This Mediterranean Style Grilled Zucchini Salad is a fresh and tasty mix of grilled zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and a sprinkle of feta cheese. It’s bright, colorful, and perfect for warm days!
I love how easy it is to whip up this salad! Just grill, toss, and enjoy. It pairs perfectly with any meal, or even as a light snack when I’m feeling munchy. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Choose medium-sized zucchinis for the best flavor and texture. If you’re running low, yellow squash is a great substitute. Both may be grilled the same way and will taste delicious!
Olive Oil: I recommend extra virgin olive oil for its rich flavor. If you’re out, feel free to use avocado oil or even canola oil in a pinch, although the flavor won’t be as robust.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds a wonderful creaminess. If you’re not a fan or need a dairy-free option, try crumbled tofu, or even goat cheese, which has a similar tangy taste.
Parsley: Fresh parsley brightens the salad. You can swap it for fresh basil or cilantro if you’re looking to change things up a bit.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice really enhances the flavors. You can use lime juice instead for a slightly different twist, but I prefer the classic lemon taste.
How Can I Grill Zucchini Perfectly?
Grilling zucchini is simple, but you want to make sure it’s tender without being mushy. Here’s how to do it right:
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat for even cooking.
- Slice zucchini into uniform 1/4-inch rounds for consistent cooking. Thicker slices may need more time.
- Toss the zucchini with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper—this helps enhance the flavor and prevent sticking.
- Grill the zucchini for about 3-4 minutes per side. Keep an eye on it; cook until you see nice grill marks and it’s tender.
- Let the zucchini cool slightly before serving to retain its shape and keep it from getting too soft.
How to Make Mediterranean Style Grilled Zucchini Salad?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 lemon, juiced
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 10-15 minutes to grill the zucchini. All in all, you’ll be enjoying your delicious grilled zucchini salad in about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures that your zucchini will cook nicely and get those beautiful grill marks.
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
In a large bowl, toss the sliced zucchini with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure each slice is well coated with the mixture to enhance flavor.
3. Grill the Zucchini:
Once your grill is hot, place the zucchini slices directly on it. Grill them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until you see nice grill marks and the zucchini is tender. When they’re done, take them off the grill and let them cool for a few minutes.
4. Arrange the Zucchini:
On a serving dish, arrange the grilled zucchini slices in a pretty pattern. This adds a nice touch to your presentation!
5. Make the Dressing:
In another bowl, mix together the chopped parsley, crumbled feta cheese, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. This mixture adds a fresh and tangy flavor that complements the zucchini perfectly.
6. Combine the Salad:
Pour the parsley mixture over the grilled zucchini. Gently toss everything together so that the zucchini is evenly coated. Be careful not to break the zucchini slices.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Mediterranean Style Grilled Zucchini Salad is ready! Serve it warm or let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes to let the flavors blend. Enjoy this tasty and healthy dish!
Can I Use Other Vegetables Instead of Zucchini?
Absolutely! While zucchini is perfect for grilling, you can substitute with other vegetables like bell peppers, eggplant, or yellow squash. Just make sure to cut them into similar thickness for even cooking!
How Do I Store Leftover Grilled Zucchini Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can enjoy it cold or at room temperature. Just give it a little stir before serving!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the grilled zucchini and the parsley mixture in advance! Just keep them separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain the freshness of the vegetables and the crumbled feta. The salad can be assembled just a few hours before serving.
What Can I Use Instead of Feta Cheese?
If you’re looking for a substitute for feta, try goat cheese or a dairy-free feta alternative. Or, you could skip the cheese altogether and use roasted chickpeas for added protein and a satisfying texture!
