Grilled Zucchini Salad

This Grilled Zucchini Salad with a homemade red wine vinaigrette will be your repeat meal of the summer! Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or a light dinner at home, this healthy recipe is ready in under 30 minutes. It’s loaded with fresh mozzarella and tender veggies while having fewer than 5 net carbs, making it a delightful option for anyone looking to enjoy a refreshing meal.

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Why You’ll Love This Grilled Zucchini Salad

This salad is not only delicious but also versatile and easy to prepare.

• Quick Preparation: This salad can be made in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Fresh Ingredients: Made with vibrant vegetables and creamy mozzarella, it bursts with flavor.
• Low-Carb Option: Ideal for keto diets, this dish aligns well with low-carb eating habits.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a side dish or a main course; it’s great for any occasion.
• Colorful Presentation: The variety of colors from the veggies makes it visually appealing.

Tools and Preparation

To create this grilled zucchini salad efficiently, having the right tools makes all the difference.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill pan or cast iron skillet: Provides even heat distribution for perfectly grilled zucchini.
• Baking sheet: Useful for drying out the zucchini before grilling to enhance texture.
• Mixing bowl or container: Ideal for combining the dressing ingredients thoroughly.

Ingredients

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)

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How to Make Grilled Zucchini Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini

1. Trim ends off of each zucchini.
2. Slice each zucchini into 1⁄2” thick circles on a bias.
3. Line a baking sheet with a paper towel 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 it with oil.
2. Grill zucchini in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, cooking for 2-3 minutes per side until charred.
3. Once cooked, set onto a plate to cool.

Step 3: Season the Zucchini

Sprinkle the top of the cooked zucchini pieces with ¼ teaspoon salt and toss them gently with your hands.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

1. In a mixing bowl or container, combine all dressing ingredients.
2. Whisk together or cover and shake well until emulsified.

Step 5: Assemble the Salad

1. Arrange the room-temperature grilled zucchini on a serving dish along with sliced tomatoes and mozzarella slices.
2. Drizzle with vinaigrette (you may not need all of it).
3. Sprinkle with torn basil and additional salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.

How to Serve Grilled Zucchini Salad

Grilled Zucchini Salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a quick weeknight meal, this salad pairs well with various sides and flavors.

As a Light Main Course

• Serve this salad as a main dish for a light dinner. The fresh mozzarella and zucchini make it filling yet refreshing.

With Grilled Proteins

• Pair the salad with grilled chicken, shrimp, or steak for added protein. The smoky flavors from the grill complement the salad beautifully.

On a Bed of Greens

• Serve the grilled zucchini salad on a bed of mixed greens. This adds extra volume and nutrition while enhancing the presentation.

As an Appetizer

• Use small portions as an appetizer. This makes for an elegant start to your meal, especially at gatherings.

With Crusty Bread

• Accompany the salad with slices of crusty bread. Guests can enjoy dipping it into the dressing or simply savoring it alongside the fresh ingredients.

How to Perfect Grilled Zucchini Salad

Creating a perfect Grilled Zucchini Salad requires attention to detail and some simple tips. Follow these suggestions to elevate your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh zucchini and tomatoes. Their flavors will shine through in your salad.
• Don’t Overcook: Grill zucchini until just charred. Overcooking can make them mushy and less enjoyable.
• Experiment with Herbs: Try adding other herbs like oregano or thyme for different flavor profiles.
• Chill Before Serving: Letting the salad sit for 10-15 minutes allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
• Adjust Seasoning: Always taste and adjust salt and pepper levels before serving to ensure balanced flavors.
• Make Extra Vinaigrette: Having leftover dressing on hand makes it easy to refresh leftovers or use on other salads.

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Best Side Dishes for Grilled Zucchini Salad

This Grilled Zucchini Salad pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its fresh, vibrant flavors. Here are some great options.

1. Garlic Bread: Toasted bread brushed with garlic butter adds a comforting touch.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty quinoa pilaf provides texture and is rich in protein.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add depth and heartiness alongside the salad.
4. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brings out the summer vibes and balances savory elements of the salad.
5. Couscous Salad: A light couscous salad with lemon dressing enhances freshness.
6. Caprese Skewers: Mini skewers of mozzarella, basil, and cherry tomatoes echo the flavors of your main dish.
7. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice or beans create a filling addition to your meal.
8. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad provides a sweet contrast to the savory grilled zucchini salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can enhance your Grilled Zucchini Salad experience. Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for:

• Ignoring moisture: Failing to remove excess moisture from the zucchini can lead to steaming instead of grilling. Always press the zucchini with a paper towel before grilling.
• Overcrowding the grill: Placing too many zucchini slices on the grill at once can prevent proper charring. Grill in batches to ensure even cooking.
• Not seasoning adequately: Skipping salt and pepper can diminish flavor. Season the grilled zucchini well after cooking for the best taste.
• Using dull knives: Slicing tomatoes and mozzarella with a dull knife can result in a messy presentation. Always use a sharp knife for clean cuts.
• Skipping fresh herbs: Neglecting fresh basil or other herbs can make your salad taste flat. Add torn basil leaves just before serving for a burst of flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Grilled Zucchini Salad in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Instructions

• While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftover grilled zucchini separately.
• Place them in a freezer-safe container and consume within 2 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Instructions

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread zucchini on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place zucchini in a microwave-safe dish and cover. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little olive oil. Sauté the zucchini for about 3-4 minutes until heated.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Grilled Zucchini Salad.

Can I use other vegetables in my Grilled Zucchini Salad?

Yes! Feel free to add bell peppers, eggplant, or asparagus to enhance your salad’s flavor and texture.

Is Grilled Zucchini Salad healthy?

Absolutely! This salad is low in carbs, packed with vitamins, and perfect for a light summer meal or side dish.

How can I customize my Grilled Zucchini Salad?

You can customize this salad by adding nuts, different cheeses, or even grilled chicken for added protein.

What dressing works best with Grilled Zucchini Salad?

The homemade red wine vinaigrette is delicious, but you could also try balsamic vinaigrette or lemon juice for different flavors.

Final Thoughts

This Grilled Zucchini Salad is not only quick to prepare but also versatile enough to suit various tastes. Whether you serve it as a light dinner or as an impressive side dish at gatherings, its fresh ingredients shine through. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite veggies or dressings!