If you’re craving a refreshing and vibrant dish full of sunshine and color, this Grilled Zucchini Salad with Feta, Cherry Tomatoes, and Fresh Herbs Recipe is exactly what you need. It brings together tender, smoky slices of grilled zucchini with juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy feta, and fragrant fresh herbs, all tossed in a zesty balsamic and garlic dressing. This salad strikes the perfect balance between light and satisfying, making it a go-to Mediterranean-inspired favorite that’s as simple to prepare as it is delightful to eat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Grilled Zucchini Salad with Feta, Cherry Tomatoes, and Fresh Herbs Recipe plays a crucial role in flavor and texture. These simple but high-quality components come together to create a symphony of tastes that feels sophisticated yet effortlessly fresh.
- 3 medium zucchinis (sliced lengthwise into 1/4-inch strips): The star of the salad, zucchini adds a tender and slightly smoky base after grilling.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps perfectly char the zucchini for that irresistible grilled flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors of the vegetables.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just a hint of spice to keep things interesting.
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes (halved): Bursts of juicy sweetness that contrast beautifully with the smoky zucchini.
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese: Brings a creamy, tangy finish that lifts the salad to a new level of deliciousness.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil: Offers a fresh and aromatic herbal note that brightens every bite.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Adds a refreshing, slightly peppery touch to round out the herbs.
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar: The perfect tangy base for the dressing.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Provides a subtle kick that enriches the dressing’s flavor complexity.
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (for dressing): Gives the dressing a silky smooth mouthfeel and rich flavor.
- 1 small garlic clove (minced): Adds a fragrant punch that harmonizes with the balsamic and herbs.
How to Make Grilled Zucchini Salad with Feta, Cherry Tomatoes, and Fresh Herbs Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Grill the Zucchini
First, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. This ensures you get those signature grill marks and a hint of smokiness that transforms the zucchini. Brush each slice with olive oil and sprinkle the salt and pepper evenly. Grill the zucchini strips for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they become tender and beautifully charred. This grilling step infuses the zucchini with flavor and texture that’s simply irresistible. Once grilled, set them aside to cool slightly, then chop into bite-sized pieces perfect for a salad.
Step 2: Whisk Together the Dressing
In a small bowl, combine balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, extra virgin olive oil, and minced garlic. Whisk until well blended and slightly emulsified. This dressing is the magic glue that brings the entire salad together, with bright acidity, a gentle tang, and a hint of hearty garlic that wakes up your taste buds.
Step 3: Combine the Salad Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, gently toss together the grilled zucchini pieces with halved cherry tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, chopped basil, and parsley. Pour the dressing over the salad and give everything a gentle toss to coat evenly without breaking up the delicate ingredients. This step is where the flavors mingle and create that perfect balance of smoky, sweet, tangy, and fresh.
How to Serve Grilled Zucchini Salad with Feta, Cherry Tomatoes, and Fresh Herbs Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Grilled Zucchini Salad with Feta, Cherry Tomatoes, and Fresh Herbs Recipe even further, sprinkle extra chopped herbs like basil or parsley on top before serving. You can also add a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil or a few crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. Toasted pine nuts or walnuts add a delightful crunch that complements the soft textures perfectly.
Side Dishes
This salad shines wonderfully as a light main course or as a vibrant side. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or lamb. For a vegetarian meal, serve it alongside warm crusty bread or a grain bowl featuring quinoa or farro. The fresh, Mediterranean flavors make it an easy companion to many summery dishes.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, try layering the salad in glass jars for a picnic or potluck, or serve it on a large platter with whole grilled zucchini slices arranged artistically. Adding edible flowers or thin lemon zest ribbons can bring an extra pop of color and elegance. This salad’s vibrant colors make it a feast for both the palate and the eyes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Grilled Zucchini Salad with Feta, Cherry Tomatoes, and Fresh Herbs Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The flavors actually deepen after sitting, but be aware that the zucchini may soften further. For best texture, store the dressing separately and toss just before serving if possible.
