5-Ingredient Zucchini Ribbon Salad (Ready in 20 Minutes!)

A light and refreshing Mediterranean Zucchini Ribbon Salad made with just 5 ingredients and ready in 20 minutes! Tossed with za’atar vinaigrette, tomatoes, olives, and feta — the perfect healthy side dish.

5-Ingredient Zucchini Ribbon Salad (Ready in 20 Minutes!)

I’m back with another 5-ingredient weeknight wonder — and this one is bringing major fresh and sunny Mediterranean vibes to the table! I'm loving these quick, uncomplicated recipes for my weeknight meals because I'm just too tired to tackle anything complex at the moment.  However, I do want something beautiful and delicious on my plate.

That’s exactly why this Zucchini Ribbon Salad is such a side dish lifesaver. Cutting the zucchini into ribbons feels fancy (but really takes zero extra effort), and the za’atar vinaigrette gives everything a herby, zesty punch. Add juicy cherry tomatoes, salty olives, and creamy feta and serve it alongside some Mediterranean seasoned grilled chicken — and suddenly dinner feels like it came straight from a seaside cafe.

And did I mention that it is a no cook dish?  The zucchini is raw, but not to worry as the thin slices make it tender and the taste is crisp and fresh.  This is a great weeknight-friendly dish that can accompany so many main dishes.   A total win in my book!

Enjoy!

What Ingredients Do I Need?

Just 5 simple ingredients turning into a stunning, fresh salad!

• Zucchini - Tender ribbons make the salad feel elegant — and they soak up every bit of flavor.

• Cherry Tomatoes - A burst of juicy sweetness to balance the savory ingredients.

• Kalamata Olives - Briney + bold — a little goes a long way in adding rich Mediterranean flavor.

• Feta Cheese - Creamy and salty crumbles give this salad its finishing touch.

• Za’atar Vinaigrette - Just olive oil, vinegar, and za’atar — bright, herbaceous, and effortless.

Substitutions & Variations

Sometimes you don’t have exactly what a recipe calls for — or you just want to mix it up a bit! Here are some easy substitutions and fun variations for the Zucchini Ribbon Salad:

Ingredient Swaps

Not everything has to be exactly as listed — these swaps work beautifully:

• Feta Cheese: Don’t have feta? No problem! Goat cheese or shaved Parmesan are both delicious alternatives that still give you that creamy, salty punch.

• Kalamata Olives: If you prefer a milder olive or want a different flavor, try green Castelvetrano olives or even capers. They give the same briny pop without being too bold.

• Vinegar: Out of red wine vinegar? Lemon juice works perfectly and gives the salad an extra bright, fresh flavor.

Flavor Variations

Want to play with textures or make the salad a bit heartier? Here are some easy ideas:

• Protein Boost: Toss in grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to make it a satisfying main-dish salad. 

• Crunch Factor: Add toasted pine nuts, pistachios, or even sliced almonds for a little extra texture and a nutty flavor. It makes the salad feel even more special.

Kitchen Tips & Notes

Even though this salad is super simple, a few quick tips can help it turn out perfectly every time:

• Slice zucchini ribbons carefully: Use a vegetable peeler or a mandoline for thin, even ribbons. If they’re too thick, they can be a bit tough, and if too thin, they may wilt too quickly.

• Pat zucchini dry if needed: If your zucchini is very watery, lightly pat the ribbons with a paper towel to keep the salad crisp.

• Make the vinaigrette ahead: The za’atar vinaigrette can be whisked together a few hours in advance — just toss the zucchini ribbons right before serving to prevent sogginess.

• Serve fresh: This salad is best eaten within 2 hours of assembly — it’s all about that fresh, crisp zucchini texture.

       Set the Mood       

Want to create a fresh Mediterranean moment at home?

Then let the vibe match the flavors—here’s how to set the mood while you serve up this bright and breezy Zucchini Ribbon Salad.

     5-Ingredient Meal Series     

Looking for quick, flavorful meals that require minimal effort? Here’s the full lineup of 5-Ingredient Meals in this series — each designed to be ready in 20–30 minutes, packed with flavor, and perfect for busy weeknights:

5-Ingredient Steak Salad with Avocado (Ready in 30 Minutes!) - Juicy grilled steak paired with Southwestern-style salad kit, black beans, avocado, and bell peppers.

5-Ingredient Caesar Pasta Salad (Ready in 30 Minutes!) - Mini farfalle pasta tossed with Caesar salad kit, salami, pepperoncini, red onion, and Parmesan-crouton topping.

