Grilled Zucchini Salad

This Grilled Zucchini Salad is a delightful dish that combines the freshness of summer produce with the smoky flavor of grilled vegetables. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or a light dinner, this salad features tender zucchini, juicy tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella, all tossed in a flavorful homemade red wine vinaigrette. With its vibrant colors and delicious taste, it’s sure to become a favorite for gatherings or meal prep.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Salad
• For the Dressing
• How to Make Grilled Zucchini Salad
• Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini
• Step 2: Grill the Zucchini
• Step 3: Season the Zucchini
• Step 4: Make the Dressing
• Step 5: Assemble the Salad
• How to Serve Grilled Zucchini Salad
• As a Standalone Meal
• Paired with Protein
• With Crusty Bread
• On a Bed of Greens
• As an Appetizer
• Drizzled with Balsamic Glaze
• How to Perfect Grilled Zucchini Salad
• Best Side Dishes for Grilled Zucchini Salad
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Grilled Zucchini Salad
• Reheating Grilled Zucchini Salad
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use other vegetables in my Grilled Zucchini Salad?
• How do I ensure my zucchini is tender when grilling?
• What should I serve with Grilled Zucchini Salad?
• Can I make Grilled Zucchini Salad ahead of time?
• Is this salad keto-friendly?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This salad comes together in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Healthy Ingredients: Loaded with fresh vegetables and low in carbs, this salad aligns perfectly with healthy eating habits.
• Versatile Options: Customize your salad by adding other seasonal vegetables or proteins to suit your taste and dietary needs.
• Great for Meal Prep: This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge, perfect for easy lunches or snacks throughout the week.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of grilled zucchini and a tangy vinaigrette elevates this dish, creating a satisfying flavor experience.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Grilled Zucchini Salad efficiently, it’s important to have the right tools ready. Here are some essential items you will need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill pan or cast iron skillet
• Baking sheet
• Paper towels
• Whisk or jar with lid for dressing
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill pan or cast iron skillet: These provide even heat distribution for grilling the zucchini perfectly without losing moisture.
• Baking sheet: Helps absorb excess moisture from the zucchini before grilling, ensuring better texture.
• Whisk or jar with lid: These make it easy to blend the dressing ingredients thoroughly for maximum flavor.

Ingredients

This Grilled Zucchini Salad with a homemade red wine vinaigrette will be your repeat meal of the summer! This healthy recipe is ready in under 30 minutes, loaded with fresh mozzarella and tender veggies, and has fewer than 5 net carbs.

For the Salad

• 1 pound zucchini (about 3 medium zucchini)
• 6 ounces tomato of choice (can be 2 medium vine-ripe tomatoes, 1 large Heirloom Tomato, or 2-3 Kumato tomatoes sliced into thin rounds)
• ½ pint colorful cherry tomatoes (8 ounces, halved)
• ½ tsp fine salt
• 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese (sliced into thin rounds and torn in half)
• 8-10 fresh basil leaves (torn right before serving)

For the Dressing

• ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
• 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 2 teaspoons sugar-free maple syrup
• 1 ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
• ⅛ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

How to Make Grilled Zucchini Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini

1. Trim ends off each zucchini.
2. Slice each zucchini into 1⁄2” thick circles on a bias.
3. Line a baking sheet with paper towels and place the zucchini slices on it.
4. Lightly press another paper towel on top of the zucchini to remove excess moisture.

Step 2: Grill the Zucchini

1. Heat a grill pan or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and brush it lightly with oil.
2. Grill zucchini in batches to avoid overcrowding; cook for 2-3 minutes per side until charred.
3. Once cooked, transfer them onto a plate to cool slightly.

Step 3: Season the Zucchini

1. Sprinkle the grilled zucchini pieces with ¼ teaspoon salt.
2. Toss gently using your hands to ensure even seasoning.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

1. In a container or bowl, combine all dressing ingredients: olive oil, vinegar, minced garlic, maple syrup, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
2. Whisk together until well combined or cover the container and shake until emulsified.

Step 5: Assemble the Salad

1. On a serving dish, arrange room-temperature grilled zucchini slices alongside sliced tomatoes and mozzarella slices.
2. Drizzle with vinaigrette (you may not need all of it) and sprinkle torn basil leaves over top.
3. Finish by adding an additional sprinkle of salt and freshly cracked black pepper for enhanced flavor.

Now you have an exquisite Grilled Zucchini Salad that is not only healthy but also bursting with fresh flavors! Enjoy this delightful dish at your next meal!

How to Serve Grilled Zucchini Salad

Grilled Zucchini Salad is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you want to enjoy it as a light lunch or as a side at dinner, here are some delightful serving suggestions.

