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Three Herb Tomato Zucchini Salad

by Lindsay Cotter Ā· 08/04/2021

GFDairy FreeLow CarbVegan
Jump to Recipe
★★★★★ 5 from 7 reviews
Pinterest image of tomato zucchini salad

Made with fresh summer produce, this Three Herb Tomato Zucchini Salad is Paleo, Vegan, and Whole30-friendly to fit all your needs. Make it ahead of time as the perfect side dish for barbecues, picnics, weeknight dinners, and everything in between! 

overhead image of tomato zucchini salad with lemon and wooden spoons.

This is salad number 2 of Salad Week! In case you missed it, check out Mason Jar salad recipes here. And of course check out our Instagram stories or even more delicious salads!

The Best Tomato Zucchini Salad Everyone Loves

In my opinion, one of the best parts about summer is all the fresh produce that becomes available! With one stroll through a farmer’s market or even your local grocery store, you can find an abundance of fresh watermelon, summer squash, peaches, bell peppers, and so much more. It’s hard not to want to buy them all, especially with recipes like my Cajun Smoked Salmon Zucchini Noodles Salad, Coconut Rice and Watermelon Salad Bowls, and  Family Style Deconstructed Stuffed Bell Pepper Bowls!

I love it all, but tomatoes and zucchini are two of my favorites. Unfortunately, my husband does not agree with me. That is, until it comes to this zucchini salad recipe! Admittedly, he’s not a huge fan of either on their own. However, something magical happens when you combine them together with fresh herbs and spices, and even the most adamant tomato-hater becomes a fan. Even better, this recipe is light, refreshing, and healthy without even trying! 

Close up image of tomato zucchini salad

Ready to learn the secrets? Keep reading to find out what you need, how to prepare it, and more. 

Summer Fresh Ingredients, Their Benefits, & Alternatives

  • 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. I used cherry tomatoes, but feel free to use any you have on hand.
  • Zucchini – Zucchini is 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.
  • Shallot – part of the onion family, shallots 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, relieve allergy symptoms, and boost immunity. However, red onion can be used as well to provide tons of flavor and similar health benefits.
  • Herbs – Fresh herbs can be used to prevent heart disease, reduce the risk of cancer, increase immunity, and reduce inflammation.
  • Sumac – A unique enhancing ingredient, sumac is rich in antioxidants to help reduce inflammation and muscle pain. 
Overhead image of ingredients for tomato zucchini salad.
Swap

Optional Add-Ins

Simple and delicious, this tomato zucchini salad makes for a perfect side dish, but it can easily be bulked up to create a filling meal. To do so try adding a few ingredients such as those listed below. 

  • Protein – Shredded chicken is a great way to add lean protein to this dish to make it a well-rounded and filling meal. However, steak, shrimp, and fish all work as well!
  • Aged or Raw Cheese – For added fats and extra creaminess, try adding mozzarella balls, goat cheese, or even feta to this recipe.
  • Quinoa and Chickpeas – Toss in a few cups of cooked quinoa and chickpeas, and you’ve got yourself a fiber rich plant based meal! Bonus – Quinoa and chickpeas are also high in plant based protein and iron!

How to Make Cold Zucchini Salad

Full of bright colors and coated with an oil marinade, you might think this recipe requires elaborate preparation, but it really couldn’t be any easier! All you have to do is place the sliced tomatoes and zucchini in a serving bowl. 

Then, slice the shallot, and let it soak in lemon juice. This helps tone down the bite of raw onions mellowing the flavor so you can taste all the other superstar ingredients as well! In the meantime, chop the herbs, and combine them in a small bowl. 

Overhead image of zucchini tomato salad in a bowl
Close up image of drizzling dressing on a tomato zucchini salad
Pro Tip

Pro-Tip: To chop herbs with ease, take a look at this video! 

Next, combine the olive oil, sumac, paprika, garlic, salt, pepper, and lemon to juice together in a bowl, and pour it over the tomatoes and zucchini.

