Grilled Zucchini Salad

This Grilled Zucchini Salad with homemade red wine vinaigrette is perfect for summer meals! It’s quick, healthy, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or enjoying a light dinner at home, this salad will impress your guests and family alike. Loaded with fresh mozzarella and colorful veggies, it’s a dish you’ll want to savor all season long.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• How to Make Grilled Zucchini Salad
• Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini
• Step 2: Grill the Zucchini
• Step 3: Season the Zucchini
• Step 4: Make the Dressing
• Step 5: Assemble the Salad
• How to Serve Grilled Zucchini Salad
• As a Main Course
• With Grilled Bread
• In Lettuce Wraps
• Topped on Quinoa
• As a Picnic Dish
• How to Perfect Grilled Zucchini Salad
• Best Side Dishes for Grilled Zucchini Salad
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Grilled Zucchini Salad
• Reheating Grilled Zucchini Salad
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I add more vegetables to my Grilled Zucchini Salad?
• How do I make a vegan version of Grilled Zucchini Salad?
• What is the best way to grill zucchini?
• Can I use other types of vinegar in my dressing?
• How long does it take to prepare this Grilled Zucchini Salad?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This salad comes together in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
• Fresh Ingredients: Featuring vibrant zucchini, ripe tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella, each bite is fresh and delicious.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main course or a side dish; it pairs well with grilled meats or as part of a vegetarian spread.
• Low Carb Option: With fewer than 5 net carbs per serving, it fits perfectly into keto and low-carb diets.
• Homemade Vinaigrette: The easy homemade red wine vinaigrette elevates the flavors while keeping the recipe simple.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill pan or cast iron skillet
• Baking sheet
• Paper towels
• Whisk or jar with lid (for dressing)
• Sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill pan or cast iron skillet: Provides even heat for grilling zucchini to perfection while adding those beautiful char marks.
• Baking sheet: Perfect for preparing the zucchini before grilling and helps absorb excess moisture.
• Whisk or jar with lid: Essential for thoroughly mixing the dressing ingredients to create a well-blended vinaigrette.

Ingredients

Ingredients for the Grilled Zucchini Salad include:

• 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)
• 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 ends off of 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 each side for 2–3 minutes until charred.
4. Once cooked, transfer to 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 ensure even seasoning.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

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

Step 5: Assemble the Salad

1. Arrange grilled zucchini and sliced tomatoes on a serving dish.
2. Add slices of mozzarella cheese on top.
3. Drizzle with vinaigrette (you may not need all of it).
4. Sprinkle torn basil leaves along with an additional pinch of salt and freshly cracked black pepper.

Enjoy your delicious Grilled Zucchini Salad, perfect for summer gatherings!

How to Serve Grilled Zucchini Salad

Grilled Zucchini Salad is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a light meal, here are some creative serving suggestions.

As a Main Course

• Serve it as the star of your dinner plate, accompanied by grilled chicken or fish for a balanced meal.

With Grilled Bread

• Pair the salad with slices of grilled ciabatta or sourdough for added texture and flavor.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Use large lettuce leaves as wraps filled with the salad mixture for a fun and low-carb option.

Topped on Quinoa

• Spoon the salad over cooked quinoa for an added protein boost and additional texture.

As a Picnic Dish

• Pack it into containers for an easy and refreshing picnic meal that can be enjoyed chilled.

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How to Perfect Grilled Zucchini Salad

Creating the perfect Grilled Zucchini Salad requires attention to detail. Follow these tips to elevate your dish.

• Choose fresh zucchini: Look for firm, vibrant zucchini without blemishes for the best flavor.
• Preheat your grill: A hot grill helps achieve those beautiful char marks while keeping the zucchini tender.
• Don’t overcrowd the grill: Grill in batches to ensure even cooking and prevent steaming.
• Use high-quality olive oil: A good extra virgin olive oil enhances the flavor of both the zucchini and vinaigrette.
• Add fresh herbs at the end: Incorporate basil right before serving to maintain its bright flavor and color.
• Taste and adjust seasoning: Always taste before serving; you may need more salt or vinegar based on your preference.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Zucchini Salad

To complement your Grilled Zucchini Salad, consider these delightful side dishes. Each one pairs wonderfully with this fresh salad.

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers – Marinated chicken skewers add protein and smoky flavors that go well together.
2. Roasted Sweet Potatoes – Their natural sweetness contrasts nicely with the savory elements of the salad.
3. Caprese Skewers – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil on skewers provide a cohesive Italian theme.
4. Quinoa Pilaf – A light quinoa dish mixed with herbs makes for an excellent grain side option.
5. Garlic Bread – Crisp garlic bread offers a satisfying crunch alongside the fresh salad.
6. Corn on the Cob – Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness and is always popular during summer meals.
7. Stuffed Bell Peppers – Colorful bell peppers stuffed with rice or meat can serve as an attractive main side dish.
8. Mediterranean Couscous – Flavored couscous with olives, feta, and herbs complements the Mediterranean vibe of this salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Grilled Zucchini Salad, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture of the dish. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid.

• Not salting zucchini properly: Failing to sprinkle salt on the zucchini before grilling can lead to excess moisture. Always salt and press them with a paper towel to avoid this issue.
• Overcrowding the grill: Placing too many zucchini slices on the grill pan can cause steaming instead of grilling. Grill in batches for optimal char.
• Skipping the dressing: A salad without dressing lacks flavor. Be sure to whisk up the homemade red wine vinaigrette for a tasty kick.
• Using low-quality ingredients: Fresh vegetables and quality mozzarella are key to this salad’s success. Opt for fresh, in-season produce for best results.
• Serving immediately after cooking: Allowing grilled zucchini to cool slightly enhances its flavor. Let them rest before combining with other ingredients.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store the salad in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Keep dressing separate until ready to serve.

Freezing Grilled Zucchini Salad

• Not recommended: This salad does not freeze well due to the texture changes in zucchini and tomatoes.

Reheating Grilled Zucchini Salad

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat for 5-10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30 seconds at a time, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I add more vegetables to my Grilled Zucchini Salad?

Yes! Feel free to customize with bell peppers, asparagus, or any seasonal veggies you enjoy.

How do I make a vegan version of Grilled Zucchini Salad?

Replace fresh mozzarella with avocado or a dairy-free cheese alternative for a delicious vegan option.

What is the best way to grill zucchini?

Slicing zucchini into thicker rounds helps prevent it from becoming mushy. Use high heat for quick grilling.

Can I use other types of vinegar in my dressing?

Absolutely! While red wine vinegar is great, balsamic or apple cider vinegar will also work well.

How long does it take to prepare this Grilled Zucchini Salad?

The entire process takes about 25 minutes, making it a quick and easy meal option!

Final Thoughts

This Grilled Zucchini Salad is not only refreshing but also versatile, perfect for summer gatherings or light dinners. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins. Give it a try and enjoy this healthy dish!