Grilled Zucchini Greek Salad

In this Grilled Zucchini Greek Salad, the vibrant flavors of grilled zucchini take center stage, offering a refreshing and unique twist on the traditional Greek salad. This dish is perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or even as a light dinner. The combination of juicy cherry tomatoes, tangy olives, and creamy feta makes every bite a delightful experience. Plus, it’s an excellent way to enjoy seasonal zucchini!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy and Wholesome: Packed with fresh vegetables and nutritious ingredients, this salad is both satisfying and guilt-free.
• Flavorful Twist: Replacing cucumbers with grilled zucchini adds a smoky depth that elevates the traditional Greek salad.
• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this dish in no time—ideal for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a side dish, a light lunch, or even as a main course topped with grilled chicken or shrimp.
• Perfect for Gatherings: This salad is great for potlucks or backyard barbecues; it’s sure to impress your guests!

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Grilled Zucchini Greek Salad, gather your kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Essential for achieving those perfect grill marks and adding delicious smoky flavor to the zucchini.
• Mixing Bowl: A large bowl allows you to easily toss all ingredients together without making a mess.
• Whisk: Great for combining the dressing ingredients quickly and thoroughly.

Ingredients

In this Zucchini Greek Salad, grilled zucchini replaces the cucumbers for a Greek Salad variation that’s really a treat during zucchini season.

• 2 zucchinis about 10 inches long
• olive oil, to brush on zucchini
• 4 tsp. Greek seasoning
• 1/2 cup Newman’s Own Classic Oil and Vinegar Dressing (see notes)
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, cut in half
• one 6 oz. can pitted black olives, drained and cut in half (see notes)
• 3/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (more or less to taste)
• 1 T dried Greek Oregano
• fresh ground black pepper to taste

How to Make Grilled Zucchini Greek Salad

Step 1: Preheat the Grill

1. Preheat grill to high heat; it should be hot enough that you can only hold your hand there for about a second.

Step 2: Prepare the Zucchini

1. Cut off both ends of the zucchinis.
2. Cut each zucchini into fourths lengthwise (or sixths if they are particularly large).
3. Brush all sides of each zucchini piece with olive oil.

Step 3: Season the Zucchini

1. Sprinkle the white cut sides of the zucchini with Greek seasoning.

Step 4: Grill the Zucchini

1. Lay each piece cut-side down on the grill.
2. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until grill marks appear.
3. Flip over to the second cut side and grill for another 3-4 minutes.
4. Finally, turn them so that the skin side is down and grill until tender-crisp when pierced with a fork.

Step 5: Make the Dressing

1. While grilling, whisk together Newman’s Own dressing and dried oregano in a bowl.

Step 6: Combine Ingredients

1. Once tender, remove zucchini from grill and let cool slightly before cutting into pieces.
2. Place zucchini pieces in a bowl with about one-third of the dressing and toss well.
3. Chop tomatoes, halve olives, and crumble feta cheese while letting the zucchini absorb some dressing.
4. Mix chopped tomatoes and olives into the bowl with zucchini; add more dressing based on your preference.
5. Gently combine in crumbled feta cheese.

Step 7: Serve

1. Season with fresh ground black pepper to taste before serving.

This Grilled Zucchini Greek Salad will surely become a favorite at your table! Enjoy every flavorful bite!

How to Serve Grilled Zucchini Greek Salad

Grilled Zucchini Greek Salad is a vibrant dish that pairs wonderfully with various meals. Its fresh flavors and grilled goodness make it versatile for any occasion.

As a Light Main Course

• This salad can be enjoyed on its own, making it a great option for a light lunch or dinner.

With Grilled Proteins

• Pair the salad with grilled chicken or shrimp. The smoky flavors complement the fresh ingredients beautifully.

As a Picnic Delight

• Pack this salad for your next picnic. It’s easy to transport and serves well cold or at room temperature.

Accompanied by Bread

• Serve it with crusty bread or pita on the side. This adds a nice texture and is perfect for scooping up the salad.