Pro Tip

Note: 2-3 tablespoons of oil is sufficient to coat the ingredients thanks to the high water content of zucchini, but if you really want to coat the vegetables like a dressing, feel free to add another tablespoon. 

To finish, add in the shallots (discarding the lemon juice) and herbs, toss the salad, and garnish it with extra lemon slices and salt and pepper to taste. 

wooden spoons tossing tomato zucchini salad in a bowl

Become a Produce Picking Pro

It might come as no surprise that the key to creating the tastiest raw zucchini salad is to use the best produce you can find. So, to make sure you’re not left with a rotten tomato or a bland zucchini, I’m giving you a few of my top produce picking tips. 

To find the perfect tomato, look for one that is bright red and free from any blemishes or bruises. Next, opt for one that feels heavy for its size and feels firm but not hard. You want your tomato to be soft but retain its shape if gently squeezed. If it passes these tests, give it a sniff near the stem and make sure it has an aromatic smell. 

Once you’ve found your tomatoes, it’s time to move on to zucchini. For the best flavor, you’ll want to look for dark green squash that are fairly thin. Ideally, your zucchini should be no bigger than 6-8 inches long. They will also have a smooth exterior free from any nicks or bruises. The freshest zucchini will have tiny bristles of hair that can be removed by simply rubbing while washing under cold water.  

Nutrition Tip

What is Sumac:  Sumac is a flowering shrub that produces large clusters of bright red, pea-sized fruits. There are more than 200 different species that grow all around the world, and the berries are used to make teas or dried and turned into a powder commonly used in Middle Eastern and South African recipes. It has a deep purple or red tone and has a slightly sour or acidic flavor that is used to compliment a wide variety of ingredients such as chicken, lamb, salad dressings, and more. 

Not only is it a tasty ingredient, it also provides a wide variety of health benefits. For example, it’s packed with vitamins C, B6, B1, B2, antioxidants, healthy fats, and fiber. As a result, it can help lower blood sugar, alleviate muscle pain, and improve digestion. 

healthy marinated vegetables salad with tomatoes and zucchini in white bowl.

Can I Use Dried Herbs?  

I do not recommend using dried herbs as it will change the flavor and texture of the dish.

Storage Tips

This recipe is perfect to make ahead of time as a cold zucchini salad. Making it ahead of time will allow the ingredients to chill and the flavors to really soak in. For easy storage, place your zucchini salad in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. 

Prep

More of Our Favorite

Summer Salad Recipes

  • Zesty Mango Spiralized Cucumber Salad
  • Gluten Free Toasted Panzanella Salad Bowls
  • Greek Quinoa Tabouli Salad

Print
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Full bowl of tomato zucchini salad with a striped napkin and dressing.

Three Herb Tomato Zucchini Salad


★★★★★

5 from 7 reviews

  • Author: Lindsay Cotter
  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Yield: 4
  • Diet: Vegan
Print Recipe
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Description

Three Herb Tomato Zucchini saladĀ is the best of summer’s produce made into a healthy marinated vegetable salad! This easy zucchini salad recipe is paleo, vegan, and whole30 friendly.


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes (red and yellow)
  • 1 large zucchini (or 2 small)
  • 1 shallot sliced (or 1/3 cup red onion chopped) – Soak in 2 Tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh herbs combined
    • chive
    • Italian parsley
    • basil
  • 3 –4 Tablespoons Extra Virgin olive oil (see notes)
  • 2 teaspoons sumac
  • pinch of smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic or two cloves
  • sea salt and crushed pepper to taste
  • 1 Tablespoon extra lemon juice
  • lemon slices to garnish

Instructions

  1. Wash and slice your tomatoes and zucchini. Place in a large serving bowl.
  2. Slice your shallot (or red onion) and soak in 2 Tablespoons lemon juice. Set aside.
  3. Chop your herbs and place in a small bowl. Toss together.
  4. Combine your olive oil, sumac, paprika, garlic, salt, pepper, and lemon to juice together in a bowl. Whisk together. Pour over your tomatoes and zucchini.
  5. Add in your soaked shallot slices (discard the lemon juice), herbs, and toss again.
  6. Garnish with extra lemon slices and salt/pepper to taste.
  7. Serve right away or store in airtight container for up to 4 days.

