchini, spiralized

• 1½ cups cherry or grape tomatoes, halved

• 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine), halved if large

• ½ cup fresh basil leaves, torn

• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar or balsamic glaze

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

• Salt and pepper to taste

directions

1. Spiralize the zucchini and place the zoodles in a colander. Lightly salt them and let sit for about 20–30 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Pat dry with paper towels.

2. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.

3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the zoodles, tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.

4. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat everything evenly.

5. Chill in the refrigerator for 10–15 minutes before serving, or serve immediately.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Sweating time (optional): 20–30 minutes

• Total time: 10–40 minutes (depending on prep method)

Variations

• Add greens: Mix in arugula or baby spinach for added texture and nutrients.

• Use pesto: Replace the dressing with 2 tablespoons of basil pesto for a richer flavor.

• Add protein: Top with grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to turn it into a light main dish.

• Change the cheese: Try crumbled feta or goat cheese instead of mozzarella for a tangy twist.

• Try different veggies: Add spiralized cucumber, carrots, or bell peppers for extra crunch and color.

storage/reheating

• Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

• Tip: For best texture, store dressing separately and mix just before serving.

• Reheating: This dish is meant to be served cold or at room temperature and should not be reheated.

FAQs

What are zoodles?

Zoodles are zucchini noodles made by spiralizing fresh zucchini into long, thin strands that resemble spaghetti.

Do I need to cook the zucchini noodles?

No, they are best served raw in this salad for a crisp texture.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, but it’s best to keep the components separate and mix them just before serving to avoid sogginess.

What if I don’t have a spiralizer?

You can use a julienne peeler, a mandoline with a julienne blade, or buy pre-spiralized zucchini from most grocery stores.

Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?

Fresh basil is recommended for the best flavor, but if unavailable, use a small amount of dried basil as a substitute.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes, it is low in carbs and fits well into a ketogenic diet.

How do I keep the zoodles from getting soggy?

Salt them lightly and let them sit in a colander to release water, then pat dry before mixing into the salad.

Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes, feta, goat cheese, or even shaved Parmesan work well as alternatives.

What kind of tomatoes work best?

Cherry or grape tomatoes are ideal because they’re sweet and hold their shape, but any ripe tomato can be used.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. This recipe scales easily for larger gatherings or meal prep.

Conclusion

Tomato Basil Zoodle Salad is a fresh, nutritious option that’s full of flavor and easy to make. With minimal ingredients and no cooking required, it’s the ideal choice for summer meals or light side dishes. Customize it with your favorite add-ins and enjoy a guilt-free version of a classic Italian-inspired salad.