As a Standalone Meal

• A refreshing option on its own, this salad is filling due to the fresh mozzarella and grilled zucchini.

Paired with Protein

• Serve alongside grilled chicken or shrimp for a complete meal that’s packed with flavor and nutrients.

With Crusty Bread

• Accompany your salad with slices of crusty bread for a satisfying crunch. This adds an enjoyable texture contrast.

On a Bed of Greens

• Place the salad on a bed of arugula or mixed greens to elevate the dish. This adds extra nutrients and makes for a vibrant presentation.

As an Appetizer

• Offer small portions as an appetizer at gatherings. It’s light yet delicious, making it an excellent starter.

Drizzled with Balsamic Glaze

• For added sweetness and depth, drizzle balsamic glaze over the salad right before serving. This enhances flavors beautifully.

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How to Perfect Grilled Zucchini Salad

To ensure that your Grilled Zucchini Salad turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Choose fresh ingredients: Opt for fresh zucchini, ripe tomatoes, and high-quality mozzarella to enhance flavor.
• Avoid overcrowding: When grilling zucchini, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. This allows for even cooking and better char.
• Adjust seasoning: Feel free to modify salt and pepper amounts based on your taste preferences for a personalized touch.
• Let it rest: Allow the grilled zucchini to cool slightly before adding it to the salad. This helps maintain its texture.
• Use homemade dressing: Making your own vinaigrette ensures fresher flavors compared to store-bought options.
• Garnish creatively: Consider adding nuts or seeds for crunch or other herbs like parsley for more flavor variety.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Zucchini Salad

Grilled Zucchini Salad pairs wonderfully with several side dishes, making your meal even more enjoyable. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy bread infused with garlic butter complements the freshness of the salad beautifully.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty quinoa pilaf adds protein and fiber, making your meal heartier without overshadowing the salad.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring out caramelized flavors that pair well with grilled zucchini.
4. Couscous Salad: A light couscous salad tossed with lemon juice and herbs offers a refreshing contrast.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice or beans create an eye-catching presentation alongside your salad.
6. Caprese Skewers: These skewers made with mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil echo flavors from the salad for a cohesive meal experience.
7. Mediterranean Pasta Salad: A simple pasta salad dressed in olive oil and vinegar acts as a filling complement without being too heavy.
8. Hummus Platter: Serve hummus with pita chips and veggies for dipping; it’s a healthy option that balances well with the salad’s flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Grilled Zucchini Salad is easy, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Overcrowding the Grill: When grilling zucchini, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. This can lead to uneven cooking and steaming instead of grilling. Cook in batches for the best results.

• Skipping the Salting Step: Forgetting to sprinkle salt on the grilled zucchini can result in bland flavors. A light sprinkle enhances the taste significantly, so don’t skip this step.

• Using Low-Quality Oil: Using subpar olive oil can affect the salad’s overall flavor. Opt for high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the dressing to elevate your dish.

• Not Letting Ingredients Rest: Serving immediately after grilling can cause everything to be too hot. Allow your grilled zucchini and tomatoes to come to room temperature before assembling for a better balance of flavors.

• Ignoring Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil adds a vibrant touch to your salad. Skipping it will lose out on a crucial flavor element and freshness; add it just before serving for optimal taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Temperature: Keep your salad stored in the refrigerator at or below 40°F (4°C).

Freezing Grilled Zucchini Salad

• Freezing Not Recommended: Freezing this salad can alter the texture of the vegetables, making them mushy upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh.

Reheating Grilled Zucchini Salad

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread salad on a baking sheet and heat until warm, about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish and heat in short bursts of 30 seconds, stirring in between until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring gently until warmed through; avoid overcooking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about Grilled Zucchini Salad.

Can I use other vegetables in my Grilled Zucchini Salad?

Yes! Feel free to add bell peppers, mushrooms, or even grilled corn for more variety and flavor.

How do I ensure my zucchini is tender when grilling?

Make sure to slice the zucchini into even pieces and grill them over medium-high heat. This helps them cook evenly while achieving those perfect grill marks.

What should I serve with Grilled Zucchini Salad?

This salad pairs well with grilled chicken or fish as a light dinner option. It also works great as an appetizer at summer gatherings.

Can I make Grilled Zucchini Salad ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare all components ahead of time; just store them separately in airtight containers until you’re ready to assemble before serving.

Is this salad keto-friendly?

Absolutely! This Grilled Zucchini Salad is low in carbs and perfect for those following a keto diet.

Final Thoughts

This Grilled Zucchini Salad is not only healthy but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding different vegetables or proteins according to your preferences. Perfect for summer meals or as a refreshing side dish, this recipe will surely become a favorite. Try it today!