As the sun shines bright and summer beckons, there's nothing quite like a refreshing Grilled Vegetable Summer Salad with Mozzarella to elevate your outdoor dining experience! Bursting with vibrant colors and flavors, this Italian-inspired dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delightful medley of grilled zucchini, bell peppers, eggplant, and juicy cherry tomatoes, all brought together with creamy mozzarella and fragrant basil. Ready in just 25 minutes, this salad is the perfect way to impress your guests or simply enjoy a light meal on a warm day. Dive into this recipe and discover how easy it is to create a summer masterpiece that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 eggplant, diced
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella, cubed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables by washing and slicing zucchini into 1/4-inch thick rounds, bell pepper into strips, and eggplant into 1-inch cubes. Ensure cherry tomatoes are washed and left whole.
- Preheat the grill or a grill pan to medium-high heat (around 400°F). Brush the sliced vegetables lightly with olive oil and season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Arrange the vegetables on the grill, starting with eggplant and zucchini. Grill for 3-4 minutes on each side until they develop nice char marks and become tender. Add bell pepper strips during the last 2 minutes of grilling.
- Remove grilled vegetables from heat and let them cool slightly for 5 minutes. Meanwhile, cube the fresh mozzarella into 1/2-inch pieces.
- In a large serving bowl, combine the grilled vegetables and whole cherry tomatoes. Gently fold in the mozzarella cubes.
- Drizzle the remaining olive oil over the salad and sprinkle with additional salt and pepper to taste.
- Tear fresh basil leaves and scatter them over the salad just before serving. Serve warm or at room temperature as a vibrant summer side dish.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: The key to a delicious salad is using the freshest vegetables and mozzarella. Visit your local farmers' market for the best selection!
- Preheat the Grill: Make sure your grill or grill pan is properly preheated to medium-high heat before adding the vegetables. This ensures perfect char marks and enhances the flavor.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Grill: Give each vegetable enough space on the grill to cook evenly. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of grilling, which affects texture.
- Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to the olive oil before brushing it on the vegetables. A sprinkle of garlic powder or Italian seasoning can add an extra layer of flavor.
- Serve at Room Temperature: This salad is delicious warm but also makes a great dish served at room temperature, making it perfect for picnics or potlucks.
- Garnish for Presentation: Don’t skip the fresh basil! Not only does it add a pop of color, but it also enhances the dish's aroma and flavor.
- Pair with a Protein: For a heartier meal, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp to the salad, making it a complete dish that’s satisfying and nutritious.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 230kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 35mg
