Zucchini Butter Bean Salad with Romesco Sauce for Summer Bliss

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Antoni Recipes Team

As the sun-kissed days of summer roll in, I find myself craving vibrant, fresh meals that celebrate the season s bounty. One of my latest discoveries is this delightful Zucchini Butter Bean Salad with Romesco Sauce. It came about on a particularly sweltering afternoon when the thought of turning on the oven was just too much to bear. Imagine the crispness of delicate zucchini ribbons mingling with the creamy goodness of butterbeans, all wrapped in a luscious, protein-packed Romesco-inspired sauce. No cooking required, just quick prep and a burst of Mediterranean flavors that dance on your palate.

This salad not only checks all the boxes for a wholesome, gluten-free dish but also offers a satisfying protein boost perfect for anyone looking to elevate their summer eating. Whether you re dining solo or planning a gathering with friends, this salad promises to be a crowd-pleaser. So grab your vegetable peeler and let s dive into this effortless recipe that brings a taste of sunshine to your plate!

Why is Zucchini Butter Bean Salad With Romesco Sauce perfect?

Fresh and Nutritious: This salad bursts with vibrant flavors, ensuring your summer meals are both delicious and healthy.

Quick Preparation: With no cooking required, you can whip this up in minutes, making it a breeze for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: The combination of creamy butterbeans and tangy Romesco sauce delights both friends and family, making it an excellent dish for entertaining.

Versatile & Adaptable: Feel free to mix up ingredients, whether it s adding quinoa for heartiness or experimenting with different herbs.

Seasonal Splendor: Capturing the essence of summer, this salad not only looks stunning but also brings the season s freshest produce to your table. Enjoy it chilled for the ultimate refreshing treat!

Zucchini Butter Bean Salad Ingredients

For the Salad

• Zucchini A fresh, fibrous base; use cucumbers for a different texture if desired.
• Butter Beans A fantastic plant-based protein choice; substitute with cannellini beans if needed.
• Fresh Basil Adds herby freshness; parsley can be a great alternative.
• Toasted Pine Nuts Provide a lovely crunch and nutty flavor; walnuts or sunflower seeds can work too.
• Plant-Based Feta Offers creaminess and tang; feel free to use soft vegan cheese or omit for a lighter version.

For the Romesco Sauce

• Jarred Roasted Red Bell Peppers Contributes sweetness and richness; you can roast fresh red peppers at home for added depth.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes These provide a delicious umami flavor; fresh tomatoes are a lighter alternative that works wonderfully.
• Extra Firm Tofu Boosts protein content while maintaining a creamy texture; simply omit for a nut-based sauce if desired.
• Almonds Adds crunch and healthy fats; you might also use cashews for a creamier consistency.
• Smoked Paprika Imparts a smoky hint; feel free to use regular paprika if you prefer.

For the Marinade

• Olive Oil Enhances flavor and adds richness; can be substituted with avocado oil for a different twist.
• Lemon (juice + zest) Vital for brightness and acidity, adding depth to the salad s flavor.
• Garlic Brings depth and aroma; try roasted garlic for a milder, sweeter flavor.
• Salt and Pepper Essential for seasoning to taste, enhancing all the flavors in the dish.

This Zucchini Butter Bean Salad with Romesco Sauce not only captivates with its vibrant colors but also offers a symphony of flavors that will transport you to summer bliss!

How to Make Zucchini Butter Bean Salad With Romesco Sauce

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a large container, combine olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well blended for a flavorful base.

2. Marinate Zucchini: Use a vegetable peeler to create delicate ribbons of zucchini. Toss them in the marinade, ensuring they re well coated, and refrigerate for 1.5 hours to absorb the flavors.

3. Make Romesco Sauce: In a blender, combine the jarred roasted red bell peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, extra firm tofu, almonds, smoked paprika, and half of the marinade liquid. Blend until smooth and creamy, adjusting the texture with more liquid if necessary.

4. Assemble the Salad: In serving bowls, layer the creamy Romesco sauce, butter beans, marinated zucchini ribbons, toasted pine nuts, crumbled plant-based feta, and fresh basil. Serve chilled and enjoy every bite!

Optional: Sprinkle extra toasted pine nuts on top for an added crunch.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Zucchini Butter Bean Salad

Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the Romesco sauce separate from the salad components to maintain freshness.

Freezer: It s best to avoid freezing this salad, as the zucchini may become soggy when thawed. However, you can freeze the Romesco sauce for up to 3 months.

Reheating: If you ve refrigerated the salad and want to enjoy it slightly warmed, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving; tossing everything gently revitalizes flavor.

Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the marinated zucchini the day before and refrigerate to save time on busy days, ensuring you still get that delightful Zucchini Butter Bean Salad experience!