5-Ingredient Asian-Inspired Kohlrabi & Cabbage Slaw (Ready in 30 Minutes!) - Crisp kohlrabi and cabbage with a zesty chili-peanut dressing, lime, and cilantro — perfect for a refreshing side.

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    RECIPE IS DOWN BELOW👇     

5-Ingredient Asian-Inspired Kohlrabi & Cabbage Slaw (Ready in 30 Minutes!)

This 5-Ingredient Asian-Inspired Kohlrabi & Cabbage Slaw comes together in just 30 minutes! With a zesty chili-peanut dressing, crisp kohlrabi, cabbage, and fresh cilantro, it’s a quick, flavorful, and healthy side dish perfect for weeknight meals.

5-Ingredient Asian-Inspired Kohlrabi & Cabbage Slaw (Ready in 30 Minutes!)

I’m bringing you another 5-Ingredient Meal! After how much you loved the 5-Ingredient Steak Salad with Avocado and the Caesar Pasta Salad, I couldn’t wait to share a fresh, crunchy side dish that’s just as easy to toss together.

This Asian-inspired Kohlrabi & Cabbage Slaw is vibrant, flavorful, and comes together in about 30 minutes. A few simple ingredients — kohlrabi, red cabbage, lime, and a peanut sauce (either store-bought or use my quick homemade version included with the recipe)  — create a crunchy, tangy, and slightly spicy slaw that pairs perfectly with just about any weeknight dinner.

What I love most is that it’s a complete flavor punch with almost no effort: nutty, zesty, and refreshing, with a hint of heat from chili and the brightness of lime.  It's the perfect side dish to an Asian style meal.  Just throw together a stir fry or grill some teriyaki steak or chicken and you'll have a healthy side dish that makes weeknight cooking feel effortless.

Enjoy!

What Ingredients Do I Need?

• Kohlrabi: Crisp and slightly sweet, this veggie gives the slaw a satisfying crunch. Cut into matchsticks for easy tossing.

• Red Cabbage: Thinly sliced for color, crunch, and a tangy contrast to the peanut sauce.

• Lime: Zest and juice add bright acidity to balance the nutty peanut flavor.

• Peanut Sauce: Can be store-bought or my easy homemade version; adds richness, creaminess, and a hint of spice.

• Salt & Pepper: Simple seasoning that brings all the flavors together.

• Optional Garnish — Cilantro: Adds freshness and a pop of green for visual appeal.

Substitutions & Variations

Simple Ingredient Swaps

• Kohlrabi: Substitute with jicama, cucumber, or carrots for similar crunch.

• Red Cabbage: Use Napa cabbage, green cabbage, or even a bagged slaw mix.

• Peanut Sauce: Try almond butter or cashew butter sauce as a nutty alternative.

Variations

• Crunchy Thai-Style Slaw: Add thinly sliced bell peppers and a sprinkle of toasted peanuts for extra texture and flavor.

• Protein Boost Slaw: Toss in cooked shrimp, shredded chicken, or edamame to turn it into a full meal.

Kitchen Tips & Notes

• Toss Just Before Serving: Keeps the kohlrabi and cabbage crisp.

• Prep Ahead: Slice the vegetables and make the peanut sauce ahead of time. Add lime and toss only when ready to serve.

• Adjust Spice: Add sriracha or chili sauce to the peanut dressing for more heat.

• Storage: Best eaten immediately, but will keep in the fridge for a day in an airtight container.

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    RECIPE IS DOWN BELOW👇     

5-Ingredient Caesar Pasta Salad (Ready in 30 Minutes!)

 

This 5-Ingredient Caesar Pasta Salad comes together in just 30 minutes! With the help of a simple Caesar salad kit, tender pasta, and savory salami, it’s an easy, satisfying weeknight meal that tastes like a deli favorite — without the extra work.

5-Ingredient Caesar Pasta Salad (Ready in 30 Minutes!)

I’m bringing you another 5-Ingredient Meal! My last post — 5-Ingredient Steak Salad with Avocado — was such a time-saver for busy weeknights that I couldn’t wait to share another easy recipe in the series.

This 5-Ingredient Caesar Pasta Salad might just be even easier. It starts with a simple Caesar salad kit and turns into something that tastes like you put in way more effort than you actually did. A handful of ingredients — tender mini farfalle, sliced salami, a few pepperoncini, and some red onion — give it a hearty, deli-style twist that’s ready in just about 30 minutes.

