Fresh Zucchini Salad with Feta and Sesame Seeds

Fresh Zucchini Salad with Feta and Sesame Seeds

Welcome to our kitchen! Today, we're whipping up a delightful summer salad featuring crisp zucchini, tangy feta cheese, and toasted sesame seeds. This recipe is a perfect way to celebrate the season's bounty with a dish that's vibrant, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make.

Ingredients:

- 1 pound zucchini (about 3 medium), cut into ½-inch pieces

- 1 ½ tablespoons red wine or sherry vinegar

- 1 teaspoon honey

- Salt

- ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil

- 3 tablespoons sesame seeds (any color)

- 2 teaspoons dried mint or oregano

- Big pinch of red-pepper flakes

- 3 ounces feta, crumbled into big pieces

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini

Start by cutting the zucchini into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large bowl. Add the red wine or sherry vinegar, honey, and a generous pinch of salt. Give it all a good stir to coat the zucchini evenly. This step adds a tangy-sweet flavor that complements the freshness of the zucchini.

Step 2: Toast the Sesame Seed Oil

In a small skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil and sesame seeds over medium heat. Stir continuously until the sesame seeds turn golden and become fragrant, about 3 to 6 minutes. Remove from heat and quickly mix in the dried mint (or oregano), red-pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt. Immediately pour this aromatic oil over the zucchini and toss to combine. The infused oil adds depth and complexity to the salad.

Step 3: Finish with Feta

Next, crumble the feta cheese over the zucchini mixture. Season to taste with additional salt if needed. The salad can be served immediately or allowed to marinate for a couple of hours. If refrigerating, note that the sesame seeds will soften but will retain their delicious flavor.

Enjoy the Salad

This zucchini salad is best enjoyed as a refreshing side dish alongside grilled meats, fish, or as part of a mezze spread. The combination of flavors—crisp zucchini, nutty sesame seeds, creamy feta, and aromatic herbs—makes every bite a delightful experience.

Storage Tip

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. Just keep in mind that the sesame seeds may lose their crunch over time, but the flavors will continue to meld together beautifully.

We hope you enjoy making and savoring this fresh zucchini salad. It's a simple yet impressive dish that captures the essence of summer on a plate. Let us know how it turns out for you! Happy cooking!

Recipe from NYtimes.com