Grilled Zucchini Salad

This Grilled Zucchini Salad with a homemade red wine vinaigrette is the perfect dish for summer gatherings and weeknight dinners. Loaded with fresh mozzarella and colorful vegetables, this light and healthy salad can be prepared in under 30 minutes. Its vibrant flavors and low carb count make it a versatile choice for various occasions, whether you’re hosting a barbecue or simply want to enjoy a refreshing meal at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Fresh Ingredients: The combination of grilled zucchini, ripe tomatoes, and basil brings a burst of freshness to every bite.
• Low Carb Delight: With fewer than 5 net carbs per serving, this salad fits perfectly into a keto lifestyle.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week; it stays tasty even after being chilled.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes preparing this salad effortless. Below are some essentials you’ll need to create your Grilled Zucchini Salad.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill pan or cast iron skillet
• Baking sheet
• Paper towels
• Mixing bowl or container
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill pan or cast iron skillet: These tools provide even heat distribution, ensuring perfectly charred zucchini slices.
• Baking sheet: This is handy for drying the zucchini before grilling, which helps achieve that delightful grilled texture.
• Mixing bowl or container: A good bowl makes whisking the dressing easy and efficient, allowing for better emulsification.

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 the 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 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 with oil.
2. Grill zucchini in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
3. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until charred.
4. Once cooked, set onto a plate to cool.

Step 3: Season the Zucchini

1. Sprinkle cooked zucchini pieces with ¼ teaspoon salt.
2. Toss gently with your hands to distribute seasoning evenly.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

1. Combine all dressing ingredients in a mixing bowl or container.
2. Whisk together until emulsified or shake well if using a container.

Step 5: Assemble the Salad

1. Arrange grilled zucchini, sliced tomatoes, and mozzarella on a serving dish.
2. Drizzle with vinaigrette (you may not use all of it).
3. Sprinkle with torn basil leaves, an additional pinch of salt, and freshly cracked black pepper before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Grilled Zucchini Salad as part of your summer meals!

How to Serve Grilled Zucchini Salad

Grilled Zucchini Salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether as a main course or a side, it pairs beautifully with various flavors and textures. Here are some creative serving suggestions:

As a Light Lunch

• Serve the salad on its own for a refreshing lunch option, perfect for warm days.
• Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein, enhancing the dish’s heartiness.

With Crusty Bread

• Pair with slices of crusty baguette, allowing guests to scoop up the salad and enjoy every bite.
• Drizzle some balsamic glaze over the bread for added flavor.

As an Appetizer

• Present small portions of the salad in individual cups or jars for a fun appetizer at gatherings.
• Garnish with additional basil leaves for a pop of color and freshness.

On a Bed of Greens

• Place the Grilled Zucchini Salad over a bed of mixed greens like arugula or spinach.
• This adds more nutrients and makes it a complete meal option.

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How to Perfect Grilled Zucchini Salad

To make your Grilled Zucchini Salad even more delightful, consider these tips:

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh zucchini and ripe tomatoes for the best flavor in your salad.
• Preheat Your Grill: Ensure your grill pan or skillet is hot before adding zucchini. This helps achieve those beautiful char marks.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Grill zucchini in batches to avoid steaming, which can make it soggy instead of grilled and tender.
• Customize Your Vinaigrette: Feel free to add herbs like oregano or thyme to the dressing for a unique twist on flavor.
• Add Extra Crunch: Toss in some toasted pine nuts or walnuts before serving for added texture.
• Serve Chilled or Room Temperature: Allow the salad to sit at room temperature after cooking; this enhances the flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Zucchini Salad

Grilled Zucchini Salad pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some delicious options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy bread brushed with garlic butter makes an excellent complement to the fresh flavors of the salad.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf adds protein and texture, balancing out the salad’s components nicely.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring an earthy flavor that pairs well with grilled zucchini.
4. Caprese Skewers: These skewers offer a fun presentation while echoing flavors from the salad, featuring mozzarella and basil.
5. Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad can serve as a filling side, providing carbs without overpowering the main dish.
6. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad offers sweetness that contrasts nicely with savory elements in the Grilled Zucchini Salad.
7. Hummus Platter: Pairing with hummus and pita chips creates an appealing appetizer spread full of flavor.
8. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice or beans can be a hearty addition alongside this light salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Grilled Zucchini Salad, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the moisture removal: Failing to remove excess moisture from the zucchini can lead to soggy salad. Patting the zucchini dry with a paper towel helps achieve that perfect grilled texture.
• Overcrowding the grill pan: Cooking too many zucchini pieces at once can prevent them from achieving that nice char. Grill in batches for even cooking.
• Not seasoning properly: Skipping salt or using it too late can result in bland flavors. Make sure to season the zucchini right after grilling for the best taste.
• Using store-bought dressing: A homemade vinaigrette elevates your salad. Instead of grabbing a bottle, whip up your own dressing for freshness and flavor.
• Ignoring fresh herbs: Fresh basil adds a burst of flavor that dried herbs can’t match. Always use fresh herbs just before serving for maximum impact.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Grilled Zucchini Salad in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Keep the dressing separate if possible to maintain freshness.

Freezing Grilled Zucchini Salad

• This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if needed, you can freeze it without the mozzarella and dressing.
• Use freezer-safe containers and consume it within 1 month for optimal taste.

Reheating Grilled Zucchini Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place salad on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, stirring gently until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I add other vegetables to my Grilled Zucchini Salad?

Yes! Feel free to include bell peppers, eggplant, or any seasonal veggies you enjoy.

What type of cheese works best in Grilled Zucchini Salad?

While fresh mozzarella is great, goat cheese or feta can also add delicious flavors.

How do I make my Grilled Zucchini Salad vegan?

Simply omit the cheese or use a plant-based cheese alternative, and ensure your dressing is vegan-friendly.

Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can grill the zucchini and prepare the dressing in advance; just combine before serving.

What goes well with Grilled Zucchini Salad?

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, fish, or as part of a light vegetarian meal.

Final Thoughts

This Grilled Zucchini Salad is not only healthy but also incredibly versatile. With its vibrant colors and fresh ingredients, it’s perfect for summer meals or gatherings. Customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins for endless variations. Try it today and enjoy a refreshing dish that everyone will love!