It’s the kind of dinner that checks every box: quick, satisfying, and loaded with flavor. Whether you’re too tired to cook after work or just need something you can toss together without thinking too hard, this pasta salad is a total win for busy nights.

Enjoy!

What Ingredients Do I Need?

You’ll only need five simple ingredients for this Caesar-inspired pasta salad — most of which you probably already have on hand. It’s the perfect mix of convenience and flavor.

• Mini Farfalle Pasta – These little bowties hold the creamy Caesar dressing beautifully, giving every bite a perfect balance of texture and flavor. Any short pasta shape will work in a pinch — think rotini or penne.

• Caesar Salad Kit – The ultimate shortcut! It includes the greens, dressing, croutons, and Parmesan — everything you need to build a classic Caesar base with almost no prep.

• Sliced Salami – Adds savory, salty richness that makes this salad feel hearty and satisfying. Use a good-quality Italian salami for the best flavor.

• Pepperoncini Peppers – Bright, tangy, and just a touch spicy, these bring a pop of contrast that cuts through the creamy dressing.

• Red Onion – Thinly sliced for a mild bite and beautiful color — it ties everything together and gives the salad a little extra crunch.

Substitutions & Variations

Want to mix things up? This recipe is incredibly adaptable — here are a few ways to change the flavor profile or use what you already have.

Substitutions - Simple Swaps

• Pasta: Any small shape will do — rotini, penne, or even elbow macaroni.

• Protein: Swap the salami for grilled chicken, diced turkey, pepperoni, or even chickpeas for a lighter, meat-free version.

• Cheese: Add a sprinkle of fresh shaved Parmesan or even a touch of feta for an extra burst of flavor.

Variations

1: Chicken Caesar Twist

Add grilled chicken (or rotisserie chicken) in place of the salami and toss in a handful of cherry tomatoes for color and sweetness. It’s fresh, filling, and meal-prep friendly.

2: Italian Deli Style

Use an Italian-style salad kit instead of Caesar and add a handful of olives or roasted red peppers. The flavors are bolder and perfect for a picnic or make-ahead lunch.

Kitchen Tips & Notes

• Chill the pasta – Rinse your cooked pasta in cold water after draining to stop the cooking process and keep it from getting too soft.

• Toss just before serving – Mixing the dressing and toppings right before serving keeps the greens crisp and the textures balanced.

• Make it ahead – You can prep the pasta, chop the onion, and slice the salami earlier in the day. Wait to add the dressing and toppings until ready to eat for the best texture.

• Garnish Twist – Take the croutons from the salad kit and crush them up and mix them with the Parmesan cheese from the kit.  Sprinkle that on top of your pasta salad before serving.

• Upgrade the kit – Salad kits are an amazing shortcut, but don’t be afraid to enhance them — a drizzle of olive oil or a squeeze of lemon juice brightens everything up.

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    RECIPE IS DOWN BELOW👇     

5-Ingredient Steak Salad with Avocado (Ready in 30 Minutes!)

After a long day at work, the last thing you want is a complicated dinner. This 5-Ingredient Steak Salad with Avocado uses a simple grocery store salad kit, a quick-grilled steak, and a few fresh add-ins for a fast, healthy meal ready in just 30 minutes.

5-Ingredient Steak Salad with Avocado (Ready in 30 Minutes!)

It’s been one of those weeks where work seems to take every ounce of energy I have. By the time I'm done, the thought of cooking anything that takes more than half an hour feels like a drudgery. Still, we’ve got to eat — and ideally, takeout isn't a plus when you want a good healthy meal.  

So to remedy this I've been choosing from a treasure chest of  5-ingredient recipes that get a little help from the grocery store. Salad kits, and for today's recipe we will choose a Southwestern-style one.  These recipes have become my secret weapon that I will share with you.  First up, a steak salad with avocado.  These ready made kits make it so easy to throw together something fresh, colorful, and satisfying — without chopping ten different vegetables or mixing up a homemade dressing after a long day.

This 5-Ingredient Steak Salad with Avocado is a new favorite. It starts with a ready-to-go chopped salad kit, then gets a boost from smoky grilled steak, creamy avocado, black beans, and bell peppers for a hearty, protein-packed meal. It’s fast, flavorful, and best of all you feel happy and satisfied — even on the nights when cooking isn’t your top priority.  Stay tuned for more 5 ingredient recipes!

Enjoy!

What Ingredients Do I Need?

Here’s a quick look at the flavor-packed ingredients that make this salad a winner:

• Steak – I like ribeye, sirloin, or NY strip for a juicy, flavorful protein. Grilling it quickly locks in all the savory goodness.

