This Mediterranean Style Grilled Zucchini Salad is fresh and colorful! It features tender grilled zucchini, juicy tomatoes, and tangy feta cheese, making it a perfect side dish.
Whenever I whip this salad up, my kitchen feels like a sunny Greek island! Plus, it’s so easy—just grill, mix, and enjoy. Great for summer BBQs or any meal! 🌞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Medium zucchinis are perfect for grilling. If they aren’t available, summer squash works as a great substitute. Just keep an eye on cooking time, as it might differ slightly.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds a rich flavor. If you’re out, you can use canola or avocado oil instead, but keep the taste difference in mind!
Feta Cheese: Feta gives a tangy flavor. For a dairy-free option, try crumbled tofu or a dairy-free feta. I enjoy adding a sprinkle of parmesan for a twist!
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens up the flavors. If you don’t have fresh lemons, use bottled lemon juice, but fresh is always tastier.
How Do I Get Perfectly Grilled Zucchini?
Grilling zucchini perfectly is all about timing and prep. You want those lovely grill marks without turning them into mush. Here’s how:
- Preheat your grill until it’s hot—this helps create nice char marks.
- Keep zucchini slices uniform at about 1/4-inch to ensure even cooking.
- Brush zucchini with olive oil and season before grilling to lock in flavor.
- Place them on the grill for 3-4 minutes per side; don’t flip too early!
Let them cool slightly before mixing to preserve their shape. Enjoy the deliciousness!
How to Make Mediterranean Style Grilled Zucchini Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- Optional: red pepper flakes for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and around 8-10 minutes to grill the zucchini. You can have this delicious salad ready in about 25 minutes, perfect for a quick and healthy side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by heating your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. It’s important to get it nice and hot so the zucchini can char properly!
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
In a large bowl, combine the sliced zucchini with olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika if you’re using it. Toss everything together until the zucchini slices are well coated with the seasoning mix.
3. Grill the Zucchini:
Place the zucchini slices on the grill in a single layer. Grill them for about 3-4 minutes on each side. You want them to be charred and tender, but still a bit firm. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning!
4. Cool the Zucchini:
Once the zucchini is grilled to perfection, remove it from the grill and let it cool for a minute or two. This helps it hold its shape when you mix everything together.
5. Combine Ingredients:
Transfer the grilled zucchini to a large serving platter. Add in the freshly chopped parsley, crumbled feta cheese, and drizzle the lemon juice over the top. Toss gently to mix everything without breaking the zucchini slices.
6. Add Some Spice (Optional):
If you enjoy a little heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top for garnish. This is totally optional but adds a nice kick!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Mediterranean Style Grilled Zucchini Salad can be served warm or at room temperature. It makes a refreshing side dish or a light meal all on its own. Enjoy the fresh flavors and the beautiful colors!
Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Salad?
Absolutely! While zucchini is the star of this salad, you can mix in other grilled vegetables like bell peppers, eggplant, or asparagus. Just make sure to adjust the grilling time based on the thickness of the vegetables; some may cook faster or slower than zucchini.
How Should I Store Leftover Zucchini Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld together beautifully, but keep in mind that the zucchini may become a bit softer. For the best texture, enjoy within 1-2 days.
Can I Make This Salad in Advance?
Yes, you can prep the zucchini and grill it a few hours ahead of time! Just let it cool down, then combine it with the parsley, feta, and lemon juice right before serving for the freshest taste.
What Can I Substitute for Feta Cheese?
If you’re looking for a substitute, goat cheese or ricotta can work well for a creamy texture. For a dairy-free option, try using crumbled tofu with nutritional yeast sprinkled on top for a cheesy flavor.
