This raw zucchini caponata salad is inspired by a classic eggplant caponata, but it’s lighter and crunchier. It's a perfect summer salad or a side dish with your favourite protein. This zucchini salad is gluten-free, paleo, Whole30, low-carb and vegan-friendly (just omit the anchovies).
Ingredients
- 4 medium zucchinis courgettes, diced
- 4 medium Roma tomatoes diced
- 1/2 cup Spanish olives sliced, pitted
- 1/4 cup marinated baby capers
- Zest of 1 small lemon
- 1/4 cup spring onions scallions, diced
- 3-4 anchovies finely chopped (omit for a vegan version)
For the dressing
- 1 clove garlic grated
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar or red wine vinegar
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon honey or brown rice syrup (can be omitted)
Top with:
- 2-3 tablespoons pine nuts toasted
- 2-3 tablespoons grated Parmesan optional, nutritional yeast can be used instead
Instructions
- Combine zucchini, tomatoes, olives, capers, lemon zest, green onion and anchovies in a large salad bowl.
- In a separate bowl, combine and whisk the dressing. Pour over the salad and mix to incorporate.
- To toast the pine nuts, cook them in a small frying pan over medium heat for about two minutes, stirring frequently. Top the salad with pine nuts and grated Parmesan if you wish.
Notes
SWAPS: You can take this idea and spin it your own way. Anchovies can be replaced with crispy bacon. Pine nuts can be replaced with ground hazelnuts or almonds.
COOKED VERSION: For a more traditional caponata, sauté the zucchini in olive oil for 4-5 minutes until golden brown. Then toss with the remaining ingredients for a warmer dish.
VEGAN VERSION: Omit anchovies!
AIP VERSION: Replace tomatoes with carrots, fennel or cucumber.
Nutrition
Calories: 253kcal | Carbohydrates: 13g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 22g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 13g | Cholesterol: 4mg | Sodium: 948mg | Potassium: 770mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 8g | Vitamin A: 1123IU | Vitamin C: 46mg | Calcium: 86mg | Iron: 2mg
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