This Mediterranean Style Grilled Zucchini Salad is fresh and colorful, mixing tasty grilled zucchini, juicy tomatoes, and zesty olives. A perfect side for any meal!
I love how this salad is light but filling. It’s great for summer days, and believe me, the smell of grilled veggies will have everyone rushing to the table! 😄
Plus, it’s super easy to make—just grill the veggies, toss in some herbs, and enjoy a delightful salad that’s both healthy and delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: These are the star of the salad! You want medium zucchinis, which are tender and flavorful. If zucchini isn’t available, try yellow squash as a substitute; they have a similar texture.
Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for a richer flavor. If you’re out of olive oil, avocado oil is a great alternative that stands up well to grilling.
Feta Cheese: This crumbly cheese adds a nice salty kick to the salad. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using crumbled tofu with nutritional yeast for a flavorsome substitute.
Parsley: Fresh parsley brightens the dish, but if you’re not a fan, basil or mint can also provide a great flavor. Just chop them up finely!
Garlic: Fresh garlic can enhance the flavor, but if you’re short on time, garlic powder works just fine. If you love garlic, feel free to add more!
How Do I Grill Zucchini Perfectly?
Grilling zucchini gives it a delicious smoky flavor, but achieving the right texture takes some care. Here’s how to do it:
- Make sure to slice the zucchini into even rounds — about 1/4-inch thick — to ensure they cook evenly.
- Coat the zucchini well in oil and seasoning to prevent sticking and enhance flavor.
- Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat before adding the zucchini. This helps create those desirable grill marks.
- Grill for 3-4 minutes on each side. Look for nice char marks, but don’t overcook them or they’ll become mushy.
- Let the zucchini cool slightly before mixing it with other ingredients; this will keep them from becoming soggy.
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 salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (or 2 cloves garlic, minced)
- 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad will take you about 10 minutes for preparation and another 8-10 minutes for grilling, making a total of about 20 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick, fresh, and perfect for a sunny day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. This ensures the zucchini gets that nice char and smoky flavor.
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
In a large bowl, add the sliced zucchini. Pour in the olive oil, and sprinkle with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder (or minced garlic). Toss everything together nicely so that each slice is well coated with the seasoning.
3. Grill the Zucchini:
Place the zucchini slices on the grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side. Keep an eye on them until they are beautifully charred and tender, but not mushy!
4. Cool the Grilled Zucchini:
Once done, carefully take the grilled zucchini off the grill and set it aside to cool slightly. This will make it easier to mix with the other ingredients.
5. Combine Ingredients:
In a serving bowl, mix the grilled zucchini with chopped parsley, crumbled feta cheese, and the juice of one lemon. If you like a bit of kick, add the optional red pepper flakes for some heat.
6. Toss and Serve:
Toss everything gently to combine. Taste your salad and adjust the seasoning with a little more salt and pepper if needed. You can serve this salad warm or at room temperature—whichever you prefer!
Enjoy your Mediterranean Style Grilled Zucchini Salad as a delightful side dish or a light main course!
Can I Use Other Types of Squash in This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you can’t find zucchini, yellow squash or even eggplant can be delicious substitutes. Just be sure to slice them into similar thicknesses for even grilling. Adjust the cooking time slightly if needed, as different squashes may cook at varying rates.
How Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Making this salad vegan is simple! Just omit the feta cheese or substitute it with a plant-based feta or creamy avocado for added richness. The flavors from the grilled zucchini and lemon will still shine through beautifully!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, gently reheat them in a skillet over low heat or enjoy them cold as a refreshing salad!
Can I Add Other Ingredients to This Salad?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative by adding ingredients like cherry tomatoes, olives, or bell peppers for extra flavor and color. Just ensure they complement the existing flavors and adjust the grilling time accordingly if adding new vegetables.
