This Mediterranean Style Grilled Zucchini Salad is fresh and tasty! With grilled zucchini, tomatoes, olives, and a splash of lemon, it’s a perfect summer dish.
It’s so easy to make, and you can toss it together in no time. I love serving it with some crusty bread. It brightens up any meal, and it might even steal the spotlight at the table! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: These are the star of the dish. Try to choose medium-sized zucchini for the best texture. If zucchini isn’t available, yellow squash can be a good substitute.
Olive Oil: This adds great flavor and helps the zucchini cook. If you’re looking for a healthier option, avocado oil works well too and has a high smoke point for grilling.
Fresh Herbs: Parsley brings freshness, while mint adds a lovely cool note. If you can’t find mint, you could use basil or dill instead for a different twist.
Feta Cheese: Feta gives a salty, creamy contrast to the zucchini. For a dairy-free option, try crumbled tofu or a dairy-free feta. I love using a block of feta and crumbling it fresh for better flavor.
Lemon Juice: This brightens the salad. Fresh lemon juice is best, but bottled juice works in a pinch. You could replace some lemon juice with balsamic vinegar to give it a sweeter hint.
How Do You Grill Zucchini without Getting It Soggy?
Grilling zucchini can be tricky, but following these tips will help you get it just right. First, make sure your grill is hot enough. A medium-high heat ensures nice grill marks without overcooking the inside.
- Slice zucchini into 1/4 inch rounds for even cooking.
- Toss the slices well in olive oil, salt, and pepper before grilling to prevent sticking.
- Place them on the grill, and resist the urge to flip too soon—let them cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side.
- After grilling, letting them cool slightly helps maintain their shape and texture. Too much heat will make them mushy!
How to Make Mediterranean Style Grilled Zucchini Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Grilled Zucchini:
- 4 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4 inch rounds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Salad:
- 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh mint, chopped (optional)
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 garlic clove, minced (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Mediterranean salad takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 10 minutes of grilling, making a total of around 25 minutes. Perfect for a quick, healthy side dish or a light meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill or grill pan to medium heat. This ensures that your zucchini gets perfectly grilled with those lovely char marks!
2. Season the Zucchini:
In a large bowl, toss the zucchini slices with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Make sure every slice is coated well; this will help them grill nicely and add flavor.
3. Grill the Zucchini:
Place the zucchini slices on the grill. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes on each side. You’re looking for those nice grill marks and for them to become tender. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning!
4. Cool and Combine:
Once the zucchini is grilled, remove them from the grill and let them cool slightly. In a large serving bowl, combine the grilled zucchini with the chopped parsley, mint (if you’re using it), feta cheese, lemon juice, and minced garlic (if you like it).
5. Toss It All Together:
Gently toss everything together, making sure the zucchini is well mixed with the herbs and cheese. It should look colorful and appetizing!
6. Final Touches:
Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning with a bit more salt and pepper if needed. This will enhance all the fresh flavors.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
The salad can be served warm or at room temperature. If you like, you can garnish it with extra feta and herbs for a lovely presentation. Enjoy your tasty salad!
Can I Use Different Vegetables for This Salad?
Absolutely! While zucchini is the star here, feel free to add or substitute with other veggies like bell peppers, eggplant, or asparagus. Just adjust the cooking time as needed, keeping in mind that different vegetables may require less or more grilling time to become tender.
How Do I Make This Dish Vegan?
To make this salad vegan, simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a plant-based alternative. Nutritional yeast can also provide a cheesy flavor without dairy, and you might want to add some avocado for creaminess instead!
Can I Prepare This Salad in Advance?
Yes, you can grill the zucchini and mix it with the herbs ahead of time! Just keep the salad in the fridge for up to one day before serving. Add the feta and lemon juice just before serving to maintain freshness and prevent the salad from becoming soggy.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To enjoy them again, simply eat cold or reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, but keep in mind that the zucchini may lose some of its texture when reheated.