Make Ahead Options

This Zucchini Butter Bean Salad with Romesco Sauce is a fantastic choice for meal prep, saving you valuable time during busy weekdays! You can marinate the zucchini ribbons up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to develop beautifully in the refrigerator. Additionally, prepare the Romesco sauce and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days, ensuring it stays fresh and vibrant. To maximize quality, keep the toasted pine nuts and crumbled plant-based feta separate until you re ready to serve. When it s time to dig in, simply combine all the components in serving bowls and enjoy a refreshing, hassle-free meal that s just as delightful as if you made it on the same day!

What to Serve with Zucchini Butter Bean Salad with Romesco Sauce?

This vibrant salad is the perfect centerpiece for a refreshing summer meal, inviting you to explore delightful pairings.

• Crusty Gluten-Free Bread: Perfect for soaking up the creamy Romesco sauce, making each bite a flavor-packed experience. Serve alongside to enhance the meal s enjoyment.

• Lemon-Garlic Quinoa: A light, zesty complement that adds fulfilling texture and protein without stealing the spotlight from the salad. This pairing brings a wholesome grain element to your table.

• Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Their smoky sweetness enhances the freshness of the salad while adding a fun grilling touch, making it an ideal accompaniment for summer gatherings.

• Chilled Gazpacho: This cold soup s bright flavors mimic the freshness of the salad, creating a refreshing duo that celebrates seasonal produce with every spoonful.

• Avocado Citrus Salad: Creamy avocados and zesty citrus not only contrast beautifully with the salad s textures but also add a burst of flavor that will delight your guests.

• Sparkling Lemonade: This refreshing drink pairs wonderfully with the lightness of the salad, providing a bright and effervescent complement that elevates the entire dining experience.

• Dark Chocolate Almond Clusters: For dessert, consider these as a sweet ending. The nutty flavor echoes the almonds in the salad, while rich chocolate rounds out the meal beautifully. Enjoy!

Zucchini Butter Bean Salad Variations

Feel free to personalize this salad with delightful twists and substitutions that suit your taste buds!

• Quinoa Boost: Add cooked quinoa for a nutty texture and extra protein. This makes the salad even heartier and more filling.

• Herb Exchange: Swap fresh basil for mint or cilantro to bring a new flavor profile. Each herb will lend a different aromatic touch to the dish.

• Chickpea Swap: Replace butterbeans with chickpeas for a different texture, while still packing in the protein. You ll love the variations!

• Nut-Free Option: Omit the smoked almonds and use sunflower seeds instead for a nut-free crunch. This keeps the salad nut-free without sacrificing texture.

• Citrus Splash: Enhance the lemon flavor by adding zest from an orange or lime for a zingy twist. This brightens the entire salad beautifully.

• Creamy Avocado: Fold in diced avocado for added creaminess and healthy fats. It ll elevate the richness in every bite while also boosting nutrition!

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the Romesco sauce for a little heat. The spice pairs wonderfully with the rich flavors.

• Seasonal Veggies: Blend in other seasonal veggies like bell peppers or cherry tomatoes for extra color and nutrition. They ll enhance both flavor and visual appeal!

Expert Tips for Zucchini Butter Bean Salad

• Marinating Time: Allow the zucchini to marinate for at least 1.5 hours to maximize flavor absorption; prepping it the night before enhances taste.

• Fresh Peppers: If using fresh red peppers, take the time to roast them to deepen their sweetness and flavor profile.

• Adjusting Sauce Consistency: If the Romesco sauce seems too thick after blending, gradually add more marinade liquid until it reaches your desired creaminess.

• Mix and Match: Feel free to substitute butter beans with chickpeas or add quinoa for a heartier salad; don t shy away from experimenting!

• Serving Temperature: Enjoy this Zucchini Butter Bean Salad chilled for a refreshing summer meal; it s perfect for picnics or light lunches!

Zucchini Butter Bean Salad with Romesco Sauce Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe zucchini for the salad?
Selecting zucchini that is firm, with a glossy skin and no dark spots is key! Look for smaller-sized zucchinis, as they tend to be sweeter and more tender. If you re opting for cucumbers as an alternative, choose ones that feel crisp and have a vibrant green color.

How should I store leftover salad and sauce?
Absolutely! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It s best to keep the Romesco sauce separate from the salad components to prevent sogginess, ensuring that every bite remains fresh and flavorful.

Can I freeze the Zucchini Butter Bean Salad?
It s not recommended to freeze the entire salad since zucchini can become mushy upon thawing. However, you can freeze the Romesco sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight when you re ready to enjoy it again!

What should I do if my Romesco sauce is too thick?
No worries! If you find your Romesco sauce too thick, simply add a splash of olive oil or more marinade liquid and blend again until it reaches your desired consistency. This not only adjusts the texture but also enhances the flavor.

Are there any dietary considerations for this salad?
Definitely! This salad is gluten-free and packed with plant-based protein. However, if you have allergies, be mindful of the nuts and tofu. You can omit nuts or choose seeds as an alternative for crunch. Always check your ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary needs!

Can my pets share in this summer delight?
While the Zucchini Butter Bean Salad contains healthy ingredients for humans, it s best to keep it away from pets. Garlic and certain nuts can be harmful to dogs and cats. Make sure to provide them a pet-friendly treat instead!