Notes

  • Feel free to use summer squash or larger tomatoes if desired. The more the salad soaks in the dressing, the more flavorful it becomes, but the tomatoes will also become a bit softer.
  • 2-3 Tablespoons of olive oil is sufficient, due to the water content of the zucchini, but feel free to add an additional tablespoon to really coat all the vegetables, like a dressing.
  • Prep Time: 10
  • Category: salad
  • Method: chop
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size:
  • Calories: 84
  • Sugar: 0.7 g
  • Sodium: 586.6 mg
  • Fat: 8.8 g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.3 g
  • Carbohydrates: 1.9 g
  • Fiber: 0.6 g
  • Protein: 0.5 g
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg

Keywords: salad, zucchini, paleo, whole 30, vegan, healthy, tomato salad, herbs marinated

Did you make this recipe?

Tag @cottercrunch on Instagram and hashtag it #cottercrunch

What’s your favorite Summer salad? Best childhood Summer memory? No really, I want to know! I’m sure many of you have some pretty awesome stories!

Cheers,

LC

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Categories: Dairy Free, Egg Free, Gluten Free, Grain Free, Low Carb, Nut Free, Quick Meals, Sides and Salads, Vegan, Vegetarian, Whole 30 Tags: antioxidants, salads, summer salads, tomatoes, zucchini

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Lindsay Cotter of Cotter Crunch

Hi, y'all, I’m Lindsay Cotter, a Nutrition Specialist with a focus on Gluten Free eating. I love creating delicious nourishing food that anyone can enjoy.

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    Recipe rating ★☆ ★☆ ★☆ ★☆ ★☆

  1. wilhelmina says

    02/17/2022 at 8:49 AM

    My goodness, this salad is so yummy! It’s bright and fresh and full of flavor. We will be making it all season long.

    ★★★★★

    Reply
  2. Wanda yalos says

    02/16/2022 at 12:02 PM

    I made this over the summer and loved it. I still make it almost monthly! It’s my perfect lunch.

    ★★★★★

    Reply
  3. Sheila Torres says

    07/25/2020 at 5:25 PM

    This was absolutely delicious! I shaved the zucchini into ribbons. I warmed the garlic in the olive oil to mellow the flavor and it makes a huge difference! I liked the onion in lemon juice trick too. Great use of my garden bounty! Fresh veggies and herbs! Thanks! Didn’t have paprika so tried some cajun seasoning which worked out great!

    ★★★★★

    Reply
    • Lindsay Cotter says

      07/25/2020 at 8:10 PM

      So glad to hear that Sheila! Thanks!

      Reply
  4. Shannon says

    06/06/2020 at 7:02 PM

    WOW! This is going into the meal rotation. Great summer salad – healthy and oh so delicious!

    ★★★★★

    Reply
    • Lindsay Cotter says

      06/07/2020 at 1:42 PM

      Oh I am so glad you enjoyed it. It’s a favorite here too!

      Reply
  5. color switch says

    08/13/2018 at 2:45 AM

    This dish, looks very attractive, I will try it.

    Reply
  6. Gaby Dalkin says

    08/04/2018 at 7:41 PM

    YUM! This has me wishing summer would last longer!

    Reply
  7. Meghan@CleanEatsFastFeets says

    08/04/2018 at 2:30 PM

    Pinned.

    I could look at these pictures for hours.

    Reply
  8. Cassie Autumn Tran says

    08/03/2018 at 6:23 PM

    What a beautifully striking and healthy salad! Tomatoes and zucchini are the best combination in the world!

