This Mediterranean Style Grilled Zucchini Salad is fresh and tasty! With juicy grilled zucchini, colorful bell peppers, and a splash of lemon, it makes the perfect side dish.
It’s quick to whip up—just grill the veggies, toss them together, and enjoy! I love adding a sprinkle of feta and olives for a boost. You can’t go wrong with this bright, sunny salad!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: This is the star of the show! Choose firm, medium-sized zucchinis for the best flavor. If zucchinis aren’t available, yellow squash works well too—it’s similar in taste and texture.
Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil enhances the dish’s flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, avocado oil can also be a great substitute without losing the richness.
Balsamic Vinegar: This adds a tangy sweetness. If you don’t have balsamic, red wine vinegar can be a good alternative, keeping in mind it’s a bit sharper. You could also try apple cider vinegar for a slightly fruitier flavor.
Fresh Herbs: Parsley and mint add freshness. If you can’t find fresh herbs, dried herbs (like oregano) can work in a pinch, but use less as dried herbs are stronger.
Feta Cheese: This cheese brings tanginess to the salad. If you want a vegan option, try crumbled tofu or even avocado. For a different cheese, goat cheese gives a lovely flavor twist.
How Do I Grill Zucchini Perfectly?
Grilling zucchini can be tricky, but with the right approach, you can achieve tender, flavorful pieces with beautiful grill marks. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by preheating your grill; it should be medium-high. This ensures that the zucchini cooks evenly and develops those nice grill marks.
- Coating the zucchini in the marinade is crucial. It helps in flavoring and prevents sticking. Make sure every piece is well-covered.
- When placing the zucchini on the grill, do it in a single layer without overcrowding. This allows the heat to circulate around each piece.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes per side. Look for char marks and gently press to check for tenderness without overcooking, as they can become mushy if left too long.
How to Make Mediterranean Style Grilled Zucchini Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 medium zucchinis, sliced into rounds
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad will take about 15 minutes of prep time and around 10 minutes for grilling, making the total time about 25 minutes. A quick and tasty choice for a light meal or side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
First, fire up your grill to medium-high heat. This will make sure your zucchini gets those beautiful grill marks and becomes tender.
2. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Whisk it all up until it’s combined and smells great!
3. Marinate the Zucchini:
Add the sliced zucchini to the bowl with the marinade. Toss the zucchini rounds gently to make sure each piece is covered in that delicious mixture.
4. Grill the Zucchini:
With your grill ready, place the zucchini slices directly onto the hot grill. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side. You’re looking for those nice grill marks and the zucchini to be tender. Keep an eye on them so they don’t burn!
5. Serve and Garnish:
Once grilled, take the zucchini off the grill and arrange them on a serving platter. Sprinkle the chopped parsley, mint, and crumbled feta cheese evenly over the top.
6. Add the Finishing Touches:
Serve your salad warm or at room temperature. Don’t forget to add some lemon wedges on the side for a zesty squeeze before eating!
Enjoy your fresh and flavorful Mediterranean Style Grilled Zucchini Salad!
Can I Use Other Vegetables for This Salad?
Absolutely! You can mix in or substitute other vegetables such as bell peppers, eggplant, or asparagus. Just ensure they have a similar cooking time so everything grills evenly.
What If I Don’t Have Balsamic Vinegar?
No worries! You can substitute balsamic vinegar with red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar for a different but still delicious flavor. For a sweeter note, consider adding a touch of honey or maple syrup.
How to Store Leftover Zucchini Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When reheating, gently warm it in the microwave or enjoy it cold; the flavors will still be delightful!
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes, you can easily make it vegan by omitting the feta cheese or substituting it with a plant-based feta alternative. The salad will still be fresh and flavorful without the cheese!
