This colorful Mediterranean Style Grilled Zucchini Salad is fresh and tasty! With grilled zucchini, juicy tomatoes, and a splash of lemon, it’s a perfect side for any meal.
I love how easy this salad is to make. Just grill the veggies, toss them together, and enjoy! It’s like sunshine on a plate, and it makes even a simple dinner feel special.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh, medium zucchini is essential for this recipe. If you can’t find zucchini, yellow squash works well too. Both have a similar texture and flavor, keeping the dish light and colorful!
Fresh Herbs: Parsley and mint give this salad its Mediterranean flair. If you’re out of fresh mint, try basil or cilantro for a different twist. Dried herbs can be used in a pinch, but fresh really brightens the dish.
Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta adds a salty, creamy component. If you want a dairy-free option, try using vegan feta or leave it out altogether while enhancing flavors with extra herbs.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice adds brightness. If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled juice is fine but can taste less vibrant. You can also substitute with lime juice for a zesty variation.
Garlic: Minced garlic enhances the flavor. If raw garlic is too strong for you, consider roasting it first or using garlic powder, though fresh garlic is always best!
How Do You Grill Zucchini Perfectly?
Grilling zucchini might seem tricky, but it’s simple once you get the hang of it! Start by tossing zucchini slices in olive oil, salt, and pepper. This not only adds flavor but also helps prevent sticking.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat to ensure those beautiful grill marks.
- Add the zucchini slices and leave them be for 3-4 minutes per side. Avoid flipping them too often for the best char.
- Look for tender, slightly crispy edges. If they look soft, they’re done!
- Let them cool a bit before mixing with the herbs and feta, so they don’t wilt the other ingredients.
How to Make Mediterranean Style Grilled Zucchini Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 medium zucchini, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh mint, chopped
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious grilled zucchini salad can be prepared in about 15 minutes, including cooking time. You’ll spend a little time prepping the veggies and seasoning, plus about 8 minutes grilling. It’s quick, fresh, and perfect for a light meal or side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This will give the zucchini those nice grill marks and help cook them evenly. Just a few minutes is all it takes!
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
In a large bowl, toss the zucchini slices with the olive oil, salt, and pepper. Make sure every piece is well-coated so they grill nicely and have great flavor. It’s a simple step that really enhances the taste!
3. Grill the Zucchini:
Place the zucchini slices on the hot grill. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes on each side. You’re looking for them to become tender and to have those lovely grill marks. Flip them gently to avoid breaking the slices.
4. Combine the Ingredients:
Once the zucchini is grilled, remove it from the grill and let it cool slightly. In a large serving bowl, mix together the grilled zucchini, chopped parsley, mint, and minced garlic. This is where all those fresh flavors come together!
5. Add the Finishing Touches:
Drizzle the lemon juice over the salad and toss the ingredients gently so everything is combined well. Finally, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese on top for that creamy, salty finish.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Mediterranean-style grilled zucchini salad is ready! You can serve it warm or let it come to room temperature. It’s a vibrant dish bursting with flavors that everyone will love!
Can I Use Other Vegetables Instead of Zucchini?
Yes, you can absolutely swap zucchini for other vegetables! Bell peppers, eggplant, or asparagus would be great alternatives. Just ensure they are cut into similar sizes for even grilling, and adjust the cooking time as needed based on the vegetable’s tenderness.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Salad?
You can store leftover grilled zucchini salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that the zucchini may become a little softer, but the flavors will still be delicious! To refresh, give it a gentle toss before serving.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can grill the zucchini and prepare the salad, but it’s best to add the feta and lemon juice just before serving to keep everything fresh. You can keep the grilled zucchini in the fridge for up to 2 days before mixing in the rest of the ingredients.
What Can I Substitute for Feta Cheese?
If you need a substitute for feta cheese, try goat cheese or a dairy-free feta to maintain the creaminess. For a nut-free option, crumbled tofu can also work well, giving a similar texture while being vegan-friendly.
