Summer squash, carrots, red onion, and bell pepper are tossed in a lemon and olive oil vinaigrette, then left to marinate until the slaw softens and the flavors come together. It is a simple summer side dish that works well with grilled meat, fish, or anything coming off a hot-weather cookout.
Add the sliced squash to a bowl. Sprinkle with a good pinch of salt and toss to coat. Let the squash sit for 20 minutes. Rinse the squash with cold water and then drain on paper towels.
In a large bowl add the lemon juice, olive oil and sugar. Stir until the sugar is dissolved. Add the remaining ingredients except the basil and toss to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 3 to 6 hours. Add the basil and taste to see if it needs more salt or pepper.
NOTES
Salt the squash first. Let it sit with salt for 20 minutes, then rinse and drain it well before mixing the slaw. That keeps the finished bowl from turning watery.
Dissolve the sugar in the dressing. Stir the lemon juice, olive oil, and sugar together before adding the vegetables so the dressing coats more evenly.
Hold the basil until the end. Add it after the slaw has marinated so it stays fresher and greener.
Give it time in the fridge. Marinate the slaw for 3 to 6 hours so the vegetables soften slightly and the flavor settles in.
Adjust the texture before serving. If you want a wetter slaw, whisk in a little more lemon juice and olive oil after tasting. Chives or parsley also work if you want to change the herb flavor.