Marinated Zucchini and Yellow Squash Salad

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup cider vinegar
• 4 teaspoons sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, divided
• 3 zucchini (about 1 1/2 pounds)
• 2 yellow squash (about 3/4 pound)
• 1 garlic clove, peeled
• 1/2 cup packed fresh basil leaves
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• 3 ounces part-skim mozzarella cheese, cut into 1/4-inch cubes

Preparation

1. 1. Combine vinegar, sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon salt until sugar dissolves. Trim ends of zucchini and squash; cut into thin ribbons with harp-shaped peeler. Add to vinegar mixture. Cover and chill 2 hours or overnight.
2. 2. Bring a small pan of water to a boil; add garlic. Remove with a slotted spoon after 1 minute. Rinse under cold water; set aside. Add basil to boiling water; immediately remove and rinse under cold water. Reserve 1 tablespoon of cooking liquid. Transfer garlic and basil to a food processor, and add lemon juice, olive oil, reserved water, and the remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt. Process until smooth.
3. 3. Drain squash, and divide among 4 plates. Top with cubed mozzarella, and drizzle with basil oil.