In a Wrap

• Use the salad as a filling in wraps or sandwiches. It adds flavor and freshness to any meal on the go.

How to Perfect Grilled Zucchini Greek Salad

To achieve the best Grilled Zucchini Greek Salad, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose Fresh Zucchini: Look for firm zucchinis without blemishes for the best flavor and texture.
• Grill at High Heat: Preheating your grill ensures you get those beautiful grill marks and enhances the zucchini’s sweetness.
• Season Generously: Don’t skimp on Greek seasoning; it elevates the dish and brings out the Mediterranean flavors.
• Let it Marinate: Allowing the zucchini to absorb dressing before mixing in other ingredients enhances taste.
• Add Fresh Herbs: For extra freshness, sprinkle chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill just before serving.
• Adjust Texture: Aim for tender-crisp zucchini; overcooking can lead to mushiness.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Zucchini Greek Salad

Pairing this salad with complementary side dishes can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Easy to prepare and full of flavor, they pair perfectly with the salad’s freshness.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: A nutritious grain option that adds a hearty component to your meal.
3. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes are an excellent contrast to the soft zucchini.
4. Feta Cheese Bites: Simple yet flavorful; serve them alongside for an extra touch of Greek flair.
5. Hummus Platter: A variety of hummus flavors with veggies provides a healthy, crunchy side.
6. Tzatziki Sauce: This yogurt-based sauce offers a cool counterpart to the warmth of grilled dishes.
7. Stuffed Grape Leaves: These traditional bites add an authentic Mediterranean feel to your meal.
8. Pasta Salad: A light pasta salad tossed in olive oil and herbs complements the fresh ingredients of your salad nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Grilled Zucchini Greek Salad, it’s easy to overlook some key steps that can impact the flavor and texture of your dish. Here are a few common mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season the zucchini before grilling can lead to bland veggies. Always brush the zucchini with olive oil and sprinkle generously with Greek seasoning for maximum flavor.
• Overcooking the zucchini: Cooking zucchini for too long makes it mushy. Aim for tender-crisp texture by grilling only until fork-tender, usually about 10 minutes total.
• Not letting flavors meld: Ignoring resting time after tossing the zucchini with dressing can result in less flavorful salad. Allowing it to sit for a few minutes lets the flavors combine beautifully.
• Choosing low-quality olives: Using poor-quality olives may affect the overall taste. Opt for good quality pitted black olives for that authentic Greek touch in your salad.
• Neglecting fresh ingredients: Using stale or low-quality feta cheese or tomatoes compromises freshness. Select fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Keep your Grilled Zucchini Greek Salad in an airtight container.
• item It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• item Store dressing separately to maintain freshness.

Freezing Grilled Zucchini Greek Salad

• item Freezing is not recommended due to the texture changes in zucchini.
• item Instead, prepare fresh salads as needed during zucchini season.

Reheating Grilled Zucchini Greek Salad

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10 minutes, covered with foil.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in a microwave-safe dish for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Gently heat in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Grilled Zucchini Greek Salad:

Can I add other vegetables to Grilled Zucchini Greek Salad?

Yes! Feel free to include bell peppers, red onions, or even grilled eggplant to enhance flavor.

How do I make this salad vegan?

To make a vegan version of Grilled Zucchini Greek Salad, simply omit the feta cheese or use a plant-based alternative.

What can I serve with Grilled Zucchini Greek Salad?

This salad pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or as part of a Mediterranean platter alongside hummus and pita bread.

Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can grill the zucchini and prepare other ingredients in advance. Mix them just before serving for optimal freshness.

How do I customize my Grilled Zucchini Greek Salad?

You can customize it by adding nuts like walnuts or almonds and different cheeses like goat cheese for added flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Zucchini Greek Salad is a delightful twist on a classic dish that’s perfect for summer gatherings or everyday meals. With its vibrant colors and fresh flavors, this salad is not only nutritious but also highly customizable. Feel free to experiment with different toppings or dressings to suit your taste!