Freezing
This salad is best enjoyed fresh or chilled and is not ideal for freezing because the fresh herbs, tomatoes, and cheese can lose their texture and flavor. To preserve elements like grilled zucchini, freeze them separately without dressing or other fresh ingredients.
Reheating
If you prefer a warm salad, gently reheat just the grilled zucchini pieces in a pan or microwave before adding the fresh tomatoes, herbs, and feta. Reheating the full salad is not recommended, as it can affect the texture of the fresh ingredients and cheese.
FAQs
Can I use another type of cheese instead of feta?
Absolutely! While feta gives that perfect tangy creaminess, goat cheese or ricotta salata can be delicious alternatives. Just choose a cheese that complements the fresh and smoky flavors without overpowering them.
Is it possible to make this salad vegan?
Yes! Simply omit the feta or swap it with a plant-based cheese alternative, and ensure your dressing ingredients align with your dietary preferences. The salad will still be bursting with flavor thanks to the grilled zucchini and fresh herbs.
What if I don’t have a grill or grill pan?
No worries! You can roast the zucchini slices in a hot oven or sauté them in a cast-iron skillet for similar results. The goal is to achieve a slight char and tenderness to bring out those smoky notes.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Definitely! Grilled corn, chickpeas, or avocado make fantastic additions if you want more variety in texture and taste. These additions bring extra heartiness and flavor complexity.
How long does the salad keep its best flavor?
For the freshest taste, enjoy it within 24 to 48 hours of making. The herbs and tomatoes are at their peak early on, and the grilled zucchini softens a bit over time, but the flavors meld delightfully if stored properly.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend trying the Grilled Zucchini Salad with Feta, Cherry Tomatoes, and Fresh Herbs Recipe enough. It captures the very essence of fresh, vibrant Mediterranean cooking with simple ingredients and straightforward prep. Whether you’re looking for a stunning side dish or a light main course, this salad never fails to impress and brings a burst of sunshine to any meal. Go ahead, fire up that grill, and enjoy every bite of this bright, flavorful favorite.
Print
Grilled Zucchini Salad with Feta, Cherry Tomatoes, and Fresh Herbs Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten Free
Description
This Grilled Zucchini Salad is a vibrant and healthy Mediterranean-inspired dish featuring tender, smoky zucchini slices combined with fresh cherry tomatoes, crumbled feta, and fragrant herbs. Tossed in a tangy balsamic vinaigrette with garlic and Dijon mustard, it’s perfect as a light lunch or a refreshing side for summer meals.
Ingredients
Zucchini and Vegetables
- 3 medium zucchinis, sliced lengthwise into 1/4-inch strips
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Seasonings and Oils
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing zucchini)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Dressing
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 small garlic clove, minced
Herbs and Cheese
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Preheat the Grill: Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat to ensure it is hot enough to char the zucchini without sticking.
- Prepare Zucchini: Brush the zucchini slices evenly with olive oil, then season them with salt and black pepper on both sides to enhance flavor during grilling.
- Grill Zucchini: Place zucchini slices on the grill and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side until they are tender and have attractive grill marks; this imparts a smoky flavor.
- Cool and Cut: Remove the grilled zucchini from the grill and allow them to cool slightly before cutting into bite-sized pieces that are easy to eat in the salad.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, extra virgin olive oil, and minced garlic until fully combined and emulsified, creating a flavorful vinaigrette.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the grilled zucchini pieces, halved cherry tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, chopped basil, and parsley to build the salad’s fresh and vibrant base.
- Add Dressing and Toss: Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients and gently toss to coat everything evenly without crushing the vegetables or herbs.
- Serve: Serve the salad immediately to enjoy warm or let it chill slightly in the refrigerator if preferred cold, enhancing the flavors and refreshing qualities.
Notes
- You can add grilled corn, chickpeas, or avocado for extra texture and flavor.
- This salad works well served cold or at room temperature.
