This fresh Mediterranean Style Grilled Zucchini Salad is full of flavor! With grilled zucchini, colorful tomatoes, and a sprinkle of feta cheese, it’s light and tasty.
Perfect as a side dish or a light meal, I love how easy it is to make. Just toss everything together and enjoy—no fuss, just deliciousness on your plate! 🌿
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh medium zucchinis are key for this salad. If you can’t find them, yellow squash is a good alternative. Both will grill nicely and provide that lovely texture.
Olive Oil: I recommend using extra-virgin olive oil for the best flavor. If you need a substitute, avocado oil works well too and has a high smoke point for grilling.
Fresh Herbs: Parsley is a must for a fresh taste. If fresh isn’t available, you can use dried parsley, but use less. Mint adds a nice twist; if you don’t like mint, try basil instead!
Feta Cheese: Feta is traditional, but you could use goat cheese or even a dairy-free cheese for a vegan option. Just crumble it over for that creamy finish.
Garlic: While optional, I love adding garlic for extra flavor. If you prefer a milder taste, try roasting the garlic first or using garlic powder instead.
How Do I Grill Zucchini Perfectly?
Grilling zucchini can be tricky since it can easily become mushy if overcooked. Here are some steps to help you achieve perfect grill marks and tenderness:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures a good sear.
- Slice zucchini into even rounds, about 1/4 inch thick. This helps them cook uniformly.
- Coat the slices with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a large bowl before placing them on the grill. This adds flavor and prevents sticking.
- Grill for 3-4 minutes on each side. You’re looking for nice grill marks; don’t flip too soon!
Let the grilled zucchini cool slightly before mixing them into your salad. It helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
How to Make Mediterranean Style Grilled Zucchini Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 medium zucchinis, sliced into rounds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped (optional)
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook on the grill. You’ll need about 25 minutes total to enjoy this tasty dish that can be served warm or at room temperature!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This is an important step as a hot grill gives your zucchini those lovely grill marks and makes them tender and tasty!
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
In a large bowl, toss the sliced zucchini with the olive oil, salt, and pepper. Make sure every slice is nicely coated for the best flavor. It’s okay to be a little generous with the seasonings!
3. Grill the Zucchini:
Place the zucchini slices directly on the grill. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes on each side. Look for those beautiful grill marks and check that they’re tender when you poke them with a fork.
4. Cool It Down:
Once grilled, remove the zucchini from the grill and let it cool a bit on a plate. This helps them handle easier when mixing!
5. Mix It Up:
In a large serving bowl, combine the grilled zucchini, chopped parsley, optional mint, and minced garlic (if you’re using it). This mix is what brings the Mediterranean vibes to your salad!
6. Dress and Toss:
Next, drizzle the salad with freshly squeezed lemon juice. Toss everything gently to combine the flavors. Be careful not to mash the zucchini!
7. Top It Off:
Finish off your salad by sprinkling the crumbled feta cheese on top. Taste it and add more salt and pepper if needed to suit your flavor preference.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Mediterranean Style Grilled Zucchini Salad is now ready to serve! You can enjoy it warm or let it cool to room temperature. It’s great as a side dish or a light main. Dig in!
Enjoy your Mediterranean Style Grilled Zucchini Salad!
Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Salad?
Absolutely! Grilled bell peppers, eggplant, or cherry tomatoes make great additions or substitutes. Just make sure to cut them to a similar size for even cooking. You may need to adjust the grilling time based on the vegetable used.
What If I Don’t Have Feta Cheese?
No worries! You can use crumbled goat cheese, shredded mozzarella, or even a dairy-free cheese alternative if you prefer. Just choose a cheese that melts well or maintains its shape when mixed in.
How Should I Store Leftover Salad?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the feta cheese separate if possible to maintain its texture. When ready to eat, add fresh parsley and mint to revive the flavors!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can grill the zucchini and prepare the salad components ahead of time! Just keep everything separate until you’re ready to serve. This helps maintain the salad’s freshness and texture when served.