• Southwestern-Style Salad Kit – These kits are a game-changer for weeknight meals. They come with pre-chopped greens, a zesty dressing, and crunchy toppings that instantly elevate the salad.

• Black Beans – A hearty addition that boosts protein and fiber, making this salad feel more like a full meal.

• Avocado – Creamy, buttery, and satisfying, avocado adds richness without heaviness, balancing the bold flavors of the steak and dressing.

• Mini Bell Peppers – Sweet, crunchy, and colorful, these little gems add freshness and a pop of visual appeal.

Substitutions and Variations

Basic Ingredient Substitutions:

• Steak: Try chicken breast or grilled salmon.

• Black Beans: Chickpeas or kidney beans make a great alternative.

• Avocado: Sliced cucumbers or roasted zucchini can provide a fresh, creamy texture without the fat content.

• Salad Kit: Try an Asian or Greek Salad kit instead and alter the veggie mix-ins to suit the flavor.  

• Mini Bell Peppers: Carrots, cherry tomatoes, or thinly sliced radishes add crunch and color.

Variations:

1. Mediterranean Twist – Swap the Southwestern salad kit for a Mediterranean-style kit. Add cherry tomatoes and olives instead of bell peppers, and sprinkle with feta for a tangy, savory flavor.

2. Autumn Harvest Style – Replace bell peppers with roasted butternut squash or sweet potato cubes. Add a pinch of cinnamon or smoked paprika to bring a cozy fall vibe to the dish.

Kitchen Tips and Notes

• Don’t overcook your steak: Aim for medium (140–145°F) to keep it juicy. Let it rest a few minutes before slicing.

• Prep ahead: Rinse beans, slice avocado, and chop peppers while the steak cooks to save time.

• Boost flavor: Toasting salad kit toppers or adding a squeeze of lime over the salad can really elevate the dish.

• Meal prep friendly: Keep components separate and assemble when ready to eat — the avocado can be added last to prevent browning.

• Mix it up: Feel free to switch proteins or add extra veggies — this salad is forgiving and adaptable to whatever you have on hand.

• Serve with:  I served this with some roasted butternut squash and a crusty loaf of fresh bread.

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    RECIPE IS DOWN BELOW👇     

Summer Cajun Chicken Skillet – Light, Bold, and Low-Carb

This Summer Cajun Chicken Skillet is your go-to for bold flavor and a quick, low-carb dinner—ready in just one pan and perfect for busy weeknights.

Summer Cajun Chicken Skillet – Light, Bold, and Low-Carb

Sun’s out, skillet’s on—this Cajun Chicken dish brings the sizzle with spicy, juicy chicken and fresh summer veggies in every bite. With golden, spice-crusted chicken nestled among sweet corn, juicy cherry tomatoes, and crisp-tender green beans, every bite feels like a celebration of the season. We try to keep our weeknight dinners on the healthier, low-carb side, and this skillet fits the bill perfectly—big on flavor, light on effort, and easy on the cleanup.

While we haven’t made it to Louisiana yet (definitely on the bucket list!), this dish brings just enough Cajun-inspired heat to make us feel like we’re one step closer. It’s the kind of bold, zesty dinner that satisfies without feeling heavy—just what we crave on warm evenings when turning on the oven is the last thing we want to do. Using fresh summer produce and simple pantry spices, this one-pan wonder comes together quickly and keeps the kitchen cool. If you love a good chicken dinner with attitude, this one’s sure to earn a permanent spot in your summer rotation.

What Ingredients do I need?

Here are a list of ingredients along with a shopping list by category for your convenience.

Shopping List

Produce

• Thin-cut chicken breasts (might be labeled chicken cutlets)
• French green beans (You can use fresh or frozen)
• Sweet corn (fresh or frozen)
• Cherry tomatoes

Pantry

• Olive oil
• Cajun seasoning - I use this brand or this one which you can find in the local grocery store - or choose your favorite.
• Salt
• Black pepper

Substitutions and Variations

Simple Substitutions

One of the best parts about this Summer Cajun Chicken Skillet is how easy it is to adapt based on what you have on hand. Here are a few substitution ideas to make this dish work for your kitchen and your taste:

• Chicken: Thin-cut chicken breasts cook quickly, but you can also use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for extra juiciness. Just adjust the cook time slightly to ensure they’re fully done.

• Green Beans: Swap French green beans for regular green beans, snap peas, or even zucchini for a similar crisp-tender texture.

• Corn: Fresh sweet corn adds a great summer touch, but frozen corn works perfectly too—just thaw and pat dry before sautéing.

