ITALIAN ZUCCHINI SALAD

Italian Zucchini Salad image

My husband, Robert, doesn't care much for zucchini, but even he likes this salad, so it's one I make often. The dressing is generous-it can be used on other green salads and even to marinate meats for the grill. I'm always trying new recipes, and I have lots of eager tasters with three children, six grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. I've entered recipe contests many times before, but this is the first time I've had a recipe picked. It's the nicest feeling!

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories Lunch

Time 20m

Yield 12 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 14

Ingredients

2 pounds zucchini
1/2 cup water
2 teaspoons seasoned salt
12 large ripe pitted olives
2/3 cup olive oil
1/2 cup white wine vinegar
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1/2 teaspoon sugar
1/4 teaspoon basil leaves
1 clove garlic
1 avocado
Pimientoor red pepper strips

Steps:

Wash zucchini; cut off ends. Cut into 3/4-in. slices. Combine water and salt; pour over zucchini in saucepan. Cook until tender-crisp. Drain; set aside. , Cut olives in quarters; add to zucchini mixture. Combine the oil, vinegar, salt, paprika, pepper, sugar and basil. Spear garlic on toothpick; add to dressing. Pour over zucchini mixture in bowl; stir gently. Chill overnight. , Discard garlic. Several hours before serving, peel avocado; cut into slices. Add to salad; stir. Garnish with pimiento or red pepper.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 167 calories, Fat 17g fat (0 saturated fat), Cholesterol 0 cholesterol, Sodium 469mg sodium, Carbohydrate 5g carbohydrate (0 sugars, Fiber 0 fiber), Protein 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges