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–+ servings

DASH Diet Summer Squash Ribbons with Lemon & Ricotta

This refreshing and nutritious dish is perfect for the DASH diet, combining delicate zucchini or yellow squash ribbons with creamy ricotta and fresh herbs.
It works beautifully as a light side dish to accompany lean proteins or as a vegetarian main course when paired with whole grains like farro or whole-wheat pasta. The bright citrus and herbal flavors make this dish a delicious and heart-healthy option.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine Mediterranean-inspired
Servings 4
Calories 90 kcal

Equipment

  • Vegetable peeler
  • Medium mixing bowl

Ingredients
  

  • 2 medium zucchini or yellow squash
  • ½ cup ricotta cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh mint chopped (plus extra for garnish)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
  • Zest of ½ lemon
  • 2 teaspoons lemon juice
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

Instructions
 

  • Create the Squash Ribbons – Hold the zucchini or yellow squash steady and, using a vegetable peeler, shave long, thin ribbons from top to bottom. Continue until you’ve used most of the squash, leaving behind the core. These ribbons will have a shape similar to wide pappardelle pasta.
  • Prepare the Ricotta Mixture – In a medium-sized bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with the chopped mint, parsley, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Sprinkle in the salt and black pepper, then stir everything together until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
  • Assemble the Dish – Evenly divide the squash ribbons among four plates, arranging them in light layers. Spoon the ricotta mixture over the top of each portion, distributing it evenly. Drizzle with olive oil for added richness, then garnish with extra mint leaves for a fresh and vibrant finish.

Notes

  • Serve this dish with grilled chicken or fish for added protein while keeping it DASH diet-friendly.
  • If you want a heartier meal, toss the squash ribbons with a cooked whole grain like quinoa or whole-wheat pasta.
  • Reduce the salt further if following a stricter DASH diet, or opt for a lower-fat ricotta cheese.
  • Sprinkle toasted walnuts or almonds on top for extra crunch and a boost of heart-healthy fats.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 90kcalCarbohydrates: 5gProtein: 5gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 180mgPotassium: 315mgFiber: 1gSugar: 3gCalcium: 105mg
Keyword dash diet, DASH diet recipes, easy vegetarian recipes, healthy vegetable ribbons, low-sodium side dish, Mediterranean diet squash recipe, summer squash salad, zucchini ribbons with ricotta
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