    Reply
  9. Erin says

    08/01/2018 at 12:45 PM

    So good with the zucchini and tomatoes from my garden!

    ★★★★★

    Reply
  10. Traci | Vanilla And Bean says

    08/01/2018 at 8:35 AM

    Your garden sounds like a dream.. I bet you have so many good memories with your dad there. It’s been years since I had my own garden.. it’s been reduced down to an herb patch, so I can appreciate your herbacious zucchini salad here. SO fresh and packed with flavor. This is how I looove salads! So beautifully captured!

    Reply
    • Lindsay Cotter says

      08/02/2018 at 4:59 PM

      Oh i think we should start our own traveling garden. LOL! yes?

      Reply
  11. Laura @ Sprint 2 the Table says

    07/31/2018 at 8:42 PM

    This is EXACTLY what we need right now. Vegas finally moved in, but she arrived sick AF. Fresh, light meals are the name of the game. Le sigh.

    Reply
  12. Megan @ Skinny Fitalicious says

    07/31/2018 at 1:16 PM

    I wish I could get a garden to grown in Phoenix. Everything just needs too much water!

    Reply
    • Lindsay Cotter says

      07/31/2018 at 3:55 PM

      Oh man, you need one of those indoor gardens, right? Brutal heat! p.s how are you?

      Reply
  13. Rita says

    07/31/2018 at 9:02 AM

    I see 3 garlic cloves in the picture. I also see two different shades of red spice in the picture, I am assuming one is the sumac. However, in the recipe, no mention of how much garlic or sumac to use. Can you please specify, especially the sumac? Thank you.

    Reply
    • Lindsay Cotter says

      07/31/2018 at 9:43 AM

      Just updated it. THANK YOU! Sorry my recipe plugin had a glitch and deleted part of the ingredients.Phew! Glad you got it Rita!

      Reply
  14. Liz S. says

    07/31/2018 at 7:12 AM

    Perfect summer salad! My summer salad go-to involves tomatoes as well (sun-dried or fresh), and asparagus, artichokes, romaine… yum. Favorite childhood summer memory = my visits to Martha’s Vineyard (and I still go there to this day).

    Reply
    • Lindsay Cotter says

      07/31/2018 at 3:55 PM

      Oh I love that memory Liz! Thank you for sharing. Martha’s Vineyard is still on my bucket list!

      Reply
      • Liz S. says

        07/31/2018 at 4:06 PM

        If you do plan to go, you better consult me for my top recommendations! šŸ™‚ xo

        Reply
  15. happy wheels says

    07/30/2018 at 11:17 PM

    This is a great little post with some valuable tips. I totally agree. The way you bring passion and engagement into the things you do can really change your outlook on live.

    ★★★★★

    Reply
  16. Brittany Audra @ Audra's Appetite says

    07/30/2018 at 8:38 PM

    I just picked tons of zucchini AND tomatoes from my garden this weekend, so perfect timing for this recipe!

    Reply
    • Lindsay Cotter says

      07/30/2018 at 8:53 PM

      Oh yay! Keep me posted on if you try this Brittany!

      Reply
  17. Suzy says

    07/30/2018 at 4:07 PM

    I can eat this all day long!

    Reply
    • Lindsay Cotter says

      07/30/2018 at 6:25 PM

      and you so should!

      Reply
  18. Jennifer Blake says

    07/30/2018 at 2:20 PM

    What vibrant pops of color! Love how refreshing this is and so easy!

    ★★★★★

    Reply

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Lindsay Cotter of Cotter Crunch

Hi, y'all, I’m Lindsay Cotter, a Nutrition Specialist with a focus on Gluten Free eating. I love creating delicious nourishing food that anyone can enjoy.

About Ā· Studio Ā· Shop Ā· Contact
Facebook Instagram Pinterest Twitter YouTube

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