Squash Ribbon Salad with Goat Cheese

This simple salad is a great way to use the abundance of zucchini and yellow squash that is always found in your garden and farmers’ markets near summer’s end.

Ingredients

1 1/2 pounds small zucchini
1 1/2 pounds small yellow squash
6 tablespoons white wine vinegar or champagne vinegar
1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or to taste
1/2 cup julienned fresh mint
1/4 cup julienned fresh basil
2 tablespoons minced fresh chives
6 ounces fresh goat cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup pine nuts, lightly toasted

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the zucchini and yellow squash and cook for 1 1/2 minutes. Drain, and set aside to cool.

2. When the squash are cool enough to handle, slice them very thin lengthwise, using a mandoline or a sharp knife. Transfer the squash ribbons to a mixing bowl.

3. In a small bowl, combine the vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper.

4. When the squash has cooled completely, add the vinaigrette, mint, basil, and chives. Toss gently to combine. Crumble the goat cheese over the top, sprinkle with the pine nuts, and serve immediately.

Yield: 8 servings