• Cherry Tomatoes: Grape tomatoes or chopped roma tomatoes are a great stand-in if that’s what you’ve got.

• Cajun Seasoning: No Cajun blend on hand? Mix up your own with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, and a pinch of cayenne. You can also tone down the spice for a milder version.

• Add a Carb (if desired): While this is a low-carb meal on its own, you can easily serve it over rice, quinoa, or even mashed potatoes if you're feeding a mixed crowd.

Tasty Variations to Try

This skillet is a great base for experimenting with different flavors and ingredients depending on what’s in season—or what’s in your fridge! Here are a few ways to switch things up while keeping it just as quick and delicious:

• Add a Tangy Finish: A squeeze of fresh lemon or a sprinkle of crumbled feta on top adds a bright, tangy layer that pairs beautifully with the heat.

• Spice Swap: Want something smoky instead of spicy? Try a Southwest seasoning blend or smoked paprika in place of Cajun seasoning for a different flavor profile.

• Cheese, Please: Sprinkle a bit of shredded pepper jack or cheddar over the veggies and pop the skillet under the broiler for 2 minutes for a cheesy finish.

• Add Avocado: A few slices of fresh avocado or a spoonful of guacamole on top gives the dish a cooling, creamy contrast to the heat.

• Whole30 Variation:  To make this skillet Whole30-compliant, simply skip the corn and swap in another veggie (diced zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms)
• All the other ingredients are already Whole30-friendly—just be sure to check your Cajun seasoning blend for added sugar or non-compliant ingredients. 

Kitchen Tips for the Summer Cajun Chicken Skillet

• Use thin-cut chicken breasts for quick, even cooking. If you can’t find them, simply pound regular chicken breasts to about ½-inch thickness before seasoning.

• Don’t skip the seasoning! Cajun spice blends can vary, so taste yours before adding salt to avoid over-salting. Feel free to adjust the heat by adding a pinch of cayenne if you like it spicier.

• Blanch the green beans and corn to keep them crisp-tender before sautéing—this step locks in color and texture while speeding up the final skillet cook.

• Fresh veggies make a difference—if you can’t get fresh corn or green beans, frozen works great. Just thaw and pat dry to prevent sogginess.

• Keep the skillet hot when cooking veggies to get those tasty, lightly charred spots that add depth and a bit of smoky flavor. Stir gently to avoid breaking up the vegetables.

• Make it a one-pan meal by serving over cauliflower rice or alongside a fresh green salad for an easy low-carb dinner with minimal cleanup.

What to Eat With Your Cajun Skillet

This skillet is packed with protein and veggies, so it can totally stand on its own—but if you’re looking to round out the meal or feed a bigger crowd, here are some delicious pairings to consider:

• Cauliflower Rice or Zucchini Noodles: Keep it low-carb with a light, veggie-based side that soaks up all those bold Cajun juices.

• Crusty Bread or Cornbread: For those not counting carbs, a slice of warm bread is perfect for sopping up the flavorful pan drippings.

• Simple Green Salad: A crisp romaine or arugula salad with a zesty vinaigrette adds brightness and balances the spice.

• Roasted Potatoes or Sweet Potato Wedges: If you're craving something heartier, roasted potatoes with a dusting of Cajun seasoning are a perfect match.

• Grilled Peaches or Pineapple: For a sweet summer finish, serve grilled fruit on the side or even as a light dessert!

Leftover Remix: Make It New Again

Got leftovers? Good news—this dish is just as tasty the next day, and even better when repurposed into something new. Here are a few easy ways to remix your Cajun chicken and veggies into a fresh meal:

• Low-Carb Power Bowl: Slice the leftover chicken and pile it over cauliflower rice with the sautéed veggies. Add avocado, a drizzle of hot sauce or ranch, and a squeeze of lime for a flavor-packed lunch.

• Stuffed Bell Peppers: Chop the chicken and mix with leftover veggies, a bit of shredded cheese, and a spoonful of salsa. Stuff into halved bell peppers and bake at 375°F for 20–25 minutes.

• Wrap It Up: Roll everything into a low-carb tortilla with a smear of hummus or spicy mayo for a quick and satisfying wrap.

• Omelet or Scramble: Dice the leftovers and toss them into an egg scramble or omelet for a bold, savory breakfast.

    Equipment You May Need    

• 10" Cast Iron Skillet - These are perfect for cooking everyday
• 12" Cast Iron Skillet - A bigger size that will allow you to cook more
• Platter - great for serving

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