Summer Squash Salad with Avocado & Pine Nuts

Name: Summer Squash Salad with Avocado & Pine Nuts
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: ¼ cup pine nuts; 1 ¼ lbs baby summer squash (zucchini, yellow squash, etc.); 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 1 large lemon, juiced; 2 small avocados; Flaky sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper

Published: June 23, 2025

by Dian

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: This salad comes together in just a few minutes, making it a great last-minute option for busy days.
Fresh Ingredients: Using seasonal summer squash and ripe avocados ensures every bite bursts with flavor.
Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side or a light main, this salad pairs well with various proteins like chicken or turkey.
Nutritious and Light: Packed with healthy fats from avocados and vitamins from squash, this salad is not only tasty but also good for you.
Eye-Catching Presentation: The colorful ingredients make this dish visually appealing, sure to impress at any gathering.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare the Summer Squash Salad with Avocado & Pine Nuts efficiently, having the right tools makes all the difference.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mandolin slicer
Sauté pan
Large mixing bowl
Measuring cups and spoons
Serving platter

Importance of Each Tool

Mandolin slicer: Ensures uniform slices of summer squash, enhancing both presentation and texture.
Sauté pan: Ideal for toasting pine nuts evenly without burning them.
Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space to toss ingredients without spilling.

Ingredients

A simple summer squash salad with avocado, toasted pine nuts, ricotta salata cheese, and fresh chives

Servings: 4-6

For the Salad

¼ cup pine nuts
1 ¼ lbs baby summer squash (zucchini, yellow squash, etc.)
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 large lemon, juiced
2 small avocados

For the Toppings

1 small block ricotta salata cheese
fresh chives
flaky sea salt
freshly cracked black pepper
extra virgin olive oil, to drizzle

How to Make Summer Squash Salad with Avocado & Pine Nuts

Step 1: Toast the Pine Nuts

In a small sauté pan over low heat, add the pine nuts. Toast them until they turn golden brown and become fragrant. Stir often to prevent burning. Once done, transfer them to a plate and let cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Squash

Slice off the ends of the baby squash. Using a mandolin slicer, cut the squash into very thin rounds. You want about 1 pound of sliced squash total—adjust settings until you achieve almost paper-thin slices that still hold their shape.

Step 3: Marinate the Base Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced squash with olive oil and lemon juice. Toss well to coat everything evenly. Let it sit for about 10 minutes so the flavors can meld together.

Step 4: Add Avocado

Cut the avocados into chunks and add them to the bowl with marinated squash. Gently toss to combine without mashing the avocados.

Step 5: Assemble the Salad

Spoon half of the salad onto a large serving platter. Season generously with flaky sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Spoon out the remaining salad.

Step 6: Finish with Cheese and Chives

Crumble ricotta salata over top of the salad. Cut chives into ½-inch pieces (or chop if they are thick) and sprinkle them along with toasted pine nuts over everything.

Step 7: Drizzle Olive Oil

Finally, drizzle more extra virgin olive oil over your beautiful salad. Season again with flaky sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper as desired.

Enjoy your delightful Summer Squash Salad with Avocado & Pine Nuts!

How to Serve Summer Squash Salad with Avocado & Pine Nuts

This vibrant Summer Squash Salad with Avocado & Pine Nuts is perfect for summer gatherings. It’s refreshing, light, and packed with flavor, making it an excellent choice for various occasions.

As a Light Lunch

Pair it with a slice of whole-grain bread for a simple yet satisfying meal.
Add grilled chicken or turkey breast on top for extra protein.

At a Potluck

Serve in a large bowl for guests to help themselves.
Offer alongside other salads and appetizers for a colorful spread.

As an Appetizer

Use small cups or bowls to serve individual portions as a starter.
Garnish with additional pine nuts and chives for an elegant touch.

With Grilled Dishes

Complement grilled vegetables or seafood to balance the richness of those dishes.
This salad adds freshness next to smoky flavors from the grill.

How to Perfect Summer Squash Salad with Avocado & Pine Nuts

To enhance your Summer Squash Salad with Avocado & Pine Nuts, consider these helpful tips that will elevate your dish.

Choose ripe avocados: Ensure they’re slightly soft for easy mixing and maximum creaminess.
Toast pine nuts carefully: Watch them closely while toasting; they can burn quickly if left unattended.
Marinate the squash: Allowing the squash to sit in olive oil and lemon juice enhances its flavor.
Add more texture: Consider including some toasted seeds or nuts for added crunch.
Experiment with herbs: Try other fresh herbs like basil or parsley for different flavor profiles.
Serve chilled: Refrigerate before serving to let the flavors meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Summer Squash Salad with Avocado & Pine Nuts

This salad pairs beautifully with various side dishes, making it versatile for any meal. Here are some delightful options to consider.

Grilled Lemon Chicken: Marinated in lemon juice and herbs, grilled until juicy and tender—a perfect protein addition.
Quinoa Pilaf: Fluffy quinoa mixed with seasonal vegetables adds heartiness without overpowering the salad’s freshness.
Roasted Vegetables: A mix of zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots drizzled with olive oil and roasted until caramelized complements the salad well.
Couscous Salad: Light couscous tossed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a tangy dressing provides a lovely contrast in textures.
Baked Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs wonderfully with the savory elements of the salad.
Herbed Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with fresh herbs like dill or cilantro brings warmth and comfort alongside the cool salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Summer Squash Salad with Avocado & Pine Nuts, avoiding common mistakes can make a significant difference in the final dish.

Overcooking the squash – This can lead to mushy texture. Slice and marinate just until tender to maintain a crisp bite.
Not toasting the pine nuts – Skipping this step means missing out on their rich flavor. Toast them lightly over low heat for the best taste.
Using unripe avocados – Unripe avocados can ruin the salad’s creaminess. Ensure they are ripe and soft for optimal flavor and texture.
Skipping seasoning – A lack of salt and pepper can make the salad bland. Season generously to enhance all flavors.
Cutting chives too thick – Thick pieces can overpower the dish. Aim for thin slices for a more delicate onion flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
Consume within 3 days for best taste and texture.

Freezing Summer Squash Salad with Avocado & Pine Nuts

Freezing is not recommended due to avocado and zucchini textures changing after thawing.

Reheating Summer Squash Salad with Avocado & Pine Nuts

Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10 minutes without covering.
Microwave – Use medium power, heating in short bursts of 30 seconds until warmed through.
Stovetop – Heat gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently to avoid burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding the Summer Squash Salad with Avocado & Pine Nuts recipe.

How long does Summer Squash Salad with Avocado & Pine Nuts last?

This salad lasts up to 3 days when stored correctly in the refrigerator.

Can I use different types of squash?

Yes, you can mix various summer squashes like zucchini or yellow squash based on your preference.

Is there a substitute for ricotta salata cheese?

You can use feta or a vegan cheese alternative as a substitute for ricotta salata cheese.

What should I serve with my Summer Squash Salad?

This salad pairs well with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal or as a side dish at gatherings.

Final Thoughts

The Summer Squash Salad with Avocado & Pine Nuts is not only refreshing but also versatile. You can customize it by adding other seasonal vegetables or swapping out ingredients based on what you have on hand. This delightful dish is perfect for summer picnics or light dinners. Give it a try!

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