Grilled Zucchini Salad

This Grilled Zucchini Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or a light dinner at home. With juicy grilled zucchini, colorful tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella, this salad is not only delicious but also healthy. It comes together in under 30 minutes and features fewer than 5 net carbs per serving, making it ideal for keto diets. The homemade red wine vinaigrette ties everything together beautifully, ensuring each bite bursts with flavor.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

PIN THIS!PIN THIS!

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Salad
• For the Dressing
• 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 Dish
• As a Side Dish
• At Picnics and Gatherings
• With Bread
• For Meal Prep
• 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 use other vegetables in Grilled Zucchini Salad?
• How do I customize my Grilled Zucchini Salad?
• Is Grilled Zucchini Salad keto-friendly?
• How can I make this salad vegan?
• Can I prepare Grilled Zucchini Salad ahead of time?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh veggies and mozzarella, this salad offers a nutritious option without sacrificing flavor.
• Versatile Dish: Great as a side or main dish; it pairs well with grilled meats or can stand alone as a refreshing meal.
• Low-Carb Delight: With fewer than 5 net carbs per serving, it’s suitable for those following a keto lifestyle.
• Homemade Vinaigrette: The delightful red wine vinaigrette adds a tangy kick that elevates the entire salad experience.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Grilled Zucchini Salad, gather your tools to streamline the process. Having the right equipment will ensure that everything runs smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill pan or cast iron skillet
• Baking sheet
• Paper towels
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill pan or cast iron skillet: Ideal for achieving those beautiful grill marks on zucchini while keeping the flavors locked in.
• Baking sheet: Perfect for drying out the zucchini before grilling, which helps achieve a better char.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining your dressing ingredients thoroughly for an even flavor distribution.

Ingredients

This Grilled Zucchini Salad with a homemade red wine vinaigrette will be your repeat meal of the summer! This healthy recipe is ready in under 30 minutes, loaded with fresh mozzarella and tender veggies, and has fewer than 5 net carbs.

For the Salad

• 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)

For the Dressing

• 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 ½” thick circles on a bias.
3. Line a baking sheet with a paper towel 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 your grill pan or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and brush it with oil.
2. Grill zucchini in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
3. Cook each piece for 2-3 minutes per side until charred.
4. Once cooked, transfer them onto a plate to cool slightly.

Step 3: Season the Zucchini

1. Sprinkle the top of the cooked zucchini pieces with ¼ teaspoon salt.
2. Toss gently with your hands to evenly distribute the salt.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

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

Step 5: Assemble the Salad

1. On a serving dish, arrange room-temperature grilled zucchini alongside sliced tomatoes and mozzarella slices.
2. Drizzle with vinaigrette (you may not use all of it).
3. Sprinkle torn basil on top along with an additional dash of salt and freshly cracked black pepper.

Enjoy your delicious Grilled Zucchini Salad!

How to Serve Grilled Zucchini Salad

Grilled Zucchini Salad is a versatile dish that can complement various meals or stand out on its own. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

As a Main Dish

• Serve it as a light dinner option, perfect for warm summer nights.
• Pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a balanced meal.

As a Side Dish

• It makes an excellent side for barbecues, complementing grilled meats beautifully.
• Enjoy it alongside pasta dishes for a refreshing contrast.

At Picnics and Gatherings

• Bring this salad to potlucks or picnics; it’s easy to transport and sure to impress.
• Serve it in individual cups for a fun touch at gatherings.

With Bread

• Pair the salad with crusty bread or garlic bread for a satisfying crunch.
• Use it as a topping on toasted bruschetta for an appetizer twist.

For Meal Prep

• Prepare it ahead of time and store in the fridge for quick lunch options throughout the week.
• Top your greens with this salad for added flavor and nutrients.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

PIN THIS!

How to Perfect Grilled Zucchini Salad

Creating the perfect Grilled Zucchini Salad involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure you nail this dish every time.

• Choose fresh zucchini: Look for firm, unblemished zucchinis. Fresh vegetables enhance flavor and texture.
• Grill at the right temperature: Preheat your grill pan well; this helps achieve nice char marks while keeping the zucchini tender.
• Marinate briefly: Consider marinating the zucchini with olive oil and spices before grilling for added flavor.
• Serve immediately: Enjoy the salad soon after preparation for the best taste and texture; fresh ingredients shine when served promptly.
• Customize toppings: Feel free to add nuts or seeds for crunch or different cheeses like feta for a unique twist.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste before serving and adjust salt and pepper according to preference for a personalized flavor profile.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Zucchini Salad

Pairing side dishes with Grilled Zucchini Salad can enhance your meal’s overall experience. Here are some fantastic options to consider:

1. Grilled Chicken: Simple yet flavorful, grilled chicken complements the freshness of the salad perfectly.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: A nutritious grain dish that adds protein and texture, making your meal more filling.
3. Garlic Bread: Crispy and buttery, garlic bread pairs well with salads, providing a delightful crunch.
4. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn offers a delightful contrast in flavor; consider grilling it alongside the zucchini!
5. Roasted Potatoes: Seasoned roasted potatoes bring heartiness to your plate, balancing lighter dishes like salads.
6. Caprese Skewers: Mini mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create an excellent bite-sized starter.
7. Stuffed Peppers: These colorful veggies can be filled with rice, beans, or meat, making them an inviting addition to any meal.
8. Pasta Primavera: A light pasta dish loaded with seasonal vegetables meshes well with your salad’s fresh flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Grilled Zucchini Salad, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Avoiding these will help you achieve the best results.

• Overcrowding the Pan: When grilling zucchini, overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of grilling. Grill in batches for even cooking and a nice char.
• Skipping the Salt: Not salting the zucchini before grilling can result in bland flavors. Sprinkle salt on the zucchini to enhance its natural taste.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Using cold mozzarella or tomatoes can affect the overall temperature of your salad. Allow these ingredients to come to room temperature for the best flavor.
• Rushing the Dressing: Don’t skip emulsifying your dressing properly. A well-mixed vinaigrette ensures every bite is flavorful. Whisk or shake until fully combined.
• Serving Immediately: Serving right after assembly may not allow flavors to meld. Let the salad sit for a few minutes before serving for better taste integration.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Use within 2 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Grilled Zucchini Salad

• Freezing is not recommended due to the texture changes of fresh ingredients.
• If you must freeze, store only grilled zucchini separately.

Reheating Grilled Zucchini Salad

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds until warm, stirring between sessions to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other vegetables in Grilled Zucchini Salad?

Yes! Feel free to add bell peppers, eggplant, or asparagus for extra variety and flavor.

How do I customize my Grilled Zucchini Salad?

You can add nuts, seeds, or different cheese varieties like feta or goat cheese for added texture and taste.

Is Grilled Zucchini Salad keto-friendly?

Absolutely! This salad has fewer than 5 net carbs per serving, making it perfect for keto diets.

How can I make this salad vegan?

To make it vegan, simply omit the mozzarella or replace it with a plant-based alternative.

Can I prepare Grilled Zucchini Salad ahead of time?

Yes! You can grill the zucchini and prepare the dressing in advance. Combine everything just before serving for best results.

Final Thoughts

This Grilled Zucchini Salad is a delightful addition to your summer meals. It’s healthy, refreshing, and incredibly versatile. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins. Try this recipe today and enjoy its vibrant flavors!