Easy Grilled Veggie Salad – Perfect Summer Side Dish

Looking for a vibrant and fresh dish that brings a burst of flavor to your summer meals? This grilled veggie salad is your answer. With a mix of smoky grilled vegetables and a zesty dressing, it’s perfect for barbecues, picnics, or a light lunch at home.

This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to use whatever veggies you have on hand. Whether you’re using zucchini, bell peppers, or corn, each bite will be packed with a delightful taste that singes on the grill.

A Refreshing Grilled Vegetable Salad

This grilled vegetable salad combines the smoky essence of charred zucchini, red and yellow bell peppers, and red onions with the crispness of fresh greens. The vibrant colors create an inviting presentation that is as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.

The grill marks on the vegetables are not just for show; they add a delightful texture and flavor that enhances the overall experience. Tossed together with halved cherry tomatoes, this salad achieves a perfect balance of sweetness and savory notes.

Choosing the Right Vegetables

When crafting this salad, the choice of vegetables plays a pivotal role. Zucchini offers a mild flavor that absorbs the smoky essence from the grill, while the bell peppers add a sweet crunch. Red onions provide a sharp contrast, elevating the dish’s taste profile.

Feel free to mix and match your favorite seasonal vegetables. Corn, eggplant, or even asparagus can be delightful additions, inviting unique flavors and textures into the salad. The versatility ensures that you can create a dish that reflects your personal preferences.

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh, high-quality ingredients is key to achieving a satisfying salad. Select ripe cherry tomatoes for bursts of sweetness. Fresh basil leaves not only enhance the presentation but also add an aromatic touch that complements the grilled vegetables beautifully.

Opt for crisp salad greens to provide a refreshing base. The contrast between the warm grilled vegetables and the cool greens elevates the experience, making each bite enjoyable.

Preparation and Grilling Techniques

Preparing the vegetables for grilling involves simple steps. Tossing them in olive oil, salt, and pepper ensures they are evenly coated and ready for the heat. Preheating the grill is essential for achieving the perfect char and tenderness.

Grilling the vegetables on medium-high heat allows them to cook quickly while developing those coveted grill marks. It typically takes about 5-7 minutes on each side to achieve that ideal balance of tender and slightly crisp.

Creating the Perfect Dressing

The dressing ties the salad together, and making a balsamic vinaigrette is straightforward. Whisking together balsamic vinegar with olive oil creates a rich coating that enhances the flavors of the grilled vegetables.

Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper based on your taste preference. A well-balanced dressing is vital; it should enhance the natural flavors without overpowering them.

Serving Suggestions

This grilled vegetable salad is perfect for a variety of occasions. Serve it as a side dish at barbecues, summer picnics, or as a light main course for lunch. The vibrant colors and fresh flavors are sure to impress your guests.

For an added touch, consider pairing it with grilled chicken or fish for a more substantial meal. This salad shines as a versatile dish that can be adapted for different culinary settings.

A Refreshing Grilled Vegetable Salad

This grilled vegetable salad combines the smoky flavor of charred vegetables with a refreshing vinaigrette. The medley of grilled veggies pairs perfectly with crisp greens, creating a colorful and satisfying dish.

Ingredients

• 2 zucchinis, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into strips
• 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into strips
• 1 red onion, sliced into rings
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 4 cups mixed salad greens
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Toss the sliced zucchinis, bell peppers, and red onion with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Grill the Veggies: Place the vegetables directly on the grill. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are tender and have nice grill marks.
3. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the grilled vegetables, cherry tomatoes, and mixed salad greens.
4. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, remaining olive oil, salt, and pepper.
5. Dress the Salad: Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Nutrition Information

• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories: 150kcal
• Fat: 10g
• Protein: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 12g