This Mediterranean Style Grilled Zucchini Salad is fresh and colorful, packed with grilled zucchini, juicy tomatoes, and briny olives. Perfect for a sunny day or a nice dinner.
I love how easy it is to whip up. Just grill the zucchini, toss everything together, and you’re ready to impress. It’s like having a little piece of summer on your plate! ☀️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Medium zucchinis are just perfect for this salad. They grill well and absorb flavors easily. If zucchinis aren’t available, you can use yellow squash as a great substitute. Both have a mild taste and will work well with the dressing.
Olive Oil: This adds richness and helps with grilling. Extra virgin olive oil is best for taste. If you need an alternative, avocado oil is a good choice since it also has a high smoke point and subtle flavor.
Fresh Herbs: Parsley gives a fresh touch, while dill adds a unique flavor. If you don’t have dill, try basil or thyme for a different herbaceous note. Don’t skip the herbs, as they brighten up the dish!
Feta Cheese: Feta brings a salty, creamy element. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, crumbled tofu or a nut-based cheese can work well, though the flavor will change somewhat.
Lemon Juice and Zest: These ingredients add a bright, citrusy flavor that balances the salad. If you can’t find fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice will do, but fresh is always best for basil and zest.
How Do I Grill Zucchini Perfectly?
Grilling zucchini can be tricky since it cooks quickly, but with these tips, you can make it perfectly every time. Start by ensuring your grill is hot to get good marks and maintain a tender bite.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat—this helps prevent sticking.
- Cut zucchini into even 1/4-inch rounds for consistent cooking.
- Toss zucchini slices well with olive oil and seasonings to ensure they are coated.
- Cook on one side for 3-4 minutes; don’t flip too soon to develop nice grill marks.
- Check for doneness; they should be tender and have nice char without being mushy.
How to Make Mediterranean Style Grilled Zucchini Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped (optional)
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad will take about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll grill the zucchini for about 8 minutes and then mix everything together for a refreshing dish that’s perfect for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This will help give your zucchini those nice grill marks and the perfect tenderness.
2. Season the Zucchini:
In a large bowl, toss the sliced zucchini with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Make sure all the zucchini slices are evenly coated so they cook well on the grill.
3. Grill the Zucchini:
Place the seasoned zucchini slices on the grill. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until you start to see grill marks and the zucchini is tender. Keep an eye on them to make sure they don’t overcook!
4. Cool the Zucchini:
Once grilled, remove the zucchini from the grill and let it cool slightly. This step is important, as it helps keep the salad fresh and crunchy.
5. Mix the Salad:
In a serving bowl, combine the grilled zucchini, chopped parsley, dill (if you’re using it), crumbled feta cheese, lemon juice, and lemon zest. This combination of flavors is what makes the salad so refreshing!
6. Toss and Serve:
Toss everything gently to mix without breaking the zucchini apart. You can serve it right away for a warm dish, or let it chill in the fridge for a bit. Chilling helps the flavors meld beautifully. Enjoy your Mediterranean style grilled zucchini salad!
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Salad?
Absolutely! While zucchini is the star, you can mix in or substitute other vegetables like bell peppers, eggplant, or even summer squash. Just be sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces for even grilling!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To retain the best texture, avoid overdressing the salad before storing, and add any extra dressing just before serving.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can grill the zucchini a day in advance and mix the salad ingredients right before serving, which allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just keep the grilled zucchini and salad components separate until you’re ready to serve.
What Can I Substitute for Feta Cheese?
If you’re looking for a substitution, crumbled goat cheese works well for a tangy flavor, or you can try a dairy-free feta for a vegan option. Just remember to adjust the seasoning slightly, as different cheeses may vary